Most drug addicts confess that they started taking drugs due to peer pressure. It was a harmless experimental phase but escalated to a dependency on drugs. The euphoria associated with the ‘high’ of drug use becomes an obsession, and eventually, addiction takes over. A person’s life then revolves around the need to procure and use drugs, regardless of the consequences. The physical and mental effects of drug addiction include:
Deterioration of Physical Health
Regular drug use leads to physical dependence and tolerance. As the body adapts to the presence of the drug, it requires more of the substance to achieve the desired effect. More usage can lead to heart problems, lung damage, liver disease, and brain damage.
Drug addicts have a poor appetite, leading to malnutrition and other health problems. Finding a drug rehab near me before the issues escalate is a sure way to protect your health.
Psychological Problems
Drug addiction causes psychological problems such as depression, anxiety, and paranoia. These can worsen with time and lead to suicidal thoughts. Drug addicts often have low self-esteem and are easily manipulated by others.
Psychological problems escalate as drug addicts are more prone to physical and sexual abuse. They also tend to neglect their responsibilities, leading to job loss and financial instability.
Impaired Judgment
The most dangerous effect of drug addiction is impaired judgment. It leads to poor decision-making, which can have life-threatening consequences. Drug addicts take unnecessary risks, engage in criminal activities, and put their lives and the lives of others at risk. Impaired judgment leads to family neglect, social isolation, and loss of relationships.
Relationship Problems
The most apparent sign that drug addiction is taking over your life is its impact on your close relationships. Drug addicts will do anything to get their hands on drugs, even stealing from friends and family, lying, and cheating. They become isolated from the people who care about them and often have trouble maintaining healthy relationships. Drug abuse leads to divorce, child abuse, and domestic violence.
Work-Related Problems
Drug addiction can lead to job loss, as addicts often cannot maintain a steady job. They may call in sick often, show up late, or be unable to focus on work. As their addiction worsens, they may start to steal from work or engage in other criminal activities. These behaviors can lead to a downward spiral, as addicts become unemployed and homeless. It gets harder to find employment when you have a criminal record.
Financial Problems
Drug addiction is an expensive habit, as addicts often spend large amounts of money on drugs. This can lead to financial instability and even bankruptcy. Drug addicts may also steal money from loved ones or engage in other criminal activities to get cash for drugs.
Lack of employment or the inability to hold down a job makes it difficult to pay for drugs, take care of responsibilities and live a meaningful life. Some end up becoming homeless.
Social Problems
Drug addiction can cause social problems such as isolation, lack of friends, and social anxiety. Drug addicts often feel uncomfortable in social situations and find it hard to make friends. As their addiction progresses, they may become more withdrawn and spend more time alone. Drug addicts may also engage in risky behaviors, putting themselves and others in danger.
Legal Problems
Drug abuse can lead to legal problems such as arrest, jail time, and loss of driver’s license. Addicts often engage in criminal activities to get money for drugs. Once they’re released, it isn’t easy to find employment and housing. It can lead to a life of crime, as they find it a challenge to break the cycle.
Death
The most severe consequence of drug addiction is death. This can be from an overdose, accidents, or health problems related to drug use. In 2019, at least 71000 people died from a drug overdose.
Drug Addiction is a Serious Problem
Drug addiction can have a devastating effect on your life. The short-term happiness quickly fades after long-term use. Don’t take a drug addiction lightly. It can turn into a life-threatening addiction fast. If you or someone you know is struggling with drug addiction, get help as soon as possible.
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