Substance Abuse: Drug Addiction Facts

Sushma Hegde



Substance abuse is defined as the excessive use of a substance, especially alcohol or a drug. Substance abuse is a pandemic in the United States. From the abuse of seemingly innocent substances such as marijuana and alcohol to the abuse of street drugs like cocaine and heroin, substance abuse costs individuals substantially, and it costs the nation as a whole.

According to WebMD, abused substances produce some form of intoxication that alters judgment, perception, attention, or physical control. While various street drugs are known to be dangerous, such as heroin and crystal meth, prescription drugs are often viewed in a more favorable light, due to their status as being doctor-prescribed. Though many believe these drugs are “safer” as a result, they can be as addictive as heroin.

The many different types and classifications of drugs produce a variety of short-term effects, but the most common ones include increased heart rate, high blood pressure, dizziness, tremors, mood changes and paranoia.

In the long-term, substance abuse may lead to mental and physical effects that will require treatment to resolve. These effects can include; paranoia, psychosis, immune deficiencies and organ damage.

While substance abuse comes with many side effects, ranging from mild physical side effects like nausea and dehydration to work-related consequences such as reduced productivity, one of the greatest risks of substance abuse is dependence.

Most people who struggle with drug addiction face the issue of tolerance buildup. After continuous use, the body becomes less and less stimulated by the drug. This may cause a person to begin using higher dosages to obtain the same high. This will lead to drug overdose.

Signs and symptoms of a drug overdose include:
1. Losing consciousness.
2. Fever or sweating.
3. Breathing problems.
4. Abnormal pulse.
5. Change in skin color.

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Rehab and addiction treatment options

A doctor can help each individual find the right rehabilitation or treatment option. The setting is determined by individual needs, so some people may benefit from an inpatient rehab, while others may thrive by using an outpatient program.

At the core, the goal is to help a former addict assimilate into a drug-free life as easily as possible.

The most commonly used treatment options for addiction include:
1. Psychotherapy, which helps patients learn how to resist and redirect compulsions.
2. Support groups
3. Individual counseling