In addition to affecting the brain, SUD and addiction can also have physical consequences. Long-term drug use can damage vital organs such as the liver, heart, and lungs. It can also weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections. It’s important to note that while these factors can increase the risk of developing SUD or addiction, they do not guarantee that someone will develop these conditions. Additionally, not everyone who develops SUD or addiction will have experienced all of these risk factors.
DBT’s role in improving emotional resilience
Tolerance, which means that the person needs more of a substance to get a desired effect or the same amount of a substance doesn’t produce the desired effect any longer. Use of the substance is recurrent in situations in which it is physically hazardous (e.g., driving while intoxicated). Important social, occupational or recreational activities are given up or reduced because of use of the substance. Continued use of the substance results in a failure to fulfill major role responsibilities at work, school or home. A great deal of time is spent to obtain, consume and recover from a substance. There is a persistent desire or unsuccessful effort to cut down or control use of the substance.
- The American Psychiatric Association views substance use disorder as a spectrum that ranges from mild misuse to chronic addiction.
- The terms substance use and substance abuse are often confused but represent different levels of involvement with alcohol or drugs.
- Substance use and substance use disorder differ by the frequency of use and the effect on a person’s life.
- Many individuals who struggle with conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) use substances as a way to self-medicate.
Difference Between Substance Use, Abuse and Dependence
Our treatment approach is grounded in evidence-based practices and designed to address the unique needs of each individual. We offer a variety of services to support recovery and promote long-term well-being. Government policies and law enforcement substance use vs abuse strategies play a critical role in preventing substance abuse. Regulations on prescription medications, such as monitoring opioid prescriptions and restricting access to high-risk drugs, help prevent addiction before it starts.
Treatment Options for SUD and Addiction
This behavior disrupts the individual’s life and strains the fabric of the community, manifesting in increased healthcare Sober living house costs, loss of productivity, and a higher incidence of accidents and legal issues. As society evolves, so does the interpretation of substance abuse, broadening to include not just traditional drugs but also newer psychoactive substances and non-substance-related addictions. There are four key mental health disorders that may lead to developing substance abuse disorder. Those are anxiety disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder. People with these mental health disorders may abuse substances as a way to cope and self-medicate.
- These actions can cause bad side effects and might lead to bigger problems.
- The term “addiction” has been somewhat controversial history over the years.
- Misuse is a broader term that encompasses both intentional and unintentional use of a substance or behavior in a way that is not intended or prescribed.
- And don’t forget about prescription drugs – they might come from a pharmacy, but that doesn’t make them any less dangerous when misused.
The importance of setting boundaries in recovery
Clearly laying out the path of substance abuse https://bisschopdeslo.com/how-to-recognize-the-signs-of-a-high-functioning-2/ can inspire an individual to change their destructive habits. This can be something as simple as a honest conversation about drugs and alcohol and where their abuse leads, or something as involved as going to a treatment facility for an instructive session. Either way, the person who abuses needs to understand the all consequences of continued substance use, not just to their bodies, but socially, legally, mentally, and spiritually. Substance use is a broad term that encompasses every instance of using harmful substances such as alcohol, drugs, nicotine, cannabis, or prescription medications.