With the approximately 70,000 people overdosing a year on drugs, the substance abuse epidemic is an issue that must be discussed in the United States. You don’t have to look far to see the dangers of substance abuse. The overdose statistics speak for themselves. However, there are many other dangers of substance abuse that need to be considered, as well. Let’s take a closer look at this topic.
Substance Abuse Defined
What is substance use? Some people may think it just involves someone using heroin, fentanyl, or crack in large quantities. We tend to think of the worse drugs when we think of substance abuse, but it merely involves using a drug (or alcohol) in a way that is harmful to you or illegal. One example involves using prescription pain medication in ways not prescribed, like injecting it. In addition, if you overuse the medication, you are abusing it too. Another way to abuse a legal drug is to get it illegally by getting it from a friend or buying it off the street. Finally, there are illegal substances such as heroin, crack, cocaine, and so on. The use of these substances is considered substance abuse because there isn’t any legal use for them.
The Dangers Of Substance Abuse
Although there are several dangers of substance abuse, it is challenging quitting. However, knowing the dangers of substance abuse may help people seek treatment. One of the biggest dangers of abusing a substance is that you could overdose. When you buy drugs from the streets, you don’t know what you’re getting. People mix in other drugs such as fentanyl, which is highly toxic. Also, overdose can occur when you mix any substance with other drugs or alcohol. There are long-term dangers of substance abuse as well. Every drug has different risks and dangers, but some of the main ones include:
- Kidney damage
- Liver disease
- Heart attack
- Cancer
- Stroke
The list of effects to your health is extensive, which makes seeking treatment a high priority.
Find Peace At Promises Today
Promises Treatment Center offers help and hope for people who are struggling with substance use. You can find the healing from the effects of substance abuse by participating in one of our evidence-based programs. Meet our caring therapists when you walk through the door of therapy. They will begin the admissions process by administering an evaluation and then personalizing a treatment plan for you. We provide a broad range of therapy programs and treatments to ensure everyone has a plan to suit them. Some of these programs include:
- 12- step program
- Individual therapy
- Nutritional therapy program
- Group therapy
- Dialectical behavioral therapy program
Don’t wait until substance abuse interferes with your happiness in life. You can overcome the addiction in your life. Now that you the dangers of substance abuse, reach out for the help you need at a quality rehab center. Contact us today at 844.875.5609, and we’ll be ready to lead you on the pathway to a brighter future!