The Cycle of Substance Abuse
Substance abuse and addiction are serious problems that can ruin lives. They can be difficult to overcome, but it is possible. Substance abuse has a telltale cycle, and understanding it is one of the ways we can try to break out of it.
Trying the Substance
Some people can experiment with drugs or other activities and walk away without any problems. However, some people develop a physical dependence on the substance or activity. This means that their body becomes used to the drug or activity and they need it to function normally. Physical dependence can lead to addiction.
Substance Abuse
When people develop a physical dependence on a substance, they start using it regularly. They may use it to cope with stress, relax, or feel good. But regular use can quickly turn into abuse. Substance abuse is when you use a substance in ways that are harmful to your health or put you in danger. Abuse can lead to addiction, but not everyone who abuses a substance will become addicted. People who abuse substances often do so to cope with emotional or mental problems that they're trying to escape from or numb the pain of.
Tolerance & Dependence
Addiction is defined as a chronic, relapsing brain disease that causes compulsive drug seeking and use despite harmful consequences. It also is characterized by two things: tolerance and dependence. Tolerance is when the user needs more of the drug to produce the desired effect, and dependence is when the user develops withdrawal symptoms upon cessation of use. Withdrawal is often hugely unpleasant and can even be dangerous.
Substance Use Disorder
Substance use disorders are a serious problem. People with a substance use disorder often find themselves unable to control their use of the drug, even though it has negative consequences in their lives.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, it is important to help as soon as possible. Treatment can help people recover from their substance use disorder and improve their quality of life by addressing both their physical and mental health needs. Some helpful resources to try are American Addiction Centers, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and SAFE Project.
