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Negative Effects of Drug Abuse and Addiction

Drug abuse is a disorder that can have a variety of negative health effects in both the short- and long-term. These effects can be mental and physical, and their intensity ranges from moderate to severe. Due to drug addiction, you can’t control the urge to use them, despite knowing how much harm they can cause. The earlier you get a drug addiction treatment, the more likely you can protect yourself from some of its dire consequences. Identifying the negative effects that alcohol abuse can have on your health can also help you get to the root of the problem and recover quickly.

Physical Effects

Psychoactive drugs such as alcohol contain chemical compounds that harm your body and mind. Alcohol consumption may lead to changes in coordination, improved sociability and feelings, or being more fresh or sleepy only for a short period. However, because of alcohol abuse, these effects may result in long-term changes such as anxiety, increased blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, digestive problems, liver diseases, and more. Certain physical effects vary among individuals depending on the dosage and length of use. Individuals consuming alcohol are more likely to have physical injuries or be involved in car accidents. In the worst-case scenario, they may attempt suicide and homicide.

Short-Term Physical Effects

Any kind of substance abuse will cause negative physical effects in the short term. For example, alcohol addiction results in rapid heartbeat, potential hypothermia, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting, as well as reddening of the face or skin and weakening body coordination. Despite affecting the body for a short period, these problems often lead to potential health risks.

Mental Effects

Continuous alcohol intake has a negative impact on your learning capabilities, behavior, consciousness, concentration, and memory. Alcohol can change your brain’s structure and function due to chronic use. This often leads to behavioral and cognitive changes that continue even after you give up on alcohol intake. Some of the common long-term effects include anxiety, depression, memory and learning problems, and social issues. Due to these mental effects, a person may lose interest in day-to-day activities, their job, and exercising. Oftentimes alcohol addicts end up stealing money for alcohol, lying, and worsening relationships with their loved ones.

For alcohol addiction treatment in Maryland, consult professionals at Suboxone Clinic. Our team at the addiction center comprises addiction psychiatrists and drug detox doctors. Contact us to book an appointment today.