Substance abuse can have a wide range of adverse effects on the body and the mind. It can cause physical health problems such as liver and kidney damage, heart disease, lung damage, and brain damage. Further, it can also lead to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and psychosis. As a result, it can lead to social and economic problems such as job loss, financial issues, and so on. Let’s discuss some of these effects briefly:
Physical Health Problems
Misusing any substance over its permitted limit can lead to numerous physical problems. For example, alcohol abuse can lead to liver and kidney damage and heart disease. People with smoking habits may have lung cancer, heart disease, and other respiratory problems. Opioid abuse can lead to respiratory depression, which can be fatal. Not just that, it can cause malnutrition and other health problems.
Mental Health Issues
Mental health problems like anxiety, depression, and psychosis can be caused due to substance abuse. For example, a person addicted to drugs may fall into depression or face other mental problems. It is because when we take drugs in excess, it can lead to changes in the brain, mood, and behavior.
Cognitive Impairment
People having stress and anxiety due to substance misuse may have problems learning and remembering information. Their ability to pay attention and make decisions may be affected adversely. This can disrupt their daily lives, and they may have problems remembering even the basic things.
Social and Economic Problems
Substance abuse can cause social and economic problems for you. For example, people who abuse drugs or alcohol may have difficulty keeping a job due to irregularity or misconduct at their workplace. Additionally, it can also lead to financial problems, as many people may spend money on drugs instead of paying for basic necessities.
Death Due to Addiction
What starts as a one-time experience of trying alcohol for teenagers and adults can become an addiction and lead to overdose, which can be fatal. Every year, many individuals who overdose on drugs go under respiratory depression, leading to death.
Legal Problems
Consuming and selling illegal substances can lead to legal issues. People who abuse drugs may also be charged for drug possession or drug trafficking. This can lead to fines, probation, and even jail.
Final Words
Substance abuse can have many negative effects on a person’s life. It can lead to physical and mental health issues, cognitive impairment, and social problems. It can also lead to addiction which becomes difficult to overcome. If you know someone who is suffering from substance dependency and needs help, visit our drug rehab center in Jacksonville.