You probably already know that substance abuse can affect the person struggling with it in many negative ways. Other than the impacts that are immediate and can cause harm in different situations, the long-term effects of substance abuse can be a lot worse than you can imagine.
Long-term effects can be physical, psychological, and spiritual. These problems can stay with someone for maybe a lifetime even after they recover from the substance use addiction. This is why it is crucial to know about them and prevent them before they happen or become worse.
At Sonas Recovery, we have many different programs that can help with controlling these complications.
The Physical Impact of Long-term Substance Abuse
Long-term substance abuse can affect the vital organs of the body & cause irreversible damage, including but not limited to:
Brain & Nervous System
When substances are used for a long time they can affect different parts of the brain & nervous system, leading to other complications in life. Because the brain gets used to functioning with these substances, when taken away the brain is unable to function normally. This can cause different mental health disorders & impair cognitive functions.
Heart & Cardiovascular Health
Many of these substances affect the body in different ways to change the way it works to achieve the desired effect. Some of them can have higher blood pressure, which can lead to heart issues and even heart failure. They can also affect the way the heart works and supplies blood to the organs leading to even more organ damage on top of cardiovascular issues.
Liver & Kidney Damage
Liver & Kidney are the main organs that metabolize most of what goes into our bodies. They also help get rid of things that are known as toxins in the body. Most of the substances become toxic in the body which is the reason for many of their effects experienced. Our kidneys & liver are actively trying to get rid of these toxins. This can cause them to focus on doing this mostly and interrupt their other functions, leading to many different diseases as well as kidney and liver damage
Respiratory Complications
Substances that are inhaled or smoked, such as tobacco, opioids, and methamphetamine, harm the respiratory system. Chronic use increases the risk of conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pneumonia. Opioid use, particularly in overdose situations, can depress breathing, leading to life-threatening respiratory failure.
Mental Health and Emotional Consequences
Drug and alcohol use can alter brain chemistry, affecting mood, behavior, and mental health. The brain’s reward system becomes dependent on the substance for pleasure, leading to increased cravings & a decreased ability to experience joy from everyday activities without their presence.
Chronic substance use often leads to the development of co-occurring mental health disorders. They can cause Anxiety, depression, and mood swings & Emotional instability. Stimulant drugs, such as methamphetamine, can even cause psychosis, hallucinations & paranoia.
Social and Relational Consequences
One of the most significant effects is the strain on relationships. Trust is often broken due to dishonesty, secrecy, and unpredictable behavior. Many patients struggling with addiction isolate themselves, withdrawing from social interactions and support networks. Over time, this isolation can lead to loneliness & another cause for increased substance use.
In the workplace, addiction can result in poor performance, missing days at work, and even job loss. Legal problems, such as arrests for DUI or possession, are common and can lead to serious legal & financial issues.
Treatment Options at Sonas Recovery
At Sonas Recovery, we offer a comprehensive range of treatment options designed to address both the physical and mental impacts of addiction.
Our Outpatient Program (OP) provides a flexible treatment option, allowing clients to attend therapy sessions while maintaining daily responsibilities. It’s ideal for those who need support but also have daily responsibilities.
For patients who need more intense care, our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) offers multiple therapy sessions each week, providing a higher level of support. This program helps clients build coping skills and work through underlying issues that contribute to addiction.
The Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) offers a comprehensive day-long treatment option. This is helpful to those with severe addiction issues who require intensive care without the need for overnight stays. This program includes medical supervision, therapy, and holistic treatments to address the root causes of addiction.
At Sonas Recovery, we also specialize in Dual Diagnosis Treatment, addressing both substance abuse and co-occurring mental health disorders. This approach heals the patient as a whole instead of focusing on addiction itself alone.
Take the First Step Towards Healing Today
The long-term effects of substance abuse can be worrying & dangerous. At Sonas Recovery, we’re here to help you reclaim your life. Our compassionate team realizes the challenges you’re going through and is ready to guide you every step of the way.
reach out today to learn more about our treatment programs & start your addiction-free journey toward a healthy future.
FAQs
Can addiction cause permanent liver and kidney damage?
Yes, long-term substance abuse can severely damage the liver and kidneys, leading to conditions such as cirrhosis, liver failure, and chronic kidney disease due to the buildup of toxins.
What mental health disorders are linked to substance abuse?
Substance abuse is often linked to co-occurring mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, which may require dual diagnosis treatment.
What is the difference between addiction and dependency?
Addiction is characterized by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequences, while dependency refers to the physical reliance on a substance, causing withdrawal symptoms when it is not used.
Can the long-term effects of addiction be reversed?
Some long-term effects, like liver damage or cognitive impairment, may be irreversible. However, many physical and mental health issues can improve with sustained recovery and treatment.
What treatment options are available at Sonas Recovery for long-term substance abuse?
Sonas Recovery offers a range of programs, including Outpatient (OP), Intensive Outpatient (IOP), Partial Hospitalization (PHP), and Dual Diagnosis treatment, addressing both addiction and mental health needs.