Understanding Substance Abuse: Breaking the Stigma and Finding Recovery

Written By Ben Backes

Introduction

Substance abuse is a very complex and often misunderstood issue that affects millions of people across the country and around the world. Understanding how substance abuse develops, who is most at risk, and what recovery can look like is essential to reducing stigma and supporting those affected.

 

What is Substance Abuse?

Substance abuse, more commonly known as addiction, is a physical dependence on a chemical substance, such as nicotine, alcohol, or any kind of illicit drug. This dependence can make it very difficult to stop using the chosen substance(s), as this typically results in an unpleasant set of physical symptoms known as withdrawal. Dependence on any substance, especially for an extended period of time, can cause strain in familial, platonic, romantic, and professional relationships as well as in one's career and daily responsibilities. Because of this, it is important to understand what substance abuse is, how it develops, and how to recover.

 

How Does Substance Abuse Occur?

There is an abundance of stigma and judgement around substance abuse in our current society, and many people view it as a form of intrinsic or moral weakness. This is far from true. Vulnerability to addiction and substance abuse is biologically wired into our brains. Substances release a chemical called dopamine within our brains, and this chemical is responsible for responding to rewards and feeling pleasure.

When a person takes a substance, abnormally high levels of dopamine are released, causing the brain to crave it because it feels good. Eventually, the original dose does not trigger as large of a dopamine release, causing the person to take more, and cravings to increase. This cycle is what creates addiction.

Addiction is also heavily hereditary. According to Stanford Medicine, genetics account for about 50% to 60% of a person's risk for addiction. Some mental illnesses, such as ADHD and bipolar disorder, also increase a person's risk. Age plays a key role as well, as the younger one begins using substances, the greater their risk for addiction throughout their life. This is because the brain does not finish developing around age 25, amplifying the effects of substances and the likelihood of becoming dependent. This is especially important to note because according to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics (NCDAS), 36.8% of teenagers in grade 12 have misused a drug at least once, 41.7% of teenagers in grade 12 have abused alcohol, and drug use among 8th graders rose 30% between 2016 and 2020. With drug and alcohol use and abuse becoming more prevalent among the youth, the relationship between age and addiction is noteworthy.

 

How Can You Overcome Substance Abuse?

Overcoming addiction is difficult, but it is more than possible. The most important thing to remember is that you are not alone in this process. There are a number of treatment options available to assist individuals in recovery. Physicians are available to consult in order to assess withdrawal symptoms and risks and create treatment and detox plans that will work best for your body. Addiction treatment centers are available for constant support and care through the process of recovery. Mental health professionals are available to address behavioral and emotional concerns, the reasons behind substance use, and to create a treatment plan involving reformed behaviors and healthy coping mechanisms for emotions. Support groups of fellow recovering individuals are also available to provide support, accountability, and a safe place to share your feelings and experiences with substance abuse.

 

Resources to Help

As stated above, you are never alone in the process of overcoming substance abuse. Here are a list of safe, non-judgmental resources to reach out to to support you in your process:

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline: Free, confidential, 24/7, 365 day treatment referral and information service with resources in English and Spanish for people facing mental health disorders and substance abuse. 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

FindTreatment.gov: Confidential and anonymous resource for individuals to find treatment for substance abuse in the U.S. and its territories.

HereNOW Connect: Free smartphone app to assist in recovery. Provides sobriety tracking, messaging with trained counselors and peers, clinical support 9 A.M. - 10 P.M. EST 7 days a week, goal tracking, journaling, and helpful resources.

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): Support group for those recovering from alcohol abuse.

Narcotics Anonymous (NA): Support group for those recovering from drug abuse.

 

Sources



Ben Backes
Next

Turn Intention Into Action