Drug dependence

Substance abuse is a condition in which a person recognizes that the continued use of drugs and alcohol is detrimental to their health, but they have no way to stop using because their body is dependent on it. Without a doubt, any type of substance abuse is something that needs to be taken care of immediately. Doing so could help to protect a person from an overdose or the negative health consequences that typically come from continued use. Understanding the types of substance abuse may help you know when to seek help for your loved one.

America’s Rehab Campuses offer a range of treatment options to help you or your loved one. Consider our inpatient treatment programs to help you work on recovery from what you’re facing.

Types of Substance Abuse

There are various ways to break down the various types of substance abuse. However, there are four main types that you should understand. No matter if you use substances on a daily basis or not, understand that risks exist that could put your health on the line. Don’t overlook any of these risks.

Alcohol

It is estimated that 14.5 million people over the age of 12 in the United States suffered from alcohol use disorder in 2019. Alcohol is one of the easiest substances to obtain, and, in many cases, it is thought of as a “safe” drug to use. It is commonly referred to as a good way to relax and unwind. Yet, it carries a very high risk of addiction in some people. Using alcohol on a daily basis, especially if you are drinking more than one alcoholic beverage at a time, can be dangerous and it can lead to dependence.

Prescription Medications

Some people struggle from addiction to prescription medications. They may develop these addictions through no fault of their own. For example, the use of prescription opioids can put a person at risk for addiction if they misuse these substances. Prescription medications for pain, anxiety, seizures, and other conditions can lead to addiction if misused outside of the prescription doctors prescribe. Yet, this is a significant risk to the health of many individuals.

Illicit Drugs

Illicit drugs make up a large portion of what many people recognize as a substance use disorder. These are drugs that are illegal to use and, when used on a consistent basis, can create powerful dependence and addiction. Some examples include heroin, cocaine, meth, hallucinogens, ketamine, inhalants, and ecstasy, among others. A person using these drugs is at a high risk of health complications and risks. Often, these drugs are mixed with others, such as heroin being mixed with the highly potent drug fentanyl. This can create an even higher risk for overdose.

Tobacco

Tobacco is an addictive substance as well. Though it may be readily available to many people, it can create numerous health complications, and it can create dependence. A person who uses tobacco products may not realize they are at risk for addiction, but it is not uncommon for it to occur. Keep in mind that even vaping can lead to these types of health complications.

Finding Help No Matter What You Are Facing

For people with drug and alcohol addiction, it is hard to stop using on your own. You may even find it impossible. That is a clear indication that a substance use disorder is occurring. No matter what you think about drugs, from alcohol and marijuana to the use of heroin and hallucinogens, there are risks to continued use of these substances that could cause you to lose your life.

America’s Rehab Campuses wants to help you find the best way forward. Our team offers a comprehensive assessment to help you better understand if you are at risk for addiction and dependence and, if so, what steps you can take to overcome those challenges. Reach out to our team today to learn more about the treatment programs we offer, including a comprehensive medical detox program. You can also find out about our inpatient and outpatient treatment programs designed to support you at the level of care you need.

Call us now to speak to our qualified professionals. Let us put you on the path toward recovery.