What is Drug Abuse? Dangers, Effects on Brain, & Treatment

What is Drug Abuse?

Addiction is a brain and behavioral disease. When you’re addicted to drugs, you can’t stop using them even if they harm you. Getting treatment early is crucial to avoid severe consequences. It’s not just about illegal drugs like heroin, as you can get addicted to legal things like alcohol, nicotine, or prescription medications.

Opioid addiction, in particular, is a widespread issue, contributing to many overdose deaths. Initially, you might use a drug because it feels good, thinking you can control it. However, over time, drugs alter your brain, making you lose control and engage in harmful behaviors.

At We Level Up New Jersey, we work hard to create an environment and uphold standards of care for the success of each client. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today to learn more about overcoming addiction with our detox and addiction treatment program and for further drug abuse resources and information. Call today for a hassle-free evaluation.

Abusing Drugs Vs. Misuse and Tolerance

Drug misuse is misusing legal or illegal substances, like taking more pills than prescribed or using someone else’s prescription. It’s often driven by a desire to feel good, manage stress, or escape reality. However, people can usually change these habits or quit.

On the other hand, addiction or drug abuse is when you can’t stop using, even if it harms your health or causes problems for you and your loved ones. The urge for drugs can consume your every moment, making it difficult to quit. Addiction is distinct from physical dependence or tolerance, where withdrawal symptoms occur when you suddenly stop a substance or when a dose becomes less effective over time. Just because you develop tolerance or dependence, especially under proper medical supervision, doesn’t necessarily mean you’re addicted. Addiction is relatively rare in such cases.

Abuse of drugs can be critical to talk about because there’s often confusion around what develops substance misuse, dependency, and addiction. This is partly why the most recent edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) advises using the term “substance use disorder” or SUD. This classification includes more diagnostic criteria to help healthcare professionals distinguish between mild, moderate, and severe cases.

Drug Abuse Effects on Your Brain

Your brain likes things that make you feel good and wants you to do them more. Addictive drugs mess with this system, releasing a chemical called dopamine that makes you happy. You keep using the drug to feel that pleasure. But with time, your brain gets used to it, so you need more of the drug for the same happiness. Other enjoyable things in life may seem less fun now.

According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine, addiction is “a primary, chronic disease of brain reward, motivation, memory, and related circuitry.” Addiction can be characterized by numerous physical and psychological signs, which often include the following:

• An inability to abstain from use for a prolonged time.
• Impaired behavioral controls as addicted individuals will violate social norms to seek out the subject of addiction.
• Diminished recognition of problematic actions, especially in interpersonal situations.
• Inappropriate or dysfunctional behavior.

Why are People Abusing Drugs?

Drugs can offer intense feelings of pleasure. This initial euphoria is followed by other effects, which vary on the type of drug used. For instance, with stimulants such as cocaine, the euphoria is followed by feelings of power, self-confidence, and boosted energy. In contrast, the euphoria caused by opioids such as heroin is followed by feelings of relaxation and satisfaction. Some people who grieve from social anxiety, stress, and depression start using drugs to feel less anxious. Stress can play a significant role in initiating and continuing drug use and relapse in patients recovering from addiction.

Some people feel pressure to improve their focus in school or at work or their abilities in sports. This can play a role in trying or continuing to use drugs, such as prescription stimulants or cocaine.

Teens are particularly at risk of using drugs due to hostile surroundings because peer pressure can be extreme. They can also be pushed by peer pressure to use illicit drugs. Adolescence is a developmental period during which risk factors, such as peers who use drugs, may lead to substance use. Early use may cause severe addiction until you become an adult, and if left untreated, addiction can cause problematic life.

Common Risk Factors of Drug Abuse

Everyone’s body and brain are unique, and how they react to drugs varies. Some enjoy the first experience and crave more, while others dislike it and never try again.

Other common risk factors of addiction may include the following:

• Stress: Feeling overwhelmed or stressed can increase the risk of drug abuse.
• Mental Health: Conditions like depression and anxiety can be risk factors.
• Family History: A family history of substance abuse may contribute to the risk.
• Peer Pressure: Influence from friends or peers to use drugs is a common risk.
• Lack of Parental Supervision: Limited parental involvement can be a factor.
• Trauma: Past traumatic experiences may contribute to drug abuse risk.
• Early Exposure: Starting drug use at a young age can increase vulnerability.
• Genetics: Genetic factors may play a role in susceptibility to drug abuse.
• Lack of Coping Skills: Inability to cope with life’s challenges may lead to drug use.
• Poor Academic Performance: Struggling in school can be associated with drug abuse risk.

