Substance Abuse​

What is substance abuse?

Substance abuse refers to the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs. It involves the repeated and excessive consumption of these substances, often leading to negative consequences for the individual’s physical health, mental well-being, relationships, and overall functioning.

Substances commonly associated with abuse include:

  1. Alcohol: Excessive and frequent consumption of alcoholic beverages.
  2. Illicit drugs: This category includes substances such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, ecstasy, hallucinogens, and other illegal drugs.
  3. Prescription medications: Inappropriate use or misuse of prescription drugs, including painkillers, sedatives, and stimulants.

Diagnosis​

Substance abuse can manifest in various ways, and its impact can range from mild to severe. Signs of substance abuse may include:

  1. Loss of control: Difficulty controlling the amount or frequency of substance use.
  2. Neglect of responsibilities: Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities due to substance use.
  3. Legal problems: Involvement in legal issues related to substance use, such as arrests or driving under the influence.
  4. Social and interpersonal problems: Difficulties in relationships, social isolation, or conflicts with family and friends.
  5. Physical and psychological consequences: Adverse effects on physical health, mental well-being, and overall functioning.

It’s important to distinguish between substance abuse and dependence. Substance dependence, also known as addiction, involves a physical and psychological reliance on a substance, often accompanied by withdrawal symptoms when the substance is not used. Substance abuse is a broader term that encompasses problematic substance use without meeting the criteria for dependence.

Reach Out

If any of this strikes a chord for you or for a loved one, please take some time to reflect on these considerations before reaching out to us to book an Info Session. From there, we can support you in determining whether one of our treatments could be right for you, and how to begin your healing journey with Cena Life.