Substance Abuse

Are you struggling with drug addiction and want help? Jehovahs Behavioral Care, led by Grace Fomunung, PMHNP, in Lilburn, Georgia, is here for you with substance abuse treatment. No matter how deep into darkness addiction has taken you, you can recover the light. You matter. To get started with therapy and science-based treatments, book a consultation with Jehovahs Behavioral Care online or over the phone today. 

What is substance abuse?

Substance abuse is a term that describes the pattern of using a legal or illegal drug to your detriment and the detriment of those around you. 

Some of the most heavily and frequently abused substances include:

• Alcohol
• Marijuana
• Methamphetamine
• Cocaine
• Opiates, such as heroin
• Prescription medications, including narcotics, anxiety medication, and stimulants

For some people, substance abuse can lead to substance abuse disorder. This illness alters your brain chemistry and makes it extremely difficult to get your drug use under control, causing a host of personal and interpersonal issues.

What are some symptoms of substance abuse disorder?

Examples of substance abuse disorder symptoms include behavioral changes like:

• Missing school or work and neglecting other obligations
• Maintaining your drug supply even when you can’t afford it
• Stealing to maintain a drug supply
• Withdrawing from friends and family to use the drug more
• Taking risks, such as driving under the influence or engaging in dangerous sexual encounters

Those around you may also notice symptoms like:

• Bloodshot eyes with constricted or dilated pupils
• Increased irritability 
• Heightened aggression
• Sudden changes in your social behavior

As your addiction grows, you must take more significant amounts of the drug to experience the same high. Likewise, you fixate on the drug, overwhelmed by your cravings for it, taking it one to several times daily.

Can I recover from substance abuse?

Though the task may seem insurmountable, like there’s no way out, with the right treatments and support, you can recover from substance abuse. 

One crucial and foundational part of substance abuse treatment is therapy to address the social and psychological factors that led to your substance abuse. By addressing the root causes of your substance abuse, you can learn healthy coping mechanisms and heal from past hurts. This will help you not only get sober but stay sober.

No matter where your addiction has taken you in the past, you are worthy of recovery. Jehovahs Behavioral Care, led by kind and experienced Grace Fomunung, PMHNP, offers counseling and science-based treatments in a non-judgmental, encouraging environment. If you’re ready to fight for your future, book an appointment online or over the phone today.