Signs of Drug Abuse Chart

If someone uses a drug often, they can become tolerant, needing more for the same effect. Tolerance increases overdose risk, which can be deadly. Here’s a simple table outlining signs of drug abuse from mild to severe:

Mild Signs	Moderate Signs	Severe Signs
Increased tolerance	Changes in social behavior	Legal problems
Mood swings	Neglecting responsibilities	Financial difficulties
Changes in sleep patterns	Decline in personal hygiene	Physical health deterioration
Loss of interest in hobbies	Relationship issues	Cognitive impairment
Secretive behavior	Noticeable weight loss/gain	Violent or erratic behavior
Defensive when questioned	Frequent accidents or injuries	Hallucinations or paranoia
Isolation from friends and family	Job loss or academic decline	Overdose

Guide to Signs of Drug Abuse

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Learn More:

• Addiction Counseling Near Me for Drugs and Alcohol Treatment
• Drug and Alcohol Assessment. Find Drug and Alcohol Assessment Near Me. What Should You Expect in an Alcohol and Drug Assessment?
• Inpatient Drug Rehab. Search for Inpatient Drug Rehab Near Me. Benefits of Drug Rehab Inpatient. Drug Inpatient Rehab Programs. Inpatient Drug Rehabs Complete Levels of Care.
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• How to Pass a Drug Test? How People Try to Beat Drug Testing. How to Pass a Mouth Swab Drug Test. How to Pass a Drug Test for Weed? How to Pass a Drug Test for Meth?
• We Level Up Alcohol Detox NJ. Medical Detox for Alcohol. How To Detox Alcoholic? Most Common to Severe Symptoms of Detox from Alcohol. Finding Alcohol Detox Near Me.
• Prescription Drug Addiction, Types, Symptoms, and Causes
• Prescription Pill Detox and Medications
• Top Signs of Drug Abuse
• Effective CBT Therapy for Addiction

Using drugs can harm your health, relationships, jobs, and education. If you or someone you know is facing issues with drugs, acknowledging the problem is the first step toward getting help. Drug dependence or addiction can be treated, and seeking support is crucial. Remember, you don’t have to face it alone—reach out for help.

What are Drugs of Abuse?

People from different backgrounds use illicit drugs, and factors like cultural background, location, and income may influence the choice of drug. In the US, there are laws regarding drug use, production, possession, selling, and driving under the influence of drugs.

Breaking these laws can result in penalties such as fines, disqualification from driving, or imprisonment. It’s essential to be aware of the legal consequences associated with illicit drug involvement to avoid potential troubles.

Here’s an overview of different drugs of abuse:

Commonly Abused Drugs Category	Examples
Stimulants	Cocaine, Methamphetamine
Painkillers	Opioids (e.g., OxyContin)
Sleeping Aids	Benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax)
Illicit Drugs	Marijuana, Heroin
Other	MDMA (Ecstasy), LSD

Commonly abused drugs, like opioids (painkillers, heroin), stimulants (cocaine, methamphetamine), and marijuana, are often misused, causing various physical and mental problems. While some seek euphoria from opioids, the risk of addiction and overdose is dangerous and severe. Stimulants may provide temporary energy and alertness, but prolonged use can lead to serious health issues. Despite growing acceptance, even marijuana misuse can impact cognitive function and mental health.

Get drug abuse treatment that works. Find professional help from We Level Up NJ’s substance use disorder and mental health therapists. Start getting support with a free call to our drug abuse hotline 24/7.

Tips to Prevent Prescription Drug Abuse

If you take your pain medicine as your doctor advises, it’s unlikely you’ll become addicted, even with long-term use. Don’t let worries about addiction stop you from using narcotics for pain relief, but be cautious. If you’ve had past issues with drugs or alcohol or have family members who have, your risk may be higher.

