Many people think substance abuse and addiction are essentially the same. However, there are some distinct differences between these two conditions. The material that follows will talk about a substance abuse disorder in more detail. Moreover, it will also cover important facts about seeking professional treatment for addiction problems.
Understanding a Substance Abuse Disorder
A substance abuse disorder usually refers to the consistent misuse of addictive substances in a way that causes mental, emotional, or physical harm. However, a person facing a substance abuse problem doesn’t automatically have an addiction. Rather, a substance abuse problem can eventually lead to the development of an addiction.
How to Detect a Substance Abuse Disorder
To get help for a substance abuse disorder, you’ll need to know the signs of a possible problem. For example, the list below covers a few important clues that you should pay careful attention to:
Personality Changes
Addictive substances can create ongoing changes in brain chemistry. These changes can affect the individual’s mood and personality. As a result, those experiencing substance abuse problems might have chronic mood swings and disturbing personality changes.
Physical Changes
Of course, the abuse of addictive substances can also result in physical changes. For example, a person abusing drugs might appear unwell or have bloodshot eyes. They may also lose weight unintentionally.
Social Problems
Many people facing the problems of substance abuse and addiction begin to isolate themselves. Social isolation can be a direct result of the drug they are abusing. In some cases, however, this practice can indicate a co-existing problem with clinical depression or anxiety.
Risky Behaviors
It’s not uncommon for addictive substances to affect the reasoning centers of the brain. As a result, a person dealing with addiction may make poor decisions. This can result in the person engaging in dangerous or illegal actions.
Failure to Meet Obligations
A person continually influenced by addictive substances will usually be unable to carry out duties. They may show up late for work or be unable to perform tasks. Alternatively, they may also be unable to take care of their home or parenting duties.
Financial Struggles
Those experiencing an addiction may start to have trouble with their finances. Specifically, they may begin to let important bills go unpaid. Alternatively, some people also start to borrow or steal money from others.
What is a Dual Diagnosis?
Some people who are abusing addictive substances have co-existing problems. These problems may include a mental illness, for example. Suffering from multiple conditions at the same time requires prompt and in-depth dual diagnosis treatment.
Treatment Options for Substance Abuse and Addiction
Professional addiction treatment programs almost always rely on a variety of treatment methods. By using a wide variety of treatments, a substance abuse disorder can be alleviated successfully. Treatment options might include individual counseling, community support groups, outdoor therapy, family therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy.
Finding proper relief from a substance abuse disorder doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Denver Recovery is an addiction rehabilitation facility serving the needs of the Denver, CO area. The compassionate treatment team at Denver Recovery focuses on the implementation of holistic treatment options in a peaceful setting. Each client can receive the in-depth treatment they need to experience a successful recovery.
You don’t have to let addiction control your life or your future success. Unlock access to the tools you need to recover from addiction by seeking professional help now. Contact Denver Recovery at (844) 602-3175 to start on the road to freedom.
