How To Recognize And Treat Drug Abuse

Snorting cocaine and smoking marijuana are common forms of drug abuse. They are addictions affecting adults as well as teens. Others forms of drug abuse include use of substances like heroin, ecstasy, and methamphetamines. All these drugs pose health risks and lead to harmful side effects. The side effects of drug abuse include rotting teeth, extreme weight loss, respiratory problems and heart failure. Taking drugs obtained legally, such as mood altering medication or prescription painkillers, is also considered drug abuse if done irresponsibly. Some common medications like Valium, Xanax and Vicodin have also been turned by addicts into avenues of getting high.

Recognizing Drug Use

It can be difficult to recognize when a friend is abusing drugs. It is even harder to talk to them about it. For those concerned that their loved one is in such a situation, it is important to be on the look out for the signs that depict drug abuse. However, some signs do not give a conclusive view that one is abusing drugs.

Someone abusing drugs will show extreme personality changes. A well mannered who suddenly becomes violently angry or very hostile when slightly provoked may be using drugs. On another case, an outgoing individual who becomes withdrawn or avoids activities that he was previously involved in can indicate that things have changed. This change can be as a result of drug abuse.

Most people using drugs stop spending time with those not using drugs. They turn their attention to people with the same behavior. Paying attention to the company they keep can tell if one is using drugs. Listening to what they are talking about is important. Be keen on their conversations. They may not necessarily imply that they consider drug use appropriate. Some will try to talk of how drug use is wrong in an attempt to deceive others.

Problems at work or declining grades are another sign. The performance of people with drug abuse issues is a major problem. Drug addicts have deteriorated personal hygiene. They tend to have a lot of legal problems as well, such as arrests for stealing, multiple DUI's or disorderly conduct. Do not let this sign pass unnoticed.

Drug Abuse Treatment

Treatment for addicts involves a number of steps. The first step should be withdrawal therapy. This therapy is a stepwise detoxification plan aimed at helping the recovering addict to quit taking the addictive drugs fast and safe. Detoxification is an ongoing process of reducing the drug dose or substituting the drug temporarily with other substances with less severe effects. After successful detoxification follows the second step which is aimed at helping the ex-addict to remain sober and fight the urge to use drugs. It will involve counseling, self-help group meetings and addiction treatment programs.

Counseling

This greatly helps an ex-addict to resist the temptation to revert to the old habits. Counseling can be conducted by a psychologist, psychiatrist or addiction counselor. Behavior therapies can help in coping with drug cravings. The ex-addict is provided with suggestions on strategies to avoid drugs, prevent relapse and ways of dealing with a relapse in case it occurs. The family can take part in counseling. This aids in developing better communication skills and shows that the family is ready to support. Counseling involves talking about the issues affecting the ex-addict such as legal problems, relationships with friends and family and their job as well.

Treatment Programs

They include therapy and educational sessions, all aimed at preventing relapse and establishing sobriety. An individual fighting drug abuse can accomplish this through his or her family or group sessions.

Self-Help Groups

The self-help groups encourage the individual to be responsible persons. They try to foster self-esteem and self-acceptance. Most experts in the drug abuse and addiction field see addiction as a medical issue since it greatly affects both the body and brain. Others view it as a behavioral concern that needs to be solved through behavioral changes, self-knowledge and coping techniques. Some self-help groups embrace both views.

Some addicts choose not to get help from a support group. The chances of them reverting back to drug abuse are high in such a case. These individuals require advice on the importance of joining groups. During treatment, it is crucial to know the ex-addict's perception of a relapse. This way it will be easier to view a relapse as an ordinary part of the whole process rather than failure.