To avoid prescription drug addiction:

• Follow your doctor’s instructions strictly.
• Use pain medicine only as prescribed.
• Don’t increase doses without consulting your doctor.
• Be aware of your medication’s potential for dependence.
• Communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your pain and concerns.
• If you’ve had substance abuse issues, inform your doctor.
• Store medications securely to prevent misuse.
• Dispose of unused medicines properly.
• Explore alternative pain management strategies.
• Seek support or counseling if you have concerns about dependency.

It’s normal for your body to get used to pain medication, requiring higher doses for the same relief. This doesn’t mean you’re addicted. However, if you need more but not for pain relief, discuss it with your doctor.

Get Drug Abuse Treatment Today

If your drug use is causing issues, talk to your doctor. Overcoming drug addiction takes time. While there’s no cure, treatment, which may involve counseling, medication, or both, can help you stop using drugs and stay drug-free. Work with an addiction treatment professional to find the best plan for you.

If you experience any of the following signs, seeking help from a doctor or healthcare professional is crucial for addressing addiction issues.

• Loss of Control: If you find it challenging to control your drug use despite wanting to cut down or quit.
• Impact on Daily Life: When drug use interferes with your daily activities, relationships, work, or school.
• Health Issues: If you’re experiencing physical or mental health problems related to drug use.
• Cravings: Intense cravings or urges for the drug are a sign that professional help may be needed.
• Failed Attempts to Quit: If you’ve tried to quit independently but haven’t succeeded.
• Relationship Strain: When your relationships are strained or breaking down due to your drug use.
• Legal Issues: Involvement in legal problems related to drug use.
• Financial Struggles: If your finances are suffering due to spending on drugs.
• A decline in Functioning: A noticeable decline in overall functioning and well-being.
• Concerns from Others: When friends or family express concern about your drug use.

If you or someone you know has taken a drug and experience the following symptoms, Seek emergency help immediately and call 911.

• Showing overdose symptoms.
• Shows changes in consciousness.
• Has trouble breathing.
• Has seizures or convulsions.
• Shows signs of a possible heart attack, like chest pain or pressure.
• Experiencing any other concerning physical or psychological reaction.

Are you searching for “drug abuse treatment centers near me?” Or do you have questions about addiction treatment in general? Call We Level Up New Jersey helpline to speak with a compassionate drug abuse counselor 24/7.

Drug Overdose Causes

Drug overdoses can happen accidentally or intentionally when someone takes more than the recommended dose. Some individuals may be more sensitive to certain medications, making even a medically acceptable dose too much for their bodies. Illicit drugs, used for a high, may lead to overdose if the body can’t detoxify fast enough.

Poisonings, caused by exposure to harmful substances like chemicals or plants, worsen with higher doses or more prolonged exposure, as seen in examples like carbon monoxide or mushroom poisoning.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Drug overdoses happen accidentally through either a child or mentally impaired adult taking accessible medication. Adults, especially seniors or those on multiple medications, might mistakenly take the wrong one or the wrong dose. Intentional overdoses occur for desired effects, like getting high or self-harm.

Young children may accidentally swallow drugs due to their curiosity and tendency to put things in their mouths, especially between 6 months and three years old. Overdoses in this age group often occur when medications are left within their reach. Adolescents and adults are more likely to overdose intentionally, potentially as a suicide attempt, often associated with mental health conditions, diagnosed or undiagnosed.

Drug Overdose Symptoms

Signs of a drug overdose can vary depending on the substance involved. Common symptoms include:

• Altered Mental State: Confusion, extreme drowsiness, or difficulty staying awake.
• Breathing Issues: Shallow or difficulty breathing, difficulty breathing, or complete cessation of breathing.
• Changes in Heart Rate: Rapid or slowed heartbeat.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Persistent vomiting or uncontrollable nausea.
• Seizures: Uncontrolled convulsions or seizures.
• Dizziness and Fainting: Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or fainting.
• Unresponsiveness: Inability to wake up or respond to stimuli.
• Bluish or Pale Skin: Cyanosis or paleness of the skin, particularly around the lips or fingertips.

If you think there’s a drug overdose, act quickly and get emergency help. Time is crucial, as symptoms can worsen fast. Emergency professionals can give the proper treatment, like antidotes, breathing support, and stabilizing vital signs. Waiting can lead to severe problems or even death. If you suspect a drug overdose, seek emergency medical help immediately to save lives.

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What are the Risks of Drug Abuse?

