What is Substance Abuse?

Substance abuse isn’t something you should take lightly. It occurs when you use alcohol, prescription medicine, and other legal and illegal substances too much or in the wrong way.

Substance abuse differs from addiction. Many people with substance abuse problems are able to quit or can change their unhealthy behavior. Addiction, on the other hand, is a disease. It means you can’t stop using even when your condition causes you harm.

Commonly Abused Substances

1. Alcohol
2. Caffeine
3. Cannabis
4. Hallucinogens (including phencyclidine)
5. Inhalants
6. Opioids
7. Sedatives, hypnotics or anxiolytics
8. Stimulants
9. Tobacco
10. Other or unknown

So, is substance abuse problem only limited to youngsters or adults in India? Substance abuse is not limited to any specific demographic; it can affect people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. However, some populations, such as adolescents, are more vulnerable to falling victim to this harmful behaviour.

Understanding Substance Use Disorder (SUD)

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a complex condition in which there is uncontrolled use of a substance despite harmful consequences. People with SUD have an intense focus — sometimes called an addiction — on using a certain substance(s) such as alcohol, tobacco, or other psychoactive substances, to the point where their ability to function in day-to-day life becomes impaired. People keep using the substance even when they know it is causing or will cause problems.

Repeated substance use can cause changes in how the brain functions. These changes can last long after the immediate intoxication wears off. Intoxication is the intense pleasure, euphoria, and calm that is caused by the substance; these symptoms are different for each substance. With continued use of a substance, tolerance can develop, where someone may require larger amounts in order to fell these effects. Additionally, discontinuing use can lead to symptoms of withdrawal and intense cravings to return to use, often experienced as anxiety.

People with a substance use disorder may have distorted thinking and behaviors. Changes in the brain’s structure and function are what cause people to have intense cravings, changes in personality, abnormal movements, and other behaviors. Brain imaging studies show changes in the areas of the brain that relate to judgment, decision-making, learning, memory, and behavioral control.

SUD is characterised by a cluster of symptoms indicating impaired control over substance use. These symptoms may include:

• Strong cravings or an intense desire to use the substance
• Difficulty in controlling the amount or frequency of substance use
• Continued use despite harmful consequences to physical or mental health
• Withdrawal symptoms when substance use is reduced or stopped
• Devoting significant time and effort to obtaining, using, or recovering from substance use
• Neglecting important life responsibilities due to substance use.

Role of Rehabilitation Centres

If you have a tough time understanding what a de-addiction centre is, then let us simplify it for you. Drug de-addiction centres, also known as rehabilitation or treatment centres, play a vital role in combating substance abuse and offering treatments for addicts.

These centres provide a structured environment and evidence-based treatments for people with substance use disorders to help them cope with addiction and lead drug-free lives.

The Primary Goals of De-Addiction Centers Include:

• Detoxification: Safely managing withdrawal symptoms under medical supervision
• Counselling and Therapy: Individual and group therapy sessions to address the psychological aspects of addiction. Utilising Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for identifying and modifying unhealthy substance use-related patterns and integrating Relapse Prevention to equip individuals with coping strategies post-treatment within a holistic approach that addresses underlying emotional issues.

Substance Abuse Treatment

The substance abuse treatment should be tailored to each individual’s specific needs and circumstances. Different substances may demand specific methods, and when there are simultaneous mental health disorders, they must be treated parellally. Additionally, family involvement and support can significantly impact an individual’s journey to recovery.

Counselling

Addiction counselling forms a fundamental part of the treatment process. Professional counsellors work closely with individuals to address the emotional, psychological, and social factors contributing to their substance abuse.

Counselling sessions may include:

1. Individual Psychotherapy: Providing one-on-one counselling to address personal challenges, develop coping strategies, and work towards recovery goals.
2. Family Therapy: Engaging family members in therapy sessions to create a supportive and understanding environment that contributes to the individual’s recovery.
3. Group Therapy: Facilitating sessions where individuals come together to share their experiences, provide mutual support, and gain insights from various perspectives.

Rehabilitation for Substance Abuse

Rehabilitation for substance abuse aims to manage not only the physical aspect of addiction but also the mind and body of the individual. Rehabilitation centres offer a structured environment that allows individuals to break free from dependency and learn healthier coping mechanisms for dealing with life’s challenges.

In a rehabilitation space, individuals undergo detoxification for their bodies and manage withdrawal symptoms under medical supervision. After detox, they engage in various evidence-based therapies and counselling sessions. These therapies help individuals discover and explore the root causes of their addiction, develop coping skills and build resilience.

The drug addiction rehabilitation process also emphasises the importance of healthy lifestyle changes. Nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness practices are incorporated to promote physical and mental well-being. Additionally, individuals participate in group therapy sessions, allowing them to connect with others who have similar experiences, build a support network and develop a sense of community.

To know more about the addiction treatment process at NuLifeLineCare Rehabilitation Centre in Dehradun, call us on +91–8958305058

Or visit: https://www.nulifelinecare.org/