3 Types of Drug Abuse to Look Out For

Types of drug abuse can be seen across many different socioeconomic and age groups. Millions of people are struggling with addiction, and the numbers are rising yearly. Substance use disorder creates devastating effects on a person and their loved ones. Seeking compassionate drug treatment in Wakefield, MA, can help.

Our Aftermath Addiction Treatment Center team understands what it’s like to struggle with addiction and recovery. We know how difficult it can be, so we provide patients and their families with support and guidance to help them through these trying times. Our programs and therapies are designed to give our clients the best chance at successful recovery and lifelong sobriety. If you or a loved one is in need of drug treatment, contact us at 855-795-1226 today to learn how we can help.

What Is Drug Abuse?

Drug abuse refers to the use of illegal drugs or the use of legal medication for purposes other than their intended use or dosage. This misuse of substances may lead to addiction, which is when someone cannot stop their abuse of substances regardless of its effects on their body and other areas of their life.

Many factors lead to drug abuse and addiction. The following are some risk factors that increase the likelihood that a person may develop a substance use disorder:

• A genetic susceptibility or family history of addiction. It has been observed that genetics can contribute to the likelihood of becoming addicted. Having a family member that abused drugs may also influence someone to turn to drugs, not in a small part due to the trauma associated with having an addiction in the family.
• Experimenting with drugs at a young age. Taking drugs while the brain is still developing may increase the chances of developing an addiction later in life.
• Growing up in a troubled or stressful home environment due to abuse, neglect, or conflict may result in an increased tendency to abuse drugs.
• Experiencing something traumatic can increase the chances of developing a substance use disorder.
• The presence of an undiagnosed mental disorder may lead someone to self-medicate with substances to feel better.

While these risk factors increase the chances of an addiction manifesting, it is not guaranteed. By understanding the signs and symptoms of addiction and knowing the negative consequences of drug abuse, someone may successfully avoid succumbing to substance abuse.

What Are the 3 Types of Drug Abuse To Look Out For?

Many kinds of drugs are being abused, both legal and illegal. Here are the three most dangerous types of drug abuse to be watchful for:

1. Opioids are a class of medications that are prescribed for the treatment of chronic and severe pain. These drugs block the pain receptors in the brain, and taking them results in feelings of euphoria, making them highly addictive and vulnerable to misuse and abuse. The long-term abuse of opioids can lead to many devastating health concerns, including death. Opioids, though legal, are probably the most dangerous form of drugs being abused today.
2. Stimulants, like cocaine and methamphetamine, are illegal drugs that tap into the brain’s reward system to trigger a rush of pleasurable feelings. The long-term abuse of stimulants can lead to severe damage to someone’s brain and body, resulting in death. Apart from this, stimulant abuse has also been associated with violent and erratic behavior, which can harm both the one taking the drug and those around them.
3. It may be surprising to see on this list, but alcohol is considered a central nervous system depressant and a dangerous drug. Alcohol, while legal and widely available, can cause various health issues when abused. Apart from this, accidents caused by intoxication are also a significant cause of injury and death. Alcohol withdrawal can also be highly uncomfortable and sometimes even deadly.

Regardless of the substance, we aim to heal the underlying cause of drug abuse. Addiction treatment is only genuinely successful through therapy and changing negative behavioral patterns.

Get Drug Treatment in Wakefield, MA, at Aftermath Addiction Treatment Center

Here at Aftermath Addiction Treatment Center, we believe recovery is possible with the right treatment plan. Our friendly and compassionate team of addiction experts works closely with our patients and their families to provide treatment that is catered to their unique needs. If you or a loved one is struggling with drug abuse, contact us at 855-795-1226 today to learn how we can help.