A Quick Guide to Understanding substance Misuse.

Addiction is a complicated disease. The causes are numerous and oftentimes the symptoms

can be confusing. There is very rarely a single reason for addiction, and it often shows itself in a

number of different forms. If you or one of your loved ones suffers from substance abuse

disorder, it can be quite confusing. When addiction enters your personal life, it can look quite

different than it does on TV and in books. Knowledge is your best weapon against addiction, so

Love and Respect Community for Recovery and Wellness has put together this quick guide with

everything you should know about substance abuse.

Understand the Signs of Addiction

If you think you or someone you know might be addicted, then it is important to understand the

signs. It’s important to realize, however, that the symptoms vary depending on the addiction. For

example, someone with an opioid addiction might suffer from constipation, nausea, confusion,

and drowsiness.

Often, opioid addiction starts with a valid prescription, so ask yourself if your loved one was

recently prescribed opioids for an injury, surgery, or chronic illness. Other types of substances

will produce other kinds of symptoms though. Mayo Clinic notes that sedatives will produce

symptoms such as unsteady walking, poor concentration, and memory problems, while

stimulants will cause reduced appetite, agitation, insomnia, and anxiety.

While many of the symptoms depend on the substance, most people with substance abuse will

display troubling behaviors, like defensiveness, agitation, absenteeism, and lying. If your loved

one seems to be sneaking pills or going out at odd hours, it is possible that they are addicted to

something and need help.

Professional Help Is a Must

Although it might be tempting to treat substance abuse on your own, professional help is a must

for long-term recovery. Addiction is not a choice; you cannot will it away just like you can’t will

the flu away. It requires proper care and treatment. Many addicts report that they feel

uncomfortable without their addicted substance. The only way they can feel normal is to use

again.

Plus, withdrawal symptoms are very real and can be extremely serious. It is often unsafe to try

and quit a long-term addiction without professional help. According to GoodRx, withdrawal

symptoms can start like a really bad flu, but can quickly lead to psychological symptoms such as

emotional withdrawal, which will often continue for months after the physical withdrawal

symptoms have alleviated.

Healthy Habits can Help

When partnered with a professional recovery plan, healthy habits can be a big help. Drinking

water, stocking up on healthy foods, and sitting down to eat are all great healthy habits to start

with. Part of substance abuse is habitual use, which is using drugs out of habit. Everyone knows

that replacing a habit is far easier than getting rid of one, so encourage substituting these

healthy habits for toxic ones. They can be a great way to keep your recovery for the long-term.

Find Support

Whether you or your loved one are experiencing substance abuse, there are lots of support

groups available to you. While substance abuse-specific groups can be helpful, just spending

time with sober friends can provide lots of benefits and allow you to refresh after a hard battle

with substance abuse. Getting your mind off the problem for a bit can help you recharge your

batteries, and including your friends can help them be there for you through these difficult times.

The journey toward substance abuse recovery can be full of twists and turns. By arming yourself

with knowledge, you can begin approaching this disease with understanding and insight.

Remember to understand the signs of addiction, seek professional help if needed, live a

healthier life with smart decisions about diet and exercise, and nurture a solid support system.

• ThePreventionCoalition.org