As a drug and alcohol treatment center in Indiana, we encourage individuals to follow a drug-free lifestyle. It’s important to your health and well-being to avoid the use of addictive substances. Yet, the world continues to change, and some people wonder if living drug-free really is necessary.
No matter what your beliefs or expectations are about substance use, one thing is certain. A person who develops a substance use disorder (SUD) faces a lifetime of limitations, health complications, and potential mental health disorders. At this point, SUD is a disease that warrants treatment.
If you are facing drug or alcohol addiction right now and you’re ready to seek treatment, turn to Anabranch Recovery Center. We work with you to help you overcome SUDs so you can reclaim your path forward.
More Adults Are Using Substances
A study recently published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) found that more adults are using drugs on a routine basis. Those drugs, including methamphetamine, cocaine, opioids, and marijuana, carry significant risks when used long-term. That includes the risk of dependence and addiction.
The study data show that the highest age group of drug use across the board is adults between the ages of 18 and 25. However, the number of adults between the ages of 26 and 49 using substances is growing.
- Since 2015, the number of people over the age of 26 who report using marijuana on a daily basis has doubled.
- Every year since 2012, the number of people using cocaine and the number of deaths attributed to cocaine overdose have risen consistently.
- From 2011 to 2018, the number of people and the rate of overdose deaths related to meth use have grown fivefold in people who are between the ages of 25 and 54.
There are many potential reasons why this increase is occurring. In many ways, higher stress levels, access to the substance, and increased legal access to some products are contributing.
But, does it matter? It definitely does.
The Long-Term Implications of Drug Use
If you take a look at the data from SAMHSA, you’ll notice some critical elements in terms of what types of substances people are using and what the outcome of doing so is. Consider the long-term impact of the use of these substances.
Cocaine
Cocaine is a stimulant that works to create energy and a sense of euphoria. Data shows that 1 in 5 overdoses involve its use. Overdose risks are very high, especially as a person increases the amount of drugs they are using. This drug also caused a high risk of asthma development and bowel decay.
Methamphetamine
Another concerning substance on the increase in use with adults is meth. Meth carries a very high risk of health complications because of the way it works to speed up the body’s heart rate, brain function, and breathing. It taxes your body significantly. Even on a first try, meth can cause sudden death to occur. Chronic users also experience paranoia, psychosis, and aggression, all of which lead to complicated relationships, financial conditions, and health loss.
Opioids
Opioids have seen a lot of attention because of the increased number of overdoses occurring in the past few years. Opioids often carry a perception of safety because they are a very helpful pain medication. However, they are also highly addictive and can cause confusion, constipation, and brain damage with continued use. These substances slow down the function of the brain, breathing, and heart to dangerous levels.
Marijuana
Perhaps one of the most controversial drugs on the rise is marijuana. Even when legally used, this drug carries a risk of health complications. Some people can develop an addiction to it. When that occurs, your addiction may become an overwhelming focus of your daily life. It can lead to health complications with continued use, including lung disease, brain and cognitive changes, and kidney toxicity.
When Is Drug Use Dangerous?
If you are using drugs for any reason, know that there is a time in every situation where treatment is beneficial. If your continued use is creating complications such as the following, now is the time to seek help:
- Overdoses
- Inability to work or focus on your job
- Stress that impacts your family and other relationships
- Constant thoughts of using the substance
- Financial and legal troubles that develop that stem from your use
- Disease development
In every situation, you have the option to get help. You do not have to continue to use substances that impact your health. Start with detox and learn your path forward.
Turn to Anabranch Recovery Center for Guidance
At Anabranch Recovery Center, we provide you with a new path forward, one where you do not have to feel chained to the use of a substance just to get through the day. Contact us now to learn about treatment options that can help.
