What Do Substance Abuse and Addiction Mean?
Substance abuse is when someone uses an illegal drug or misuses a legal one, while addiction starts from this abuse, like using drugs such as marijuana or cocaine.
Using a drug or alcohol doesn’t automatically mean someone has an addiction. For example, smoking pot a few times doesn’t mean a person is addicted, but it can lead to addiction.
People can get hooked on many things. We often think of alcohol or illegal drugs when we hear about addiction. But some people also get addicted to prescribed medicines, cigarettes, or even sniffing glue.
Certain substances are more addictive than others: Drugs like crack or heroin are so addictive that after just one or two uses, a person may lose control.
Addiction is when someone feels they need a drug, even though they know it can lead to bad outcomes. It can affect them physically, mentally, or both.
Physical Addiction
When someone is physically addicted, their body starts needing a specific substance, like vaping, to function. Over time, they build tolerance, meaning they need more of that substance to feel the same effects.
When a person who is physically hooked on something like drugs, alcohol, or nicotine stops using it, they may experience withdrawal symptoms. Common withdrawal signs include diarrhea, shaking, and just feeling terrible overall.
Psychological Addiction
Psychological addiction occurs when the cravings for a drug are emotional or mental. Those who are psychologically addicted often feel a strong urge to get the drug, which may lead them to lie or steal in order to obtain it.
A person crosses from using drugs for fun to addiction when they rely on it to get by. Their life revolves around needing the drug. Whether it’s a physical or mental addiction, they no longer feel like they can choose not to use it.
What Are the Signs of Addiction?
The most obvious sign of addiction is needing a certain drug or substance. However, there are other signs too, like mood changes or weight gain or loss. (But remember, these can also be signs of other issues, like depression or eating disorders.)
Someone might have a problem with drugs or alcohol if they:
Use drugs or alcohol to help forget problems or to relax.
Spend a lot of time trying to find drugs.
Steal or sell belongings to be able to afford drugs.
I tried and couldn’t quit using drugs or drinking.
Feel weak or nauseous when trying to quit.
To achieve the same effect, you'll need to take more of the substance.
Have changes in their sleeping habits, eating habits (including weight loss or gain), or mood (including mood swings, anxiety, anger, or depression).
Develop problems in their relationships with family and friends.
No longer feel excited about things that used to matter.
Do worse at school.
What Can Help With Addiction Recovery?
After you start a treatment program, try these tips to make the road to recovery less bumpy:
Tell your friends about your decision to stop using drugs. True friends will respect your decision. This might mean that you need to find a new group of friends who will be 100% supportive. Unless everyone decides to kick their drug habit at once, you probably won't be able to hang out with the friends you did drugs with.
Ask your friends or family to be ready to support you when you need them. You might need to call someone in the middle of the night just to talk. If you're going through a tough time, don't try to handle things on your own — accept the help your family and friends offer.
Accept invitations only to events that you know won't involve drugs or alcohol. Going to the movies is probably safe, but you may want to skip a Friday night party until you're feeling more secure. Plan activities that don't involve drugs. Go to the movies, try bowling, or take an art class with a friend.
Have a plan about what you'll do if you find yourself in a situation with drugs or alcohol. The temptation will be there sometimes. If you know how you're going to handle it, you'll be OK. Establish a plan with your parents, siblings, or other supportive friends and adults so that if you call or text using a code, they'll know you need a ride out of there.
Remind yourself that having an addiction doesn't make a person bad or weak. If you fall back into old patterns (backslide) a bit, talk to an adult as soon as possible. It's nothing to be ashamed about, but it's important to get help soon so that all the hard work you put into your recovery is not lost
How Can a psychologist help with addiction?
If you’re concerned about a friend dealing with addiction, you can apply these tips to support them. For instance, let your friend know you’re there to listen or lend a helping hand. If you see them struggling again, have an honest conversation about it and ask how you can assist them.
If your friend is slipping back into drugs or drinking and doesn’t want your help, don’t hesitate to reach out to a caring adult, like a parent or school counselor. Helping your friend get support is the best thing you can do.
Above all, provide your friend who's struggling with addiction plenty of support and compliments. Knowing that you care is the kind of encouragement they truly need.
What Helps With Staying Sober?
Recovering from drug or alcohol addiction is not just about completing a 6-week program; it's a lifelong journey. Many find that joining a support group can help them remain sober. There are groups tailored for teens and younger individuals where you can connect with others who have faced similar challenges and engage in honest conversations about drugs that aren't covered in your school's health classes.
Helping others can be one of the best ways to help yourself. By knowing how tough recovery can be, you can better support those struggling with addiction.
If you experience a relapse, it’s important to notice it quickly. Seek help right away to avoid losing the progress you’ve made in your recovery. And remember, if you do relapse, don’t hesitate to reach out for support!
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. At Koott, our experienced Malayali psychologists offer online counseling to support your journey toward recovery. Remember, you’re not alone—get the help you need today!
Comments