Understanding substance abuse disorders

Substance-use disorder is a very broad term that includes many diseases and disorders associated with various substances — from those as commonplace as caffeine to inhaled aerosol propellants, LSD, phenobarbital and others.  

Alcohol, tobacco, sedatives, stimulants and opioids are frequently abused. What do all of these substances have in common? They stimulate the pleasure centers in the brain through a chemical called dopamine. These substances can change how the mind works, causing a “high” or intoxication. These substances can cause psychological and physical dependence that can lead to cravings and withdrawal symptoms.  

Here are some things to know:  

Alcohol 

Drinking too much alcohol harms your health. Excessive alcohol use led to more than 140,000 deaths and 3.6 million years of potential life lost each year in the U.S. from 2015 through 2019, shortening the lives of those who died by an average of 26 years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), excessive drinking was responsible for one in five deaths among adults aged 20-49 years. 

Tobacco  

The CDC reports tobacco is the No. 1 cause of preventable death in the United States. If Americans didn’t smoke, there would be half a million fewer deaths each year. One out of every five deaths in the U.S. (20 percent) are caused by using tobacco.

Sedatives 

What began with phenobarbital in the 1940s, and “Mother’s Little Helper,” or meprobamate, in the 1950s, has become an epidemic of sedative use and dependence today. Numerous prescription sedatives are on the market, many of which are very habit-forming and lead to deadly overdoses, particularly if combined with opioids.  

Stimulants 

Amphetamines are available in prescription form (Adderall, Ritalin, others). Methamphetamines and cocaine are illegal drugs.  

Opioids 

Opioids are the most addictive substances of all. According to the CDC, the epidemic of opioid use disorder in the U.S. has resulted in a skyrocketing death rate, with approximately 100,000 deaths per year from overdoses. Fortunately, opioid use disorder responds very well to treatment.  

If you’re struggling with addiction, or know someone who is, reach out for help. With the right plan, and the right treatment, anyone can end their dependency.