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As per a 2020 annual report, 14.5% of the United States population reported having a substance use disorder in the past year. These numbers highlight this pervasive issue, underscoring the need for increased awareness of its far-reaching impact on the body and mind.

People resort to substances for various reasons: some seek the temporary feeling of euphoria, while others use them to cope with stress and problems. However, these effects are often faux, brief and can lead to more detrimental consequences of drug abuse. Let’s delve into the details of what substance use disorder is, explore its negative effects, and discuss how someone struggling with it can seek help.

Substance Use Disorder (SUD)

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a clinical term for the prolonged and excessive use of a substance in higher doses, resulting in both physical and psychological dependence. In this context, a substance is defined as a psychoactive substance, which alters mental functioning and has significant potential for abuse, including addiction. Substances broadly include nicotine, alcohol, sedatives, opioids, cannabis, stimulants, hallucinogens, hypnotics, and other illicit chemicals. When SUD progresses to severity, it becomes known as drug addiction.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) recognizes SUD as a mental health disorder and has outlined specific criteria. These include a problematic pattern of excessive substance use leading to significant impairment or distress in personal, social, and professional life. Individuals with SUD may also be unable to control or stop substance use despite the negative consequences it may have on their lives. They tend to continue taking it trying to avoid withdrawal symptoms and develop tolerance over time.

Are Drug Abuse and Substance Use Disorders the Same?

The terms “drug abuse” and “substance use disorder” are often used interchangeably. However, they do not exactly refer to the same concept and differ in scope and clinical implications. Drug abuse is a broader term that generally refers to the misuse of drugs or substances in a manner deviating from approved medical use, which is harmful. This can include recreational use, experimentation, or use in excessive quantities.

In contrast, substance use disorder is a proper clinical diagnosis outlined in DSM-5, as discussed above, characterized by a more severe and chronic form of substance misuse and chronic impairment. SUD involves a loss of control over substance use, leading to physical and psychological dependence.

Consequences of Substance Use on Health and Brain

Chronic substance use can lead to long-term health consequences on a person’s brain and body, including impaired functioning from cellular to higher levels. When an individual misuses illicit drugs, their body can become dependent on them, impacting normal functioning. The individual becomes accustomed to relying on drugs to the point that they feel unable to perform daily activities without them. With each subsequent use, there is an escalating need for the drug in greater amounts. This cycle resembles a black hole, dragging individuals deeper into substance use disorder.

Physical Consequences of Substance Abuse on the Body

SUD carries significant health consequences, impacting various regulatory systems within the body. There are a range of mental and physical effects of drug abuse, influencing the following organs and systems:

  • Cardiovascular system: Physiological effects of drugs, such as cocaine or methamphetamine, can increase heart rate and raise blood pressure, with an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, cardiomyopathy, and heart failure.
  • Gastrointestinal system: Substance abuse can result in gastrointestinal issues, including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Chronic alcohol abuse, in particular, can cause inflammation of the stomach lining (gastritis), pancreatitis, and severe damage to the intestines.
  • Respiratory system: Smoking and chronic inhalation of substances, like tobacco, cannabis, and cocaine, can damage the respiratory system leading to conditions such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or lung cancer. Additionally, opioid use can depress respiratory function, leading to respiratory failure and, in extreme cases, death.
  • Liver: Many substances are metabolized by the liver, and prolonged substance abuse can lead to liver damage or failure. Alcohol abuse is a primary risk factor for liver cirrhosis and hepatitis.
  • Kidneys: Certain substances can also adversely affect kidneys, which are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood, leading to drug-induced nephrotoxicity and kidney failure.
  • Muscular system: Chronic drug abuse can lead to muscle myopathy, weakness, and wasting.
  • Reproductive system: SUD can negatively impact fertility and reproductive health in both males and females. In men, it can specifically lead to low testosterone levels, diminished sperm quality, and erectile dysfunction. In women, SUD causes irregular menstruation and ovulation and the risk of pregnancy complications.
  • Urinary system: Some substances may cause bladder dysfunction or incontinence.

Effects of SUD on Brain

Substance use disorder can profoundly impact the brain, affecting its structure, function, and overall cognitive processes. The effects vary depending on the type of substance used, duration of use, and individual factors. Here are detailed effects on the neural system associated with substance abuse:

  • Reward system and dopamine pathways: Drugs often stimulate the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. Chronic substance use can disrupt this system, leading to decreased sensitivity to natural rewards and a higher likelihood of continued substance-seeking behavior.
  • Brain structure changes: Prolonged substance abuse can cause structural changes in the brain areas such as the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and hippocampus.
  • Neurotransmitter imbalance: Side effects of drug addiction include disruption of the brain chemistry and natural balance of neurotransmitters. For example, opioids depress the central nervous system, while stimulants like cocaine increase levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine. This imbalance can contribute to mood disorders, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
  • Neuroplasticity changes: Substance abuse can alter the brain’s neuroplasticity, affecting its ability to adapt and reorganize. This can make it challenging for the brain to recover normal functioning even after cessation of substance use.

How Do Drugs Affect Behavior and Mental Processes

The chemical alterations in the brain due to SUD can also manifest in noticeable changes in behavior patterns, mental health, and overall cognitive functioning. This, in turn, poses significant challenges to an individual’s well-being and daily life.

