Unlike what some people believe, substance abuse isn’t a sign of a moral failing or lack of willpower, it’s often a response to stress, trauma, or other underlying challenges. In many cases, people aren’t aware that they have a problem, especially when they’re abusing a legal and socially acceptable substance like alcohol. Or, they may overuse prescription medications, but don’t realize they are developing a tolerance. People may abuse substances for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, it’s simply what they’ve grown up with because of family members, or they experimented at a young age and got used to it. Adults may abuse substances to cope with trauma or painful memories. However, substance abuse doesn’t help in the long term and can make stress worse. So, how does stress relate to substance abuse?
How Substance Abuse Affects Your Life
Substance abuse disorders and addictions affect every part of a sufferer’s life. The substance, even if it’s legal (alcohol, prescription drugs, or even caffeine), will harm their health. The more they use it, the more it damages their body.
Also, substance abuse often leads to financial difficulties. These substances aren’t free, and an abuser will go through much more than most people. It’s also more likely that someone who abuses substances gets in trouble with the law.
Even legal substances, such as alcohol, can affect your behavior in ways that may lead to legal problems, relationship conflicts, and even the loss of your job. Illegal substances will get you into legal trouble if you’re simply caught possessing or using them, which again may impact your work prospects.
Simply put, your entire life will become more difficult and full of stress.
Substance Abuse and Anxiety
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, as many as 20% of people diagnosed with an anxiety disorder may also have a substance abuse disorder. At first glance, it may seem that anxiety causes an individual to abuse substances, which is where this link comes from. However, it isn’t that simple.
When someone constantly misuses drugs or alcohol, their body will gradually develop a tolerance, meaning that they will have to increase the dosage for the same desired effects. However, many of these substances have a physiological effect on your body as well, which can cause symptoms of stress. While alcohol may provide temporary relief from anxiety, it can increase overall anxiety once the initial effects fade. This is mainly because alcohol dehydrates the body, which causes tension in the body. This effect is pronounced if you live with an anxiety disorder.
Marijuana and stimulants also increase anxiety. Someone who relies on marijuana to deal with anxiety will feel worse when they’re sober, leading to a stronger desire to use it even at inappropriate times. Stimulants are known for causing anxiety as they speed up the body’s central nervous system.
Someone who abuses substances may experience severe anxiety whenever they are sober. This leads down a slippery slope toward addiction.
How Does Stress Relate To Substance Abuse?
Overcoming substance abuse is rarely something people can do alone. Professional treatment provides the structure, support and medical expertise needed to make lasting change. Whether you’re just beginning to explore your options or you’re ready to take the next step, there is a program that fits your life and your goals.
At Evolve, we offer a range of treatment options designed to meet you where you are. Partial hospitalization provides intensive care without an overnight stay, while intensive outpatient care offers a similarly rigorous level of support with added flexibility. For those who need to maintain work, school or family commitments, our outpatient program provides professional guidance on a schedule that works for you.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
If you or someone you love is struggling with substance abuse, don’t wait. Reach out to our team today to learn which treatment program is the right fit. We’ll walk you through your options and help you find a path forward that works for your needs and your schedule.
Why Choose Evolve?
At Evolve, we understand that no two recovery journeys are the same. Our team of experienced clinicians works closely with each individual to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses the root causes of substance abuse. From partial hospitalization to flexible outpatient care, we provide compassionate evidence-based treatment at every stage of recovery. We are committed to helping you build a healthier and more fulfilling life.