Overview
People begin to use drugs for different reasons. One person might start drinking because she feels pressure from her friends and another might try taking prescription drugs to deal with stress. Drug use turns into abuse when the person uses too much, too often and continues to use despite negative consequences.
Signs and Symptoms
Helpguide.org reports that someone who’s abusing drugs is more likely to neglect responsibilities, suffer legal consequences due to drug use and have problems in their relationships. A person who abuses drugs is more concerned with obtaining the drugs and using than other priorities. For instance, he might use the money he has saved for monthly bills to buy drugs knowing that he won’t be able to pay the electric or phone bill on time. He’ll probably become defensive when friends and family members approach him about his change in behavior and concerns. He might isolate himself and suffer negative consequences at work.
Considerations
Some people become addicted to drugs after using only a couple times whereas other people use drugs for a couple months and then stop. There are many factors why some people become addicted and others don’t. A family history of addiction, other mental health issues, history of abuse or trauma, and early drug use all increase a person’s chance of becoming addicted.
Misconceptions
Drug addiction is not voluntary, according to The Partnership for a Drug-Free America. At first, it’s the person’s choice to begin using; however, over time the person’s brain chemistry changes leaving her addicted to the drug and craving the drug. Some people believe that after a period of rehabilitation, people should be cured of their drug addiction. However, drug addiction, like many other mental illnesses, is a life-long battle, and many people require repeated treatments.
Treatment
Detoxification; short and long-term rehabilitation; individual, family and group counseling; twelve-step programs; and support groups are all forms of treatment for drug abuse. If you use illegal drugs, but you’re not addicted to them, you might be able to stop using without professional treatment, especially if you stop in the early stages of drug use. Many people need professional treatment to overcome drug abuse and maintain sobriety. Each person’s treatment needs are different and depends on the type of drug the person abuses, how much and how often the person uses, if the person is dependent on the drug, other mental health issues such as depression, and family support.
Teen Substance Abuse
By nature, teens are impulsive, so they’re more likely than adults to try drinking or drugs without thinking about the consequences. Parents and teachers should be aware and look out for signs of drug use among teens. A teen who’s abusing drugs will probably earn lower grades than usual, isolate himself from his parents, have a decline in personal hygiene and have an increase in health problems.
About this Author
Michelle Bolyn is a licensed mental health professional and has worked since 2006 as a therapist. Bolyn has been writing mental health, wedding-related and relationship focused articles since 2007. She is published on Suite101.com and Examiner.com. Bolyn received her Master’s Degree in Social Work from New York University.
