You can’t deny the drama of substance abuse. Addiction, overdose and other side effects disrupt families, personal lives, and professional lives. Unfortunately, this same drama leads to assumptions and stereotypes about those who abuse drugs. It shapes public opinion about what addiction looks like. It leads to confusion about what and if anything should be done. Healing comes through treatment. Unfortunately, few people reach out to or access treatment resources. The Surgeon General’s Report on Alcohol, Drugs, and Health explains, “Only about 1 in 10 people with a substance use disorder receive any type of specialty treatment.”1 With the right treatment program, recovery is possible. Anyone can overcome substance abuse and related issues. Anyone can build a life that is safe, sober, and free from substance abuse side effects.
Physically, substance abuse can land you in the emergency room. There are a staggering number of overdoses every day. Many of these are fatal. The New York Times shares, “Drug overdose deaths in 2016 most likely exceeded 59,000…now the leading cause of death among Americans under 50.” Although the data is preliminary, the Times’best estimate is that deaths rose 19 percent over the 52,404 recorded in 2015. And all evidence suggests the problem has continued to worsen in 2017.” 2
While substance abuse has serious physical consequences, it does more than harm your body. It negatively impacts your mental health as well. Drugs change how you perceive the world. These changes begin to affect you even when you aren’t actively using a substance. They affect how you think, what you say and what you do. Substance abuse changes your ability to experience pleasure. Things that once made you happy or excited no longer will. The brain begins to focus on and respond only to drugs. At the same time, chemical changes begin to interact with or create other mental health issues.
There is treatment for substance abuse. The Surgeon General’s Report explains, “Well-supported scientific evidence shows that substance use disorders can be effectively treated, with recurrence rates no higher than those for other chronic illnesses such as diabetes, asthma, and hypertension. With comprehensive continuing care, recovery is now an achievable outcome.” If you seek professional help, you can find real healing. You can find hope for a drug-free life. You can find hope for mental, physical, and emotional health.
Om To Home offers integrated, effective care. We help you address any and all co-occurring addiction, physical health, and mental health issues. We create a solid foundation for recovery and continue to support you long after immediate treatment ends. Call to learn more about beginning your recovery with an in-depth assessment and personalized treatment plan. We can help you heal. Reach out today.