Substance Abuse and Addiction
Substance abuse refers to the harmful and excessive use of drugs or alcohol, even when it leads to negative consequences. Those who suffer from substance use disorders often experience strong cravings and lose the ability to control their urges to use these substances, which can result in significant disruptions in their lives.
The good news is that substance abuse is treatable. Nolensville Psychiatry offers help to individuals struggling with addiction, helping them overcome their dependencies. Dr. Christopher Van Schenck provides care at our clinic just outside Nashville, conveniently located near Franklin, Oak Hill, La Vergne, Smyrna, Brentwood, Forest Hills, Thompson’s Station, Triune, Arrington, and Almaville, Tennessee.
Substance abuse affects both physical health and daily functioning, potentially causing problems in personal relationships, work life, and overall well-being. Regular misuse of substances, including alcohol, prescription medications, or illegal drugs, can lead to severe health complications, such as cardiovascular disease, liver damage, neurological issues, and even death.
What Causes Substance Abuse?
There are many factors that may contribute to someone developing a substance abuse disorder. Some individuals turn to substances for relief from stress, anxiety, depression, or to experience temporary pleasure. Traumatic events or unstable home environments can also increase the likelihood of substance dependence. While the exact causes of substance abuse remain complex, a combination of genetic factors, environmental stressors, mental health conditions, and the type of substance used can all play a role. Children raised in environments where drug or alcohol abuse is prevalent are at a higher risk for developing similar issues themselves, both due to genetic predisposition and learned behavior. Certain groups of people may be more vulnerable to substance abuse, including those who:
- Struggle with depression or other mood disorders
- Have a history of anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia
- Have easy access to addictive substances
- Have low self-esteem or poor coping mechanisms
- Have a family member with a substance use disorder
- Experience relationship difficulties
- Face chronic emotional or financial stress
- Live in communities where drug use is normalized
- Have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Commonly Abused Substances
Substance abuse can involve both legal and illegal substances. Many of these substances cause intoxication that can impair judgment, perception, and physical coordination. Commonly abused substances include:
- Alcohol
- Cigarettes and tobacco products
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Heroin
- Prescription painkillers (e.g., opioids)
- Methamphetamines
- Narcotics
- Hallucinogens (e.g., LSD, ecstasy)
- Inhalants
Treatment Options for Substance Abuse
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating substance abuse, but the primary objective is to help individuals stop the cycle of substance use and lead a healthier, substance-free life. Treatment begins with acknowledging the problem and seeking professional help. Depending on the type of substance and severity of the addiction, treatment may involve:
- Behavioral therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to address thought patterns and behaviors
- Medications to manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms
- Support groups and peer counseling for encouragement and accountability
- Inpatient or residential treatment programs for intensive care and support
For many individuals, combining therapy with medication can be highly effective in treating substance abuse. Recovery from addiction is a lifelong process, and long-term commitment to sobriety is key to maintaining a healthy and fulfilling life.