The effects of drug addiction encompass disruptions to nearly every organ in the human body, alongside modifications to brain chemistry and function. Various drugs showcase distinctive detrimental impacts, yet prevalent effects of a substance use disorder entail:
Physical
- damaged immune system, increasing susceptibility to illness and infection
- heart conditions, including collapsed veins and heart attacks
- nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain / gastrointestinal damage
- liver damage / liver failure
- kidney damage / kidney failure
- lung disease
- seizures, strokes and brain damage
- withdrawal symptoms if drug is reduced or stopped
- fatal overdose.
Mental
- changes in memory and learning
- reduced concentration and decision-making abilities
- brain changes can lead to (or exacerbate) mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety
- permanent brain damage.
Social and behavioural
- decrease in performance at work / loss of employment
- social or recreational activities given up or reduced
- mood changes
- social withdrawal
- relationship problems / divorce
- difficulty maintaining personal hygiene
- incarceration
- homelessness
- legal / financial troubles
- increased impulsiveness and risky behaviours, including unprotected sex.
Recognizing the importance of seeking expert assistance and support is crucial, as the consequences of drug addiction can exacerbate without intervention, leading to adverse consequences in various aspects of our lives. By attaining sobriety, many of these consequences can be mitigated or undone. Optimal prevention of irreversible harm involves promptly seeking professional aid to address the addiction, thus enhancing our prospects for sustained recovery.