Substance abuse can pose significant threats to wellness, happiness, stability, and health. The more you know about the effects of drug abuse, the better positioned you are to both recognize and adequately cope with signs of drug abuse in those you love – or in yourself.

Some common risks include the following:

• Health Issues: Drug abuse can lead to severe health problems, including cardiovascular issues, respiratory problems, liver damage, and increased risk of infectious diseases.
• Addiction: Continued drug misuse can lead to addiction, where the individual develops a compulsive need for the substance, leading to difficulty in quitting even with negative consequences.
• Mental Health: Substance abuse can contribute to mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, paranoia, and hallucinations.
• Impaired Judgment: Drugs can impair cognitive function, leading to poor decision-making, risky behaviors, and accidents.
• Relationship Strain: Drug abuse can strain relationships with family and friends, leading to isolation and social withdrawal.
• Legal Consequences: Possession, use, and distribution of illegal drugs can result in legal consequences, including fines, probation, or imprisonment.
• Financial Impact: Sustaining a drug habit can lead to financial difficulties, as individuals may prioritize substance use over essential needs.
• Education and Employment: Drug abuse can negatively impact academic and job performance, leading to educational setbacks and unemployment.
• Overdose: In severe cases, drug abuse can lead to overdose, which can be fatal. Overdose risk is exceptionally high with certain substances, such as opioids.

Drug Abuse Statistics

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention analyzed death certificates to come up with an estimate for 2020 drug overdose deaths. The estimation of over 93,000 interprets to an average of more than 250 deaths each day, or roughly 11 deaths every hour. Therefore, we should be ready to acknowledge this problem if we or someone we love suffers from drug addiction. Facts about drug abuse are now available from different sources. The decision to recognize this condition is a step toward beginning addiction treatment.

Drug Misuse Vs Abuse, Tolerance, and Addiction Chart

Misusing drugs means using them differently than a doctor recommends, while abusing drugs means using them excessively or harmfully. Tolerance happens when your body gets used to a drug, needing more for the same effect, and addiction is when you can’t control your desire for the drug despite adverse outcomes.

Complications From Drug and Alcohol Abuse

While addiction exists in many forms, drug and alcohol addiction are among the most common. Due to the multifaceted nature of these illicit substances, addiction tends to have both physical and psychological components, creating an entanglement or a cycle of dependency from which it can be challenging to escape.

Addiction is a lot like other diseases, such as heart disease. Both disrupt the normal, healthy functioning of an organ in the body, have serious harmful effects, and are often preventable and treatable. If left untreated, they can last a lifetime and may lead to death.

The most common reported health complications from drug abuse include the following:

• Liver Damage: Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatitis, while certain drugs may also impact liver function.
• Cardiovascular Issues: Substance abuse is linked to heart problems, including increased risk of heart attacks, high blood pressure, and irregular heartbeats.
• Cognitive Impairment: Prolonged drug and alcohol abuse can result in cognitive deficits, memory loss, and impaired decision-making abilities.
• Infectious Diseases: Sharing needles during drug use or engaging in risky behaviors under the influence can increase the risk of infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis.
• Mental Health Disorders: Substance abuse is associated with mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, psychosis, and increased risk of suicide.
• Accidents and Injuries: Impaired judgment and coordination under the influence can lead to accidents, injuries, and an overall increase in the risk of harm.
• Respiratory Problems: Certain drugs, mainly when smoked, can cause respiratory issues, including chronic bronchitis and lung damage.
• Gastrointestinal Complications: Substance abuse may contribute to gastrointestinal problems such as ulcers, inflammation, and digestive issues.
• Weakened Immune System: Both drug and alcohol abuse can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
• Social and Relationship Issues: Substance abuse can strain relationships, lead to social isolation, and contribute to difficulties in work or academic settings.

It’s essential to seek help and treatment for drug and alcohol abuse to prevent or mitigate these health complications.

The Long-Term Life Consequences of Drug Abuse

In the middle or later stages of an addiction, the adverse effects will be more permanent or have long-term consequences. Unfortunately, someone with a severe addiction problem may allow, overlook, or trivialize these consequences in favor of continuing their habits.

Potential Consequences

• Getting a transmissible disease, primarily through shared needles.
• Dropping out of school or getting poor grades.
• Broken relationships with friends and family.
• Loss of good status or tarnished reputation.
• Arrests or jail time.
• Eviction from the home or failed mortgage payments.
• Loss of job.
• Loss of parental rights.

