It is a new year and so heralds the return of the Mental Health Monday posts. Many of you know I am interested in mental as well as physical health – I believe they often go hand in hand, and I completed some of my degree modules in psychology and child psychology.

As a chronically ill woman who is on many types of medication, addiction is always something that has played on my mind. I have also been intrigued by it on a broader level and how people are unable to just stop something that is harming them – that is, until I grew, read and studied more and came to see mental health issues in the same way as physical health problems. Today, I am sharing a guest post about addiction and the different types of substance abuse disorders that exist.

What are the 6 types of substance abuse disorders?

Substance use disorders are difficult but curable problems. We can say that it leads to a person losing control over their use of substances. People with substance use problems can recover and lead new lives if they receive the right guidance.

Drugs, alcohol, and tobacco are examples of substances that are typically so addictive that those who use them often commit crimes in order to obtain them. This is why we need awareness of such issues, so let’s explore the 6 types of substance abuse disorders here.

1. Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)

Today’s population is far too dependent on alcohol and you know it happens when someone drinks too much alcohol, which causes issues for their body and mind.

It could be challenging for anyone with this illness to stop drinking. They could be motivated to drink more to satisfy their needs, even if it creates issues in their lives, which makes it a true struggle. This could have an impact on their ability to function effectively at work, their level of happiness, their general health, and their relationships with friends and family.

When alcohol consumption is out of control, seeking assistance is crucial if you or someone you love is struggling. The drug addiction Ohio is a valuable resource where you may get support and guidance from knowledgeable and compassionate individuals for recovery from alcohol.

2. Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)

Opioid use disorder is the term used to describe the improper use of opioid medications, such as strong medicines or illegal drugs like heroin. An individual with this disorder may become addicted to opioids and go through withdrawal symptoms if they use them excessively.

The opioid crisis has highlighted the gravity of this problem and how it affects public health in general. Treatment for opioid use disorder usually consists of conversation therapies along with medication-based therapy.

3. Stimulant Use Disorder

A person with stimulant use disorder consumes stimulants even when they are causing major problems for them. You might frequently make numerous attempts to stop but be unsuccessful. Stimulant use disorder interferes with functioning and impacts a person’s body, mind, and social relationships, just like other substance use disorders.

Chemicals that intensify emotions of pleasure and excitement, increase vitality and quicken pulse rates are released by stimulants like cocaine. When you use these harmful drugs in the wrong way, you develop a stimulant use disorder. These medications stimulate the dopaminergic system and can produce euphoric feelings, but do you know how harmful they are for you? These stimulants can cause major mental health issues, including paranoia, anxiety, and psychosis, and not just this; they can also cause serious physical issues like a serious cardiovascular disease if taken in excess or used over an extended period.

4. Cannabis Use Disorder

People with cannabis use disorder struggle to limit their marijuana usage, even when it becomes problematic. There is a lot of debate over the potential risks of cannabis use because the laws governing its use are always changing. Treatments for cannabis addiction frequently center on talking therapy to reduce or eliminate the drug’s use because some people may develop an addiction to it.

5. Hallucinogen Use Disorder

A condition known as hallucinogen use disorder can result from the overuse of hallucinogens, such as LSD or magic mushrooms. These drugs create delusions; thus, even if they are not highly addictive, they can nevertheless pose a risk to one’s mental health.

Certain people may experience persistent issues that interfere with their day-to-day functioning, such as emotional detachment from reality or unplanned flashbacks. Meeting with a counselor or other support person who can help manage the psychological effects of these hallucinogenic experiences is a common part of treatment to aid with this. To support mental health, it’s critical to recognize and treat hallucinogen use disorder.

6. Sedative, Hypnotic, or Anxiolytic Use Disorder

When taken excessively, this family of medications—which includes benzodiazepine-containing treatments for insomnia and anxiety—can have negative effects. A hypnotic, sedative, or anxiolytic use disorder could arise from abusing these medications. People would have to take more medication to get the same effect, which could lead to an over-reliance on it. People may get unwell when they try to quit.

Conclusion

You know substance abuse affects your whole life. You might suffer negative effects from this, as could those around you. It has the power to destroy finances and relationships. Misuse of drugs can result in major health issues, addiction, and even death. There should be greater awareness of and education about these issues. We also need to stop criticizing them and start helping others who are battling substance misuse instead. Being compassionate is always the proper thing to do, and helping these people will always enhance society for everyone.