Drug Addiction Effects
To say that drug addiction impacts the life of the afflicted individual is a huge understatement. There is almost no aspect of a person’s life that is not impacted negatively by a dependence on drugs. Drug addiction centers help these individuals before the effects of their condition threaten to overwhelm them.
What are the Physical Effects of Drug Addiction?
Drug addiction impacts the individual physically in a number of destructive ways, including:
- Heart disease. Certain drugs, such as cocaine, heroin and marijuana have been linked to heart disease after years of prolonged use.
- Liver damage. While the impact of alcoholism on one’s liver is well-documented, fewer people realize the damage that Vicodin addiction can have on this vital organ. Ingesting large amounts of the Ibuprofen found in Vicodin and Hydrocodone can cause liver damage or even liver failure
- Self-harm behavior. Individuals who get behind the wheel of a car while under the influence of drugs are putting their own physical health in jeopardy – as well as those around them.
What are the Psychological Effects of Drug Addiction?
Although not as directly life-threatening as the physical effects of drug addiction, the psychological impact of dependency can wreak an equally devastating toll on the individual and his family. Some of the most damaging psychological effects include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Paranoia
- Delusions of grandeur
- Irritability and sudden mood swings
In addition to the information listed above, there are also a number of social issues that can arise as a result of drug addiction. Relationships may falter because of a loss of trust over drug use. Individuals may engage in criminal or unethical behavior in order to obtain more drugs. In fact, many government agencies use criminal statistics to track the levels of drug addiction in different parts of the country.
If you are looking for help with drug addiction, contact our helpline today for a private consultation. Just call and you’ll be connected with a kind, caring professional who can help you find drug addiction treatment in your area. It may be the most important call you ever make.