Can Your Heart Heal From Drug Abuse?

The heart’s ability to recover from drug abuse depends on how long and how much someone uses drugs. Prolonged abuse, especially with stimulants or opioids, can cause lasting damage to the heart. Seeking treatment, adopting a healthier lifestyle, and avoiding drugs can help improve heart health, but it’s essential to address substance abuse early to maximize recovery potential and prevent more harm.

How to Overcome Drug Abuse?

Addressing substance use disorders requires a comprehensive approach that breaks the cycle of dependence and delves into the underlying causes of mental health and drug use issues.

• Seek Professional Help: Contact healthcare professionals, therapists, or addiction specialists who can provide guidance, support, and tailored treatment plans.
• Build a Support System: Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends and family who understand your journey and can encourage you during challenging times.
• Participate in Therapy: Engage in individual or group therapy sessions to address underlying issues contributing to drug abuse and develop coping strategies for a drug-free life.
• Explore Rehab Programs: Consider inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation programs that offer structured environments, counseling, and educational resources to support recovery.
• Create a Healthy Routine: Establish a daily routine that includes regular exercise, proper nutrition, and sufficient sleep to promote overall well-being and reduce the risk of relapse.
• Learn and Practice Coping Skills: Develop healthy coping mechanisms for stress, anxiety, and triggers that may lead to drug use, such as mindfulness, meditation, or creative activities.
• Set Realistic Goals: Establish achievable short-term and long-term goals to stay motivated and focused on your recovery journey, celebrating milestones.

Overcoming drug abuse is a gradual process, and seeking professional assistance is a crucial step toward sustainable recovery.

Drug Abuse Screening Tests

Drug abuse screening tests are assessments designed to identify the presence of drugs or their metabolites in an individual’s system. These drug and alcohol assessments, including drug tests, are crucial for monitoring substance use and addressing potential issues.

List of standard drug abuse screening tests:

• Urine Drug Test (UDT): Analyzes a urine sample for the presence of drugs and is one of the most common and cost-effective methods.
• Hair Drug Test: Detects drug use by analyzing a hair sample. It provides a longer detection window compared to urine tests.
• Saliva Drug Test: Examines saliva for drug presence, providing a non-invasive and quick screening method.
• Blood Drug Test: Analyzes a blood sample to detect recent drug use and is often used in legal or medical settings.
• Breathalyzer Test: Primarily used for alcohol detection by measuring the blood alcohol content (BAC) through breath samples.
• Sweat Patch Test: This involves wearing a patch that collects sweat to detect drug use over an extended period.
• Fingernail Drug Test: Similar to a hair test, it analyzes drug presence in the keratin of fingernails.

The choice of test depends on factors like the detection window needed, cost, and the specific drugs being screened. Each test has its advantages and limitations, and their accuracy can vary. Professional interpretation of results is crucial for proper assessment and intervention in cases of substance abuse.

How to Pass a Drug Test?

We Level Up New Jersey Inpatient Drug Abuse Treatment

We Level Up New Jersey is here for you if you’re struggling with addiction. As a licensed and accredited rehabilitation center, we focus on helping you reach your goals day by day. Our personalized approach tailors your care to fit your background, history of drug addiction, lifestyle, interests, and unique needs, ensuring a path to recovery and sobriety that’s right for you.

To best customize our services to your needs, our drug abuse treatment programs include:

• Drug detox.
• Behavioral counseling.
• Medication-assisted treatment (for opioid, tobacco, or alcohol addiction).
• Evaluation and dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
• Long-term follow-up and relapse prevention.
• Medications and devices can be used to manage withdrawal symptoms, prevent relapse, and treat co-occurring conditions.

Behavioral therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, can also help clients to:

• Change their attitudes and behaviors related to drug use.
• Enrich healthy life skills.
• Continue with other forms of treatment, such as relapse prevention and aftercare.

Recovering from drug addiction can be manageable with support from an inpatient drug rehab like We Level Up New Jersey. Achieve lifelong sobriety without hesitation—contact us today. Our dedicated admissions specialist will address your questions and concerns about addiction treatment with compassion and understanding. Your call is private and confidential, and there is never any obligation.

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