Written by Sharyu Harbade – M.P.H Class of 2025, University of New Haven
A complex condition known as substance abuse disorder (SUD) is characterized by the uncontrolled use of a substance despite its harmful consequences. It impacts individuals from all walks of life, regardless of their age, socioeconomic background, or ethnicity. “Among individuals seeking treatment for SUDs, approximately 36% to 50% meet criteria for lifetime PTSD. The self-medication and susceptibility hypotheses are two of the hypotheses that have been proposed to help explain the etiological relationship between PTSD and SUDs.” (Brady et al., 2004).
Understanding the Roots:
The human brain is adapted to seek pleasure and avoid pain. Drugs and alcohol create an intense feeling of euphoria through the manipulation of neurotransmitters such as dopamine. Initially, this is what makes them appealing. The brain will adapt and need more of the substance to achieve the same pleasurable effect with repeated use. The foundation of addiction is a chronic, relapsing brain disease that is characterized by an inadequacy in controlling substance use, despite negative consequences.
Although biological processes are important, substance abuse is usually not a problem that occurs alone. Psychological factors, such as trauma, anxiety, or depression can fuel the urge to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol. A lot of people turn to substances as a means of coping with emotional pain or difficult experiences. Social determinants of health, such as poverty, lack of opportunity, and exposure to violence, can also play a significant role. People who grow up in an environment that is filled with addiction are more likely to fall into the same patterns. “They may see substance use as a normalized coping mechanism or lack access to healthy alternatives for managing stress and negative emotions.” (Minnesota Department of Health, n.d.).
The Grip of Addiction: Challenges on the Road to Recovery
Recovery is a journey that requires a lot of effort. The process of overcoming withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and the constant battle with triggers can be extremely difficult. When addicted to substances, the human brain can become highly sensitive to cues associated with substance use. These cues, which include places, people, emotions, and even smells, can cause intense cravings and make relapse a constant danger. The stigma associated with addiction further complicates matters. Shame, fear of being judged, and a lack of understanding from friends and family are major barriers to seeking help. Breaking down barriers and promoting open conversations about substance abuse is even more crucial due to this cycle of silence that perpetuates the problem.
A Deeper Look at Stigma
Stigma has the power to prevent individuals from seeking help. Frequently, addiction is fueled by misconceptions, which are often perceived as a moral failing instead of a disease. This perception may cause feelings of isolation, shame, and despair, preventing motivation to seek recovery. Furthermore, stigma can limit access to treatment. If people seek help for addiction, they may be afraid of discrimination at work, school, or even within their own families. Their fear may discourage them from seeking treatment and pursuing long-term recovery.
Paths to Hope and Healing
Despite the challenges, recovery is absolutely possible. The evidence-based treatments include:
- Detoxification: This medically supervised procedure aids in cleansing the body of addictive substances.
- Behavioral therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a technique that helps individuals identify and change unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors that lead to addiction.
- Support groups: It can be incredibly helpful to share experiences and draw strength from others who have taken similar paths.
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): By combining certain medications with behavioral therapy, cravings, and withdrawal symptoms can be effectively managed.
Actionable Steps for Our Community
Here’s how we can all play a role in promoting awareness and supporting those struggling with substance abuse:
- It is important to educate yourself as knowledge is a powerful tool. Gain a better understanding of addiction, its causes, and the various treatment options accessible.
- Combat Stigma through the power of words. Try to avoid using judgmental language and encourage empathy and understanding whenever possible.
- Let those who are battling addiction know that they are not alone. Help them connect with resources while providing a listening ear and non-judgmental support.
Together We Can Make a Difference
Although substance abuse is a complex problem, it doesn’t have to be hopeless. By fostering open conversations, dismantling stigma, and supporting recovery programs, we can create a world where individuals struggling with addiction can access the help they need and find hope for a brighter future. Don’t forget that recovery is a process, not just a destination. We can all play a role in breaking the chains of addiction with compassion, empowerment, and the proper support systems in place.
REFERENCES
Brady, K. T., Back, S. E., & Coffey, S. F. (2004). Substance abuse and posttraumatic stress disorder. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 13(5), 206–209. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.0963-7214.2004.00309.xSocial Determinants of Health: Substance Use – MN Dept. of Health. (n.d.). https://www.web.health.state.mn.us/communities/opioids/prevention/socialdeterminants.html
