Hi everyone…Happy September. It is hard to believe that the year is over halfway gone. It feels like it was just January and here it is September. Why does time have to move so fast these days?
I wanted to ask for help with a new project I am working on. As many of you know if you have been reading my blog for a minute, I am a Substance Abuse Counselor. I have decided to combine my two passions: writing and addiction. I am going to be working on a book that is going to explain addiction and current research.
I would like to have a chapter in the book where I tell stories of those in recovery and survivors of family members who have overdosed. I believe this book will help end the stigma of addiction and explain it better for those who don’t understand it.
In my five years working in this field, I have lost about 10 previous clients to overdoses or deaths caused by the use of substances that interfered with other body systems. I have dealt with my own grief and wished there was something else I could do. I have heard from previous clients that their family members don’t understand their addiction or if they are on Medication Assisted Treatment (suboxone, Vivitrol, or methadone) they are just trading one substance for another.
So my goal with this book is to provide insight to those in all stages of recovery and addiction and current research about addiction and treatment, along with resources of where to go for help.
If you would like to contribute a story or any advice for others in recovery please email me at darlacarmoneyllpc@gmail.com and put “Addiction book” in the subject line.
The use and abuse of drugs and alcohol is a complex issue. There are many myths and misconceptions about substance abuse and its causes. At the same time, there are also many truths about substance abuse that are often ignored.
In this article, we will dispel 10 of the most common myths about substance abuse. We will also provide 10 truths about substance abuse that everyone should know. It is our hope that this article will help to spread awareness about the realities of substance abuse and its impact on individuals and society as a whole.
While it is important to have an understanding of the myths and truths associated with substance abuse, it is also essential to understand the underlying factors that can enable substance abuse. There are numerous enabling factors associated with substance abuse including:
– Stress: Stress can often lead to self-medicating with drugs or alcohol.
– Social Media: Social media can influence people to engage in drug or alcohol consumption.
– Peer Pressure: Peer pressure can lead people to partake in substance use, even when they don’t want to.
– Home Environment: Individuals who grow up in homes with substance abuse issues are more likely to engage in the same behaviors.
– Mental Health: Mental health issues like depression and anxiety can lead to substance abuse.
– Genetics: Genetics can play a role in substance abuse. If an individual has a family history of drug or alcohol abuse, they are more likely to struggle with these issues.
It is crucial to understand all these enabling factors of substance abuse in order to develop effective strategies to address the issue.
The truth: Addiction is not a choice. Addiction is a serious brain disease that affects how the brain functions and changes the way a person behaves. Substance use can lead to addiction, but the condition itself is much more complex than simply making a choice. It is an individual’s biology and environment that work together to create the condition of addiction. There is evidence to show that genetics, trauma, mental health, or environment can increase a person’s risk for addiction. It is important to understand that addiction is a medical condition and not just a lack of willpower. Treatment and support are needed to manage the symptoms of the disease and prevent relapse.
Myth #10: Substances aren’t that bad, and addiction is exaggerated.
The truth: Substances can be highly addictive and dangerous. Substance abuse can lead to serious physical and mental health consequences. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to addiction, and the severity of addiction can vary from person to person. But in some cases, substance abuse can lead to life-threatening consequences, such as overdose, death, and suicide. Beyond physical health, substance abuse can lead to relationship problems, financial woes, and criminal activity. Treatment is necessary to prevent these issues and to help an individual reach long-term recovery.
Addiction is a disease, not a moral failing. Substance abuse is a chronic medical condition that requires medical and psychological treatment. Addiction changes the structure and function of the brain, making it difficult to resist compulsions related to using a substance. Substance abuse can lead to physical and mental health issues and can cause impairment in daily life, such as financial, professional, and interpersonal problems. While addiction is treatable, it is not curable, and individuals can and do struggle with exacerbations throughout life.
Treatment for substance abuse should involve medical and psychological approaches, such as individual or group therapy, medications, and lifestyle and dietary changes. Professionals can help individuals who struggle with addiction to develop the skills and strategies necessary for long-term recovery.