Behaviors

SUD can adversely affect the behavior patterns in daily life, placing individuals at risk and compromising their overall well-being. Those grappling with SUD may experience notable behavioral changes, including:

  • Impaired judgment: Substance abuse can impair cognitive judgment, leading to poor impulsive decisions. This can include unprotected sex, driving under the influence, or engaging in criminal activities.
  • Risky behaviors: The disinhibiting effects of certain substances can increase the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors, contributing to accidents, injuries, or exposure to infectious diseases.
  • Aggression and violence: Some substances can heighten aggression and contribute to violent behavior. It poses not only a risk to the individual but also to those around them.
  • Compulsive drug-seeking behavior: In SUD, the desire for the substance becomes compulsive, leading to a preoccupation with obtaining and using it. It can result in neglect of personal and professional responsibilities.
  • Withdrawal and negative reinforcement: The fear of withdrawal symptoms can drive continued substance use as individuals seek to avoid the discomfort associated with stopping. This negative reinforcement contributes to the cycle of addiction.
  • Social isolation and relationship strain: SUD can lead to social withdrawal and strained relationships. Individuals may prioritize substance use over social interactions, leading to isolation and damaged connections with family and friends.

Mental Processes

SUD jeopardizes mental functioning and well-being, taking a toll on various mental processes. Some of these processes affected by SUD include:

  • Cognitive impairment: Substance abuse can have profound effects on cognitive function leading to memory loss, reduced attention span, impaired concentration, and difficulties in problem-solving.
  • Mental health disorders: SUD often coexists with mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and schizophrenia. It can exacerbate pre-existing mental health conditions or contribute to the development of new problems.
  • Psychiatric symptoms: Substance-induced psychiatric symptoms are not uncommon. Some substances can induce hallucinations, paranoia, or psychosis. For instance, prolonged methamphetamine use may lead to hallucinations and delusions, while heavy alcohol consumption can result in alcoholic psychosis.
  • Mood and emotional regulation: Substance abuse can disrupt the brain’s natural mechanisms for mood and emotional regulation. Individuals with SUD may experience the emotional effects of drugs as extreme mood swings, heightened irritability, and an overall inability to cope with stress.

How to Get Help

The first step in getting help for substance use disorder is recognizing the signs and effects of drug abuse. Look out for sudden changes in behavior, such as increased secrecy, withdrawal from social activities, or neglect of responsibilities, as these can be indicators of substance abuse. SUD can also manifest as physical signs like changes in appearance, unexplained weight loss or gain, and deteriorating hygiene. However, it is important to note that these signs may not always indicate SUD.

Seeking Professional Help

The next step is to seek professional help from healthcare providers who will assess your situation in detail and devise a management approach. Healthcare professionals you can reach out to for drug addiction treatment include:

  • Primary Care Physicians
  • Mental Health Professionals
  • Addiction Specialists

Treatment Options

Treatment for substance use disorder is multifaceted and tailored to individual needs. It often involves a combination of medical, behavioral, and psychosocial interventions depending on the substance in question. Here are common treatment options:

  • Detoxification: The first step in many treatment programs is detoxification. It involves safely managing withdrawal symptoms as the body clears itself of the substance.
  • Behavioral therapies: Therapeutic interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational enhancement therapy (MET), help individuals identify and change harmful behaviors and thought patterns.
  • Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): MAT involves a combination of medicines (such as buprenorphine, acamprosate, and injectable naltrexone) with behavioral therapies and counseling to address substance use disorders. It is most commonly employed for alcohol and opioid use disorders.
  • Telehealth services: There are various telehealth platforms offering counseling, therapy, and support groups, with the advantage of flexibility and accessibility to people struggling with SUD.

Support Groups and Counseling

Various support groups are available for individuals dealing with substance use disorder. These groups offer a supportive environment, shared experiences, and guidance from peers who understand the challenges of drug and alcohol addiction. Some well-known support groups include:

  • Community-based organizations (CBOs): CBOs are non-profit organizations or grassroots groups like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) that operate at the local level. They help create a comprehensive approach to substance abuse prevention and treatment through counseling, outreach programs, support groups, and community-based initiatives.
  • State-funded treatment programs: State-funded programs aim to make treatment options like outpatient counseling, residential rehabilitation, detoxification services, and medication-assisted treatment accessible to individuals regardless of their financial situation. They often provide sliding-scale fees or free services based on income.
  • 12-Step support programs: Programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) provide a supportive environment for individuals going through the same situation to share their experiences, seek guidance, and work towards recovery.
  • SMART Recovery program: SMART Recovery offers a science-based, self-help approach to recovery, focusing on building motivation, coping with urges, managing thoughts and behaviors, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle.

Conclusion

Substance abuse is a pervasive issue that affects individuals from all walks of life, leading to various health problems caused by drugs that extend far beyond the initial drug use. Understanding how substances affect behavior and mental processes is crucial in unraveling the intricate web of consequences that individuals face when grappling with substance abuse. It becomes imperative to prioritize prevention, intervention, and comprehensive treatment strategies to address the intricate interplay between physical and mental health. However, it is important to have hope and know that recovery is possible with the right support and interventions.


Author: Dr. Bradley Noon is a medical professional currently working at MEDvidi, an online mental health center. He earned his undergraduate degrees in Biology and Chemistry in San Diego and graduated with Honors from The University of Georgia Medical School in 1995.