Most people are familiar with the immediate or short-term effects of drug abuse, but did you know that over time, drug addiction’s long-term effects can be permanent, serious, and potentially life-threatening?
Regardless of how long you have engaged in substance misuse, it is never too late to end the downward spiral and protect your health from further damage. The compassionate team at BrightView can help you get your life back on track with outpatient drug addiction treatment.
To learn more about our evidence-based approach to healing, contact us at 888.501.9865.
The Short-Term Effects of Drug Abuse
Drug abuse can have immediate effects on your physical and mental health. Some symptoms or side effects you may experience when under the influence of drugs include:
- Drastic mood swings
- Impaired judgment
- Loss of coordination
- Lowered inhibition and increased risk-taking behavior
- Increased risk of injuries or accidents
- Respiratory depression
- Heart palpitations
One of the most serious effects of drug abuse is the risk of overdose, which can happen even if it is your first time using the drug.
What Are the Long-Term Effects of Drug Addiction?
Chronic drug abuse can eventually lead to addiction, which can have severe long-term consequences. When you become dependent on a substance, changes will take place in the brain’s chemistry and neural pathways, leading to:
- Emotional dysregulation
- Cognitive impairments
- Persistent drug cravings
- Worsening of existing mental health conditions
The long-term effects of drug addiction can also impact your physical health, increasing the risk of damage to your:
- Heart
- Lungs
- Liver
- Kidneys
- Veins
- Nasal tissue
- Skin
- Teeth and gums
Some of the above long-term effects depend on the drug type or delivery method. For example, injecting heroin can cause collapsed veins, while snorting cocaine can damage nasal tissue. And meth is well known for its devastating effects on one’s dental health, known as meth mouth. Regardless of which drug you use, you run the risk of harm to your overall health.
The consequences of long-term substance misuse can occur whether you use illicit or prescription drugs, so if you are prescribed an addictive medication by your doctor, it is important to use the medication strictly as directed. If you start to notice that your medication no longer provides the relief it once did or you experience uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms when not taking your medication, it is strongly advised that you speak with your provider right away. They may need to adjust your dosage or switch your medication to prevent a full-blown addiction.
Other Concerns of Long-Term Drug Addiction
While the effects of long-term drug addiction on your mental and physical health are considerable, it can also wreak havoc on other areas of your life. Here are a few examples:
Relationship Issues
When you are addicted to a drug, it starts to become a priority in your life, and you may put it above all else. Of course, this is not conducive to healthy relationships, and you may experience a breakup, divorce, or estrangement as a result.
Legal Troubles
Since drug abuse can lower inhibitions and make you more likely to participate in risky behaviors, you can get into hot water with the law. Operating a vehicle while under the influence or getting into an altercation can mean losing your license or spending time in court or jail.
Financial Problems
Legal troubles from long-term drug addiction often correlate with financial problems. Obtaining a lawyer, losing time at work, or being unable to get to your job if you lose your license can all strain your finances. Additionally, the money spent on drugs can add up quickly and make it more difficult to make ends meet.
Call Today to Heal From Drug Addiction’s Long-Term Effects at BrightView
You deserve to live a life free from drug addiction, and with the help of BrightView, you can achieve it. If you are ready to start your recovery today, contact us at 888.501.9865 or online to get started.