Myths vs. Truths About Treatment of Substance Abuse
Myth #1: Treatment isn’t necessary if an individual is not severely addicted.
Truth: Treatment is beneficial to anyone who struggles with substance abuse, regardless of the level of their addiction. Even if the individual is not severely addicted, there is still a significant risk of addiction if substance use continues. Early intervention and treatment can help to curb the potential for addiction and prevent further detriment.
Myth #2: An individual can quit on their own.
Truth: Although it is possible to quit on one’s own, it can be particularly difficult to do this long-term. Professional treatment and support can ensure that individuals have access to the knowledge and services necessary to achieve and maintain long-term sobriety. Professional programs follow an evidence-based approach, which includes treatments that have been proven effective for recovery.
Myth #2: You can’t get addicted to drugs if you only use them recreationally.
Truth: It is possible for an individual to become dependent on drugs or alcohol even if the individual does not use them regularly. Rates of addiction vary from person to person and are dependent on a variety of yet unknown factors such as genetics, psychological state, etc. Even short-term or casual recreational drug or alcohol use may lead to addiction, as can other risk factors such as mental health issues, stress, and age. Therefore, it is still important to be mindful of one’s drug or alcohol use, no matter how casual or recreational it is.
Myth #3: Addiction is purely a physical dependency.
Truth: While there is an undeniable physical component to substance abuse, addiction is also psychological. Drugs and alcohol can cause changes in the brain that make it difficult for a person to control their cravings and make rational decisions not to use them. Factors such as mental health issues, trauma, and stress can all factor into a person’s substance abuse, as well as their treatment. Addiction does not only affect the physical body, it also has a deep psychological element to it. It is important to address both aspects in any addiction treatment plan in order to foster long-term recovery.
Truth #2: You can get addicted to drugs even if you only use them recreationally.
Truth #2: You can get addicted to drugs even if you only use them recreationally.
While it is impossible to become addicted to a drug after a single use, that does not mean recurring recreational use of a drug cannot lead to addiction. Even if an individual only uses drugs socially or recreationally, it can still lead to substance abuse and, eventually, to addiction. The combination of psychological and physical changes caused by drug use can lead to long-term changes in an individual’s brain, making it harder to control their cravings. An individual with an addictive personality is more likely to get addicted to a drug quickly than an individual with a non-addictive personality. It is important to be aware of signs of addiction in yourself or your loved ones and to seek professional help if the signs are there.
Many people believe that all drugs carry the same risk of addiction and overdose, but this is simply not true. Different drugs have different effects on an individual and can cause varying amounts of damage to a person’s physical and mental health. Additionally, the risk of overdose is higher for some drugs than others. It is important to remember that, despite these differences, all drugs have the potential to be dangerous and should be handled with the utmost caution.
This is another common misconception regarding substance abuse. The truth is, anyone can become addicted to drugs regardless of who they are or their background. Substance use can start out as a form of stress relief or peer pressure, no matter how strong of an individual a person is, they can still become addicted to drugs or alcohol. It can happen to anyone.
It is also important to note that substance abuse can also spread significantly within a community. A person’s environment has a huge influence on whether or not they will become addicted to drugs or alcohol. If they are surrounded by people who use substances, even if it is only occasionally, this increases the risk of them eventually taking drugs.
Myth #4: You can’t become addicted to prescription drugs
This myth is incredibly false, as many people become addicted to prescription drugs that were prescribed to them or have been purchased illegally. It is possible to become addicted to opioids, tranquilizers, sedatives, and stimulants.
Part of the reason this myth is still around is because many people don’t recognize the signs of prescription drug abuse. The effects of substance abuse are often hidden behind a seemingly normal lifestyle. It is important to note that just because someone is taking a prescription drug, doesn’t mean they can’t become addicted.
If someone is having difficulty controlling their cravings for a prescription drug, they should contact their doctor or a medical professional who can help them wean off of the drug in a safe and controlled manner.
