Many people ask, “What is drug abuse? There are varying stages of addiction, and it starts with drug abuse. No one suddenly develops an addiction it builds over time. Often we blind ourselves to fairly obvious signs because we do not want to confront a serious issue like drug abuse or addiction. Even individuals who know what to look for may not see everything. It’s essential to be aware of these signs so that you can help someone should they need it.
What Is Drug Abuse?
As a society, drug abuse is reaching beyond epidemic proportions in the United States. There are many drugs that are completely legal, and when a person starts to experience drug abuse it becomes easy to get addicted. Drug abuse includes all of the following substances, as well as many more:
- Prescription Drugs
- Cocaine
- Meth
- Heroin
- Marijuana
Drug abuse is using any substance in a compulsive, excessive, or self-damaging manner. The reality is that any mind-altering substance that’s being abused can turn into an addiction.
What is Addiction?
Our brains repeat certain actions that bring us pleasure, and these actions mold our lives. More recent work and studies show how habits form and become addictions. Once a certain behavior is consistently done with specific triggers, the user begins to lose control. Many people with an addiction to drugs or alcohol had control at some point or another, but repeating the action made them lose control. This means that many people continue abusing drugs, even though they’re not experiencing pleasure and continuing to have negative consequences.
Signs Of Drug Abuse Than Can Lead To Addiction
There are many signs of drug abuse an individual may be hiding from their family, friends, and co-workers. When someone close to you begins to use drugs, it can be difficult to see the warning signs. Signs of Drug abuse can Include but are not limited to:
- Lifestyle Changes
- Financial Trouble
- New and Unhealthy Relationships
- Changes in Appearance
- Suspicious Behaviors
When you have noticed these signs in your loved one, they may be coming close to drug addiction. It’s easy for physical dependence to develop, and it doesn’t necessarily have to be a dependence on just one drug. Alcohol and opioids are two of the most common substances that individuals become addicted to with long-term abuse. Attempting to detox from these substances can be incredibly difficult to do alone and depending on the drugs very dangerous.
Treatment For Drug Abuse In Asheville, NC
If you are finding signs of drug abuse in a loved one or yourself, there are ways to get help. By helping loved ones seek professional rehabilitation, you’re letting them know that you care about their well-being. Support can go a long way in initiating change.
Crest View Recovery offers life-changing rehab programs for those struggling with drug abuse and addiction. Our experienced staff provides individualized treatment programs for recovery. There’s no better time to take the first step toward helping someone you love or yourself to live a better life. Contact us today or get more information about our admissions process now.
