Substance abuse is when a person consumes illegal drugs that affects a person’s personal life and health. If a person consumes excessive alcohol, prescription medicine or other illegal substances on a regular basis, then they can get dependent on the substance for their survival. Substance abuse often occurs when a person wants to experience a boost in energy, pleasure and a sense of superiority. Abusing drugs can lead to addiction, substance abuse differs from addiction, which as a result can cause serious health issues.

Treatment options for alcohol and substance abuse depend on the type of abuse and the dosage of the substance being abused. Some of the most common types of substance abuse are:

Alcohol
Alcohol abuse affects everyone differently. Heavy drinking can cause liver problems and other health issues or lead to a more serious alcohol disorder. For men, heavy drinking means more than four drinks in a day or more than 14 in a week. If you are a woman, heavy drinking means more than three drinks in a day or more than seven drinks a week.

Cocaine abuse
Cocaine is an addictive street drug that has been and continues to be extremely popular worldwide. Cocaine is derived from the coca plant which is native to South America. After consumption, one will feel energetic and excited for about 20 minutes. It’s frequently used as it wears off early, which leads to dependence and potential overdose.

Adderall Abuse
Adderall is the most popular prescription stimulant. Adderall is prescribed for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). When abused, it triggers energy and hyperfocus for hours. Excessive abuse can lead to cardiac complications.

Meth Abuse
Commonly known as crystal or ice, meth is an extremely toxic stimulant. Paint thinners, hydrochloric acid, and battery fluid are its ingredients. A person abusing meth will feel intense excitement and sadness. The constant change can lead to severe psychological problems that can last forever.

Opioid Abuse
Opioids can be naturally occurring such as heroin and codeine or synthetic such as fentanyl and OxyContin. It can be injected, smoked or snorted. When abused, a person will feel high, which reduces or eliminates their physical or psychological distress. It can lead to collapsed veins and an increased risk for blood-borne diseases such as hepatitis and HIV.

Sedative Abuse
Sedatives such as benzodiazepines are used to treat anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, and OCD. Benzodiazepines also help with sleeping disorders and seizures. Xanax, Ativan, and Valium are some commonly used benzodiazepines. When abused, a person will feel sleepy, drowsy, and depressed. Excessive abuse can lead to seizures.

Treatment options for alcohol and substance abuse differ for each abuser and are customized based on the situation and requirement. Treatment programs help individuals with recovery and leading a normal life.

Some of the treatment options for alcohol and substance abuse are:

• Inpatient Rehab
• Outpatient Rehab
• Drug and Alcohol Detox
• Sober Living Homes
• Addiction Treatment Medications
• Faith-Based Treatment

These treatment options are designed to tackle all aspects of an individual’s addiction. Treatment options for alcohol and substance abuse not only help people safely withdraw from their drugs or alcohol but also help them in gaining healthy habits.

The sooner an individual ends their drug abuse, the more likely they are to have a chance at a full recovery.