While any drug has the potential to be misused, not all drugs can create the same havoc that commonly abused drugs can. Illegal drugs and many prescription drugs are more likely to be abused than others based on how they interact in the body, making them naturally more addictive and more prone to misuse.
At Findlay Recovery, we help people through all stages of the recovery process and with detox and recovery from the most commonly abused substances. Contact an admissions counselor to see how we can help you today.
What are the Most Commonly Abused Drugs?
The most commonly abused drugs fall into several different categories; Opioids and opiates, stimulants, CNS depressants, and mood-altering drugs.
Opiates and opioids are commonly known as pain killers and work to block pain in the body. Individuals can take these drugs orally, inject, snort up the nose, or smoke. Common opioids include morphine, codeine, hydrocodone, and illegal drugs like heroin and fentanyl.
Stimulants cover both illegal and legal drugs as well. Cocaine, methamphetamines, and ADHD medication all have similar components that stimulate the brain and body, causing hyperfocus, increased movement (jitteriness), and increased heart rate and blood pressure.
CNS depressants are another commonly abused substance. CNS depressants work to depress the central nervous system (CNS) and are prescribed as an anti-anxiety medication to treat insomnia. These depressants are designed to help individuals function at a more regulated pace but are also addictive because of how they impact the brain.
Lastly, mood-altering drugs are commonly abused. Medications used to fight depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder are considered some of the most abused drugs because of how they are taken. Taking these drugs irregularly can lead to addiction, as the misuse can be detrimental to the individual’s overall mental health.
Alcohol is also a commonly abused substance that can lead to addiction. Binge drinking, drinking underaged, and mixing medication with alcohol are all dangerous and can be warning signs of addiction.
What are the Signs of Drug Addiction?
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, there are 11 different factors to consider when looking for signs that your loved one may be using drugs.
- Taking drugs longer or more frequently than planned. This can indicate an inability to stop use and be a warning for developing tolerance to a drug.
- Trying to stop but being unable. If your loved one has tried to stop using and has been unable to or has relapsed multiple times, it could indicate an inability to stop.
- Spends most of their time getting, using, or recovering from the drug.
- Cravings. This means the body has developed a want or need for the drug.
- They have become increasingly unreliable and nonresponsible. Missing deadlines and failing to remember or participate in assigned activities can also indicate an addiction.
- Continued use, even if it’s causing problems in your relationship or the relationship with a loved one.
- Giving up important activities because of drugs or problems related to use. This also includes avoiding conflict with others’ overuse.
- Continue use, even if it puts them in danger. Unfortunately, individuals who use drugs often find themselves in increasingly risky or dangerous situations that indicate a substance use problem.
- Continue use, even if it puts their physical and mental health at risk. Willingly risking psychological and physical health over a drug demonstrates the focus of their brain and body on use.
- Taking more of the drug to achieve the same effects.
- Withdrawal symptoms that can be stopped by using more of the drug.
While these factors are not guarantees, they offer insight into the life of an addict and the signs you can look for if you are worried about a co-worker or loved one.
How to Find Addiction Treatment Programs
Addiction treatment programs are designed to help individuals work through their problematic use and develop healthy coping and self-management skills. To find a program that is ideal for you, you must first know what is necessary to succeed. Many people find that an inpatient facility can provide the most accurate and supportive care when they are just starting their rehabilitation journey.
Findlay Recovery is the ideal choice for an individual in Ohio struggling with addiction. In our Ohio rehab, clients work through individualized treatment programs designed to meet their specific needs through comprehensive, holistic treatment.
Contact us today to see how we can help you or a loved one with their addiction.
