The U.S. is seeing a rising trend in the abuse of illicit Drugs. In recent years, substance abuse prevention programs and various forms of treatment are being worked on to curb this crisis. One provider of such treatment, United Recovery Project, talked to us about the dangers hiding in the ongoing crisis and what are the solutions for those who need help.
If you feel like you are suffering from Drug addiction or a dual diagnosis, know that there are many paths that you can take on your road to recovery. If you or a loved one is faced with Drug-related issues you need a clear understanding of addiction, its risk factors, and treatments. Read more at unitedrecoveryca.com
Health Impact of Substance Abuse
Illicit Drug use does not only pose the risk of injury, toxicity, and overdose but also a slew of health issues. Using illegal Drugs can change your appearance through hair loss, deteriorating skin, and malnutrition. It can also stunt your physical growth if you suffer from Opiod Drug addiction from an early age..
While the short-term dangers are not to neglect, long-term substance abuse can also severely affect your health. It may cause irregular heartbeat, respiratory issues, nasal infections, nosebleeds, and digestive issues, depending on what, how and when you are taking.
It is never too late to seek treatment options for substance-related issues and many medically assisted treatment options can aid you in the process.
Who is Using Drugs?
According to many new-age research articles, genetics are the first leading risk factor for potential Drug addiction. Environmental factors such as peer pressure, poor education, and unstable home situations impact the probability of Drug-seeking behavior in a person.
Finally, people with mental health issues are statistically more prone to substance abuse disorders compared to others because of the stigma and lack of understanding of many conditions related to mental health and behaviors.
Some people would use illegal Drugs or abuse prescription Drugs as a means to self-medicate. This can be due to stress, ongoing health conditions, badly managed chronic pain or lack of healthier coping mechanisms.
Rates of Drug use in the U.S.
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 11.7% of the U.S. population used Drugs in the year 2021. In the epidemiology of substance use, the highest percentage of Drug users were young adults aged 18-25. This was followed by adults aged 26 and up and then by adolescents aged 12-17.
The most common Drugs used by people in the U.S. are methamphetamines, prescription stimulants, and marijuana. Nearly 35% of people in California use marijuana. Other common Drugs include prescription painkillers and sedatives, heroin, and cocaine.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse
In many individuals, we can see both substance use disorders and mental health issues such as depression, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. This is called a dual diagnosis or a co-occurring disorder where the two aspects of the disorder are closely linked. Both have various unique impacts on the individual and affect their interpersonal relationships, school or work, home life, health, and more.
According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, 53% of people who have substance abuse disorders are suffering from severe mental health issues.
Such disorders can be very complicated and can pose difficulties for mental health and addiction treatment providers. However, there are many treatment options and treatment providers who specialize in dual diagnosis cases. The future of substance abuse and mental health treatment is very promising as more and more people are making the link between mental illness and the use of illicit Drugs.
Key Culprits: Opioids, Antidepressants, and Antibiotics
Substance abuse issues do not only arise from the use of illegal Drugs. Americans face a huge issue with the abuse of prescription Drugs, especially opioids, antidepressants, and antibiotics. Patients are often over-prescribed Drugs which can become addictive.
Out of these, opioids pose the most significant issue. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that 75,673 people died from opioid Drug overdoses in 2021. This number has increased by over 50,000 since the year before. In California, 3.2 out of every 100,000 deaths are from prescription opioid overdoses.
Some centers specifically cater to people who suffer from prescription Drug abuse and can help you and your loved ones. In addition, finding a dual diagnosis treatment center, such as the United Recovery Project service in California, will assist you in putting any mental health conditions under control alongside your addiction.
Finding Drug Rehab for Yourself or a Loved One
Taking the step to start rehab for yourself or your loved one can be very difficult but it is extremely necessary. It is important to treat the situation with empathy, understanding, and encouragement when beginning treatment. Drug use disorders are not a choice and they cause great damage to affected individuals. The victims of Drug abuse need a secure and safe support system that they can find in rehab treatment options.
There are options for opioid treatment programs, prescription Drug rehab, medically assisted treatment options, and much more. Government programs and free treatment options are also available for everyone.
If you are looking for treatment options, that show great resolve and determination. You have already taken the initial steps to achieve your health and lifestyle goals by looking into this article.
Summary
Knowledge of Drug abuse, its causes, and treatment options is necessary when seeking help for yourself or a loved one. The U.S. is seeing a rising need for medically-assisted addiction treatment and many professionals and organizations offer these services.
Although, many individual factors make a person more prone to Drug abuse but genetics, environment, and mental health also play a big role, and a large population of people in the U.S. is using illegal Drugs, with adolescents being at high risk for Drug abuse disorders, treatment centers in the country are quickly catching up and offer suitable dual diagnosis treatment options.
Seeking rehab for yourself or a loved one is a big step that you must take to help with substance abuse disorders. There are many options available to help you achieve your goals.
