COLUSA COUNTY RECOVERY
Digital Recovery For The Modern Age
Top Ten Most Used Drugs
Drug addiction is a serious issue affecting millions of Americans. Multiple studies indicate that in rural communities, the opioid overdose rate is 45% higher than in cities, per capita. Around 33% of people aged 12-20 living in rural areas abuse/use alcohol, compared to 28.5% of those living in big cities.
To effectively combat this growing problem, we must build a stronger, more comprehensive, and diverse support network, that includes not only rehabs and mental health providers, but also utilizes local peer-based recovery organizations, and embraces collaborative efforts involving area churches, schools and our court system. By uniting these essential community components, we can work together to address these challenges within our own rural community.
In this introduction, we will explore the ten most commonly used drugs and their effects on individuals' lives and society as a whole. Understanding the prevalence and impact of these ten most used drugs is crucial in addressing addiction and providing effective treatment options for those in need. By raising awareness, we can work towards creating a healthier and drug-free society.
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Nicotine (Tobacco): Although nicotine may not be as damaging as other drugs, it is a serious addiction due to the widespread availability of tobacco products. Despite its gradual effects, tobacco use claims more lives than any other substance.
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Alcohol: Alcohol, socially acceptable and legal, presents a significant challenge due to its potential for abuse and addiction. Alcohol abuse leads to various health risks, including alcohol overdose and drunk driving accidents.
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Marijuana: With the legalization of marijuana in several states, its social acceptance has increased. However, its growing strength has contributed to higher addiction rates, making it the most commonly used drug in the US.
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Painkillers: Prescription painkillers such as Vicodin and Oxycontin, though intended to alleviate pain, can be highly addictive. Many individuals become addicted to these drugs without realizing the issue until they attempt to stop using them.
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Cocaine: The rate of overdose deaths involving cocaine has increased significantly in recent years, impacting individuals of various age groups. The use of crack cocaine, a cheaper and more intense form, contributes to crippling addictions.
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Heroin: Overcoming heroin addiction is incredibly challenging due to severe withdrawal symptoms. Treatment for heroin addiction typically involves a combination of medications and therapy, and the risk of contracting diseases through needle-sharing poses further concerns.
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Benzodiazepines: Prescribed for managing stress and anxiety, benzodiazepines such as Xanax and Valium can lead to addiction without individuals realizing it until they become unable to function without the drug. Withdrawals from benzodiazepines can be dangerous without proper medical assistance.
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Stimulants: Stimulants, ranging from prescription drugs like Ritalin to illicit substances like methamphetamine, are highly addictive. Building tolerance to these drugs can lead to increased risk and overdose.
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Inhalant Drugs: Inhalant addiction is particularly dangerous as these substances are explosive and toxic. Immediate consequences such as death or hospitalization can occur, and lingering effects in the brain and body make recovery challenging.
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Barbiturates (Sedatives): Prescribed as sleeping pills, barbiturates like Ambien and Lunesta can lead to addiction, especially when users develop tolerance. The mind-altering effects of sleeping pills contribute to their addictive nature.
Red-Flags: Know the Signs of Emotional and Mental Relapse
Being able to recognize the signs of relapse will enable you to ask for help quickly when it’s needed most. Common signs of emotional relapse often include mood swings, isolating oneself, being angry or defensive, and poor eating and sleeping habits. Signs of mental relapse include fantasizing or thinking about using drugs or alcohol -
glamorizing past use, lying about your feelings or behaviors, and hanging out with old drug-abusing friends. It is important to be aware of how you’re feeling, emotionally and physically. Feeling anxious, depressed, or angry is a normal part of life, but strong emotions like these can sometimes be detrimental to an addict in recovery. If you’re newly sober, it’s very important to be aware of your emotions and find healthy ways to cope with them, such as going for a walk with your dog, attending an online meeting, spending time with your sober friends, supportive relatives, or with your church family. Although you’ll have good days and bad days, maintaining a sense of self-awareness can help you tackle personal issues before they morph into a potential relapse. Bottom line - we use over nothing and share about everything that impacts our recovery.
