Dealing with Substance Abuse
The subject of substance abuse is a wide and sometimes over-complicated issue. The number of opinions, research, and lobbying to date is astronomical. There is not a day that goes by when someone is not writing about the harm, benefits, legalities, gains, losses, and so on.
Arguably, the truly important point is the individual. Is the person who is abusing any form of mind-altering substance doing better in life, or are things worsening? Each person will be in their own turmoil or euphoria. If you take a step-back regarding any issue related to abusing alcohol, cocaine, marijuana, meth, etc. You can see three ways people deal with their substance abuse.
THE FIRST IS TO CONTINUE USING
First and foremost, the simple answer is to keep using. At the onset, it is the solution for most people struggling with substance misuse. A known fact is that whenever a person attempts to stop using the substance, the side effects kick in. A phase known as withdrawal, which sometimes produces heavy, hard-to-deal-with symptoms and cravings.
Often it begins with the body. This can be obvious to anyone. Even habit eaters sense it when there is nothing sweet or salty around, the body will crave it. Provide the body with sufficient chemicals in a continuous manner, and it will naturally feel the need for them. When a person attempts to stop, the body backfires with cravings. These are represented by aches, pains, soreness, a sickly feeling, headaches, and other similar symptoms.
One will also find that it mentally weighs on the person’s psyche. Mentally, it eats away as a constant thought, sensation and feeling of ‘must have’. No matter how much one tries, the idea of using just won’t go away. By continuing to use the thought disappears, just like any withdrawal symptoms.
THE SECOND IS TO FIGHT THE SUBJECT – STOP, CAN’T STOP, RELAPSE, STOP…
Here you will notice a very obsessive behaviour. It is a direct attempt to address the issue on one’s own. Individuals who began to use illicit drugs for whatever reason did not think, “I am doing this line of coke and will become addicted to cocaine.”
Fighting the subject comes at some point in the downward spiral of substance abuse. Here are some examples of fighting the subject :
I am drinking now, but I will not tomorrow. Yet tomorrow comes, and I am at home with a beer. This is my last joint after that, I am done, while on my way to the dealer’s house. This is an attempt to deal with substance abuse.
The person is fighting it every other day. Often, it comes after a weekend of abuse. Monday arrives, and getting up to work is not easy. The effects of the substance still linger in the system. By Wednesday, the craving hit, and even though the person didn’t want to, they use. This can go on for many months and years.
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THE THIRD IS TO DISCONNECT AND FACE IT HEAD-ON.
The third approach to addressing substance abuse is to disconnect. The most effective method involves entering a detox program. Where the individual is separated from the substance and provided with time to eliminate its lingering effects from the body. This is not always an easy step for many people. However, with the support of professional detox counsellors, one can overcome cravings and deal with physical discomfort.
In some cases, a more drastic approach, such as medical detox, may be required. When a person has been abusing opioids, medical drugs, or alcohol for an extended period, it can be risky for them to quit. Medical support is necessary to safely withdraw the person from the substance.
EFFECTIVELY FACING THE ISSUE
But it doesn’t end after detox. Rehabilitation and counselling are highly beneficial when confronted directly. Addressing the reasons for substance abuse, identifying the triggers, and acquiring coping mechanisms are crucial for recovery.
All of these will enable greater control over the situation. Understanding why, who, and what will equip the person with certainty and tools to help them remain clean and sober.
Regardless of the substance in question, a person can
- continue to use,
- remain in a state of constant struggle(fighting), or
- face it.
Anyone experiencing addiction is likely in one of these situations with their substance use.
Marc J. Bernard
Author,
Substance Use Disorder & Recovery Professional,
Referral & Consultation Counsellor