Truth #3: Anyone can get addicted to drugs.
It may seem hard to believe, but anyone can become dependent or addicted to drugs or alcohol at any time, regardless of their background. From age and gender to socioeconomic status, no one is immune to the potential dangers of substance abuse. The only thing that can inhibit the possibility of becoming addicted to drugs or alcohol is abstinence from them.
Consider a person who is prescribed opioids to reduce their pain, such as those recovering from surgery. The physician may prescribe the smallest dosage, but over time and with regular use, the body builds up a tolerance and the individual will likely require higher and higher doses to achieve the same level of relief. That’s when drug abuse begins as the individual attempts to get the relief they’re seeking.
The truth is that anyone can be on the path to addiction if they take enough of the substance. It is important to keep usage in check and monitor substance use to avoid addiction. Most importantly, always practice moderation and be aware of the impact of drugs.
Myth #4: You have to hit rock bottom to overcome substance abuse.
This is a very common misconception. People often think that the only way to break an addiction is to hit rock bottom with their substance abuse. This is simply not true. While hitting rock bottom may be a catalyst for some individuals to seek help, there are numerous other ways to combat substance abuse without reaching the lowest point.
It is possible to seek professional help, such as substance abuse counselors, before you reach a suicidal stage or any other form of rock bottom. Many people have successfully broken their addictions by taking measures such as getting involved in community programs and support groups, seeking therapy and medication, and even reaching out to friends and family.
The important thing is to make the decision to tackle substance abuse early and seek the help you need to break the cycle. Whether it is through counseling, medications, support groups, or educational programs, you do not need to wait until you hit rock bottom.
Myth #4: You can’t get addicted to drugs if you only use them once in a while.
This is also a very common myth regarding substance abuse. However, according to research, it is possible to get addicted to drugs even if you only use them once. It is known that there is no standard answer as to why some people become addicted to drugs with their first use while others don’t. It has been noted that certain variables, such as the environment a person is in, the overall emotional and mental health, the intensity of the drugs being taken, and family history, can all contribute to someone becoming addicted with the very first use.
It is also important to understand that addiction can often start as a form of self-medication. If a person is dealing with mental health issues and turns to drugs as a form of coping and pain relief, they can quickly develop an addiction. Those battling depression, anxiety, or PTSD may be more prone to addiction if they decide to turn to substances as a coping mechanism.
Ultimately, the best option is to avoid drug use altogether. It is important that people understand the potential dangers of drug use, such as the risk of addiction, and make better choices.
Myth #10: Treatment for substance abuse is a “one-size-fits-all” approach
This is another common myth surrounding treatment for substance abuse. The truth is that there is no one “right” treatment plan for everyone. Substance abuse affects different people in different ways, and the most effective treatment plans are the ones that are tailored to the individual’s particular circumstances, needs, and goals.
When seeking treatment for substance abuse, everyone’s plan should involve medical and psychological intervention, along with a comprehensive treatment plan that includes evidence-based treatment strategies, counseling and support groups, and lifestyle changes. Treatment plans should be modified as necessary in order to prevent relapse; as needs and goals change, the plan should be adjusted to succeed. In many cases, it is also important to involve family and friends in the recovery process and to explore objective options such as outpatient programs or residential treatment options.
Truth #4: You can get addicted to drugs even if
It is true that you can get addicted to drugs even if you use them “just once”. Many people think that it is only possible to become addicted by repeatedly using drugs, but in fact, for some people, just one instance of drug use can lead to addiction. This is because certain drugs can create a reaction inside the brain that is hard to resist and can cause a person to crave more of the drug.
Unfortunately, this is one of the reasons why it is important to be incredibly careful when it comes to using any type of drug, even if you may think it is harmless. Once an addiction has taken hold, it can be difficult and long process to recover – one which may require professional help and ongoing support.
The number of employees struggling with substance abuse is on the rise. A recent study found that nearly 10% of workers in the United States are struggling with an alcohol or drug addiction. Substance abuse can have a major impact on your workplace. It can lead to absenteeism, errors, injuries, and even theft.
