Studies show that 1 in 7 Americans may experience a substance use disorder. Some may use drugs to help cope with stress, trauma, or to help with mental health issues. Others may develop use disorder after misusing opioid medication prescribed by their doctors. Either way, taking drugs over time increases the chances of becoming addicted.
What happens when people take drugs? Chemicals flood the reward system in the brain and cause the user to repeat behaviors that may feel good in the moment but are unhealthy and may put them at greater risk of harm.
Over time, the brain adapts to continued drug use by developing a tolerance. When that happens, it begins to require more and more of a drug to feel the same result. Not only does this lesson the brain's ability to resist temptation, but it can also affect the amount of pleasure a person receives from normal, healthy activities like enjoying food or the company of others.
Education and increased awareness of the harm of using substances, along with loving support from parents, caregivers, and friends, can help prevent substance use disorders. Continue to stay informed so that you can make better, healthier decisions!
No comments:
Post a Comment