Almost 20% of American adults have some sort of mental illness. And you can bet that a good number of them also struggle with substance abuse.
While substance abuse can cause mental health issues, and vice versa, one thing’s for certain: drug and alcohol abuse isn’t good for your body or your mind.
Interested in learning more? Here are the effects of drug abuse on your mental health.
Your Brain Is Rewired
When you use drugs and alcohol, the pathways in your brain can become rewired due to repeated substance abuse. This is because these things alter your dopamine response (dopamine is the “feel good” hormone).
Over time, your body will build a resistance to your original dosage, which means you need to take more and more to get the same high. This repeated use of drugs (and the high dosages) will rewire your neurons and make you a different person.
You’ll Be More Susceptible to Developing Mental Health Issues
Depending on which substance you’re using, abusing it can make you more susceptible to developing mental health issues. For example, the abuse of cannabis, hallucinogens, and cocaine increases the chance of you developing schizophrenia and other related disorders.
Not to mention, you’ll also be prone to more “ordinary” mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety. When the high wears off from drugs, the withdrawal symptoms can bring the symptoms of these 2 disorders on.
You’ll Experience More Intense Symptoms
If you’re already struggling with mental health issues, then drug abuse can make the symptoms worse.
Of course, when you’re high, you might not think that at all. In fact, you might feel better than before!
But this is all temporary. In the long run, substance abuse will definitely exacerbate any existing mental health issues you have. Even prescription drug abuse can result in worsening symptoms.
Go to Rehab if You’re Struggling
If you’re struggling with the effects of drug abuse on your health (both physical and mental), it’s a good idea to check into drug rehab.
The professionals at these centers will help you tackle substance abuse so you can restore your body, mind, and even soul. You’ll learn what drives you to use substances; in many cases, it’s unaddressed trauma.
Once you’ve figured out what drives your addiction, then these professionals will teach you healthier ways to cope with triggers. You’ll also participate in alternative therapies like art therapy and even nutrition classes so you can heal holistically.
In the end, you’ll be a much stronger person!
Lessen the Effects of Drug Abuse by Seeking Help
As you can see, the effects of drug abuse on your mental health can be devastating. Not to mention, they can have a huge effect on your physical health too.
So if you or someone you love is struggling with drug abuse, seek help promptly. By receiving professional assistance in rehab, you’ll be able to get back on track to health and happiness.
If you’d like to learn more about drug and alcohol abuse, please read the rest of our blog page now.
