Signs of Drug Use in Men

There exists a stubborn and widespread misconception that associates addiction with poor personal judgment or an intrinsic moral failure. In stark contrast to this misguided belief, the scientific consensus categorically identifies substance use disorders as a neurobiological condition, a chronic disease that can potentially impact anyone, particularly those with a familial predisposition towards drug abuse or mental illness. As we observe Men’s Health Month, understanding and recognizing the precursory indicators of addiction can empower you to identify and intervene if someone you hold dear is teetering on the precipice of destructive consequences stemming from drug misuse.

Development of Tolerance to Drugs

In the context of substance use, tolerance delineates the neurological adaptation that occurs when an individual’s brain gets accustomed to the consistent presence of drugs. These psychoactive compounds are, by their very nature, agents of cognitive alteration, inciting the reward and pleasure centers in the brain to undergo structural and functional modifications. Consequently, the individual finds themselves needing to consume increasingly higher quantities of the substance to attain the same level of satisfaction or relief they initially experienced. This is the key reason why even therapeutic pharmaceuticals can foster addiction, particularly when individuals misuse these medications, diverging from the prescribed usage guidelines.

Experiencing Drug Cravings and Withdrawal Symptoms

Prolonged and consistent drug abuse invariably culminates in a physical and psychological dependence on the substance. In such a scenario, any attempt by your loved one to cease consumption will likely trigger intense cravings and a spectrum of withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can oscillate between mildly discomforting to perilously life-threatening, their severity often potent enough to impel a return to substance use, notwithstanding a firm resolution to quit.

Engaging in Irresponsible and Risky Behaviors

Psychoactive substances often cause a decrease in inhibitions and can foster an illusion of invincibility, which might prompt individuals to partake in risky activities such as driving under the influence, indulging in unprotected sexual activities or instigating physical altercations. A progressively deteriorating addiction could further prompt your loved one to resort to dishonesty or theft in order to sustain their drug habit – actions that could eventually culminate in significant legal or financial predicaments.

Erosion of Relationships and Social Connections

Duplicity and denial are recurrent themes in the narrative of substance use disorders, and these traits can systematically widen the chasm between a drug user and their close companions and family members. By prioritizing drug use over other hobbies, interests, and relationships, your loved one can find themselves in a state of increasing social isolation. As the addiction advances, they might exhibit a preference for solitary drug use, often concealed due to the shame and guilt associated with the magnitude of their addiction.

Susceptibility to Mental Health Disorders

Individuals grappling with addiction are often at a heightened risk of encountering mental health disorders, and the inverse is equally true. If your loved one is battling mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD, drug use might appear as a temporary sanctuary from their symptoms. Unfortunately, this misguided coping mechanism invariably exacerbates their mental health struggles, chipping away further at their psychological resilience and well-being.

Where Men Recover from Drug Addiction

The Last Resort Recovery Center is a distinguished, accredited addiction treatment facility specializing in gender-specific treatment for men. Our programming has been meticulously crafted around proven, evidence-based practices and the integration of the 12-step approach, providing a robust framework for men to overcome co-occurring disorders and navigate the path towards a healthy, drug-free life. Our comprehensive continuum of care comprises individual, group, and experiential therapies – inclusive of our acclaimed equine-assisted therapy program.

At The Last Resort, our skilled team collaborates with you to decipher and address the root causes underpinning your mental health challenges and substance use disorder. Our proven pathway to recovery encompasses accredited programming and rigorous treatment protocols designed to dismantle the cycle of addiction and enhance your overall well-being. To embark on this transformative journey towards recovery, we encourage you to contact us today.