Substance Use and Addiction Symptoms, Diagnosis, And Treatment

Substance Use and Addiction: Substance use refers to an unusual pattern of using substances or drugs that can have a severe impact on physical and mental health. Addiction to substances can alter a person's brain and behavior and make them unable to control the use of such chemicals, either legally or illegally, even though they are aware that it causes severe harm to them.

What are Substances?

• Alcohol
• Marijuana
• Sedatives or anti-anxiety drugs
• Methamphetamine
• Cocaine
• Heroin
• Opium
• Hallucinogens
• Inhalants

Addiction to Substances

How Does Addiction Happen?

• How the drug is consumed (e.g., by injection, inhalation, or oral means).
• The speed at which the drug affects your brain's reward system by passing across the blood-brain barrier.
• The time taken by the substance to start working.
• The capacity of the drug to cause tolerance and withdrawal signs.

Factors that Influence Drug Use and Addiction

• Biological factors: The genetic link contributes approximately 50% of an individual's risk of Addiction. Risk factors for drug use and Addiction may also include gender, ethnicity, and the existence of any mental issues.
• Environmental factors : A person's environment includes a wide range of factors, such as their friends and family, their financial situation, and their overall standard of living. A person's risk of becoming addicted can be significantly influenced by peer pressure, physical and sexual abuse, early drug exposure, stress, and parental supervision.
• Developmental factors: Crucial developmental phases in an individual's life can influence Addiction to drugs. Teenagers may be particularly vulnerable because their judgment, self-control, and decision-making are still growing.

Symptoms of Substance Use and Addiction

• Feeling compelled to use the drug frequently.
• Experiencing intense cravings for drugs without showing interest in other things.
• Particular drugs have become increasingly necessary to get relief.
• Taking the substance in greater doses and for a longer time.
• Make sure that you have a sufficient supply of the substance.
• Cutting back on social or recreational activities due to drug usage.
• Please continue using the substance even though it is negatively impacting your health.
• Engaging in desperate actions to get a supply of drugs.
• Engaging in other hazardous tasks while under the influence of substances.
• It took a lot of effort and time to obtain the substance.
• Exhibiting hostile behaviors when not getting the supply of drugs.

Warning Signs of Substance Use

• Physical Indications
• Behavioral Indications
• Psychological Indications
• Eyes with bloodshot and unusually big or small pupils.
• Alterations in eating or sleeping habits.
• Unexpected weight gain or reduction.
• Decline in personal hygiene routines.
• Odd odors come from the body, clothes, or breath.
• Trembling, trouble with balance and verbal communication
• Declines in performance at a job or in school.
• Unexpected financial difficulties.
• Acting in a suspicious or unfriendly manner.
• An unexpected shift in activities, interests, hobbies, etc.
• Unusual shift in personality.
• Unforeseen changes in mood and attitude.
• Instances of anxiety or hyperactivity.
• Lack of motivation.
• Appears lethargic, apprehensive, or depressed.

Diagnosis of Substance Use and Addiction

• Loss of weight
• Ongoing exhaustion
• Red eyes
• Minimal attention to hygiene
• Abnormal variations in blood pressure or heart rate
• Problems sleeping
• Anxiety and depression
• Tendency to remain secluded

Treatment of Substance Use and Addiction

• Detoxification: It is the process of getting rid of specific substances while managing the symptoms of withdrawal.
• Behavioral and cognitive therapy involves group meetings and psychological support systems to bring lifestyle changes.
• Medication assistance: Continued medical support and supervision is implemented for recovery.