If you suspect that an employee might be struggling with substance abuse, there are a few warning signs to look out for. Keep reading to learn 10 ways to spot substance abuse in the workplace!
Several signs might indicate that an employee is struggling with substance abuse. The most common symptoms include:
– Changes in performance. Substance abuse can lead to an increase in errors and a decrease in productivity. You may also see changes in the quality of the employee’s work.
– Poor punctuality. If an employee is often late or absent from work, this could indicate that they are struggling with substance abuse.
– Decline in physical appearance. An employee struggling with addiction may appear unkempt or disheveled, with bruises or cuts on their body. They may also show signs of malnutrition.
– Excessive cashing out of allotted break times. An employee might be using their allotted break time to find and use drugs.
– Problems with memory. Substances like alcohol and opioids can impair memory and cause an individual to forget what they were doing or where they were going.
– Mood swings. An employee struggling with substance abuse may show signs of depression, anger, or apathy.
If you notice any of these symptoms in an employee, it is important to take note and take appropriate steps to address the issue.
3. The dangers of substance abuse in the workplace
As an employer, it is important to understand the risks of having an employee who is struggling with substance abuse in the workplace. Substance abuse can have serious and long-term repercussions for a business. Here are some of the potential dangers:
1. Safety risks. Employees who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol at work can put themselves and others in danger.
2. Productivity losses. Substance abuse can lead to a decrease in productivity, time off from work, and a higher rate of errors.
3. Financial losses. Substance abuse can reduce profitability by driving away customers and increasing expenses associated with health care, litigation, and worker’s compensation.
4. Workplace conflicts. Substance abuse can lead to conflicts between employees, as well as between employees and management.
5. Legal troubles. Substance abuse in the workplace can also lead to legal issues. An employer may be held liable if an employee is found to be under the influence while performing their duties.
It is important to take action if you spot the signs of substance abuse in the workplace. Taking the right steps can help prevent further damage to your business and the health and safety of your employees.
4. How to deal with substance abuse in the workplace
Once you’ve identified the signs of substance abuse in the workplace, the next step is to take action. It is important to react quickly and appropriately to prevent further damage to your business and to ensure that your workers remain safe and productive.
Here are some steps you can take to respond to substance abuse in the workplace:
1. Develop a clear policy about substance use. This will help ensure that employees are aware of the expectations and potential consequences of any kind of substance abuse.
2. Establish a clear and consistent disciplinary process. Employees should be aware of what will happen if they violate the policy.
3. Offer treatment resources. If an employee is struggling with substance abuse, it is important to provide them with resources to get support and help.
4. Monitor the workplace. Make sure to have a system in place to spot signs of substance abuse and take action quickly if anything suspicious is observed.
5. Respond to concerns. Make sure to address any concerns or complaints about substance abuse in the workplace seriously and promptly.
Taking the right steps can help to protect your business from the dangers of substance abuse. Dealing with substance abuse issues does not need to be overwhelming; having a clear plan and taking action promptly can help address the issue sooner.
Once you have identified and addressed the issue of substance abuse within your workplace, you must take steps to prevent it from happening again. Here are some tips on how you can prevent substance abuse in the workplace:
1. Promote a drug and alcohol-free work culture. Make sure that your company values and policies reflect a commitment to a drug and alcohol-free environment.
2. Develop a comprehensive drug and alcohol policy. This will help to ensure that your staff is clear on what the expectations are and the consequences should they be found to be violating them.
3. Implement regular drug and alcohol testing. Depending on the rules of your state, you may be able to implement drug and alcohol testing to detect any employees who might be abusing substances.
4. Encourage open communication. Provide employees with an outlet to report any issues with substance abuse or to get help if they are struggling with addiction.
5. Be aware of the signs. Be aware of any signs of substance abuse and take proactive steps to address them if they arise.
By taking a proactive stance and implementing these steps, you can protect your workplace from the negative effects of substance abuse.
Darla Carmoney LPC 