Substance Abuse

Substance abuse is the chronic and habitual use of a drug, alcohol or any other substance that will eventually pose harm to the body. Studies have shown that a history of abuse among individuals often begins in the early teen years, and for most, this typically starts with alcohol abuse which develops to other forms of substance usage.    

Commonly abused substances include alcohol, prescription and illicit drugs, inhalants, and tobacco.

Reasons for Substance Abuse

There are various reasons why the consumption of drugs or alcohol develops into a full blown dependence. Abuse of drugs and alcohol may start as a way to escape from the problems of life. In younger individuals substance usage may get its start in an effort to conform to peers who also use drugs or drink alcohol.

Studies have shown that some individuals may be genetically predisposed to substance abuse, which is the reason why they easily form a dependence on alcohol or other substances.

Dangers of Drug or Alcohol Abuse

Substance abuse comes loaded with physical, mental, emotional and social consequences. Alcohol abuse will take a toll on the body, especially on the liver. Most alcoholics develop problems such as liver cirrhosis as a consequence of chronic and prolonged alcohol intake. Abuse of drugs predisposes the individual to mental problems, depression, and increased risk for drug overdose, which can be fatal.

Those who abuse illicit substances are also more prone to committing criminal acts such as stealing and robbery in order to continue their habit. Almost all kinds of substances usage will create a strain in the individual's family and social relationships.

Treatment for Substance Dependence

Rehabilitation is the main form of treatment for those suffering from substance abuse. This often starts with intervention from family members or friends or the voluntary enrollment of an abuser into a treatment program. Treatment programs can either be done on an inpatient or an outpatient basis, but those suffering from severe dependencies are often advised to enroll in an inpatient program, where they can be monitored 24 hours a day.

The treatment starts with detoxification followed by counseling sessions with the patient and his or her family. Different programs last for different periods of time, with some as short as a week and others lasting for several months. Medications such as anti-anxiety drugs, anti-convulsants and antidepressants may also be given to reduce the severity of withdrawal.  

Rehabilitation is a constant process. Because there is always a possibility of a relapse, those who have successfully completed a program will still need to undergo sustained and repeated treatment in the form of counseling and group therapy sessions. Movements like AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) and NA (Narcotics Anonymous) are excellent programs that help recovering alcoholics and drug addicts deal with the after-effects of substance abuse and recovery.