Using multiple substances at once is a form of substance abuse that many people don’t recognize. Polysubstance abuse often develops as people seek to enhance one substance’s effects or counteract the negative effects of another. While it’s not always as dangerous as abusing a single substance, polysubstance abuse can be more difficult to detect and treat. Learning more about what polysubstance abuse is, how it develops, the signs of it, and the treatment options available can help you or a loved one recognize and get help for their addiction.
Calvary Healing Center offers substance treatment in Phoenix, Arizona that can help you or a loved one heal. Call 888.492.5113 today to get started on your journey to recovery.
What Is Polysubstance Abuse?
Polysubstance abuse is the abuse of multiple substances, such as alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications. Individuals who use polysubstances often mix different types of drugs to experience an enhanced effect. This can lead to risky behaviors such as drinking and driving or taking too many pills at once, which can have severe consequences.
For example, someone might mix alcohol with painkillers to increase the high. This is particularly dangerous since both substances are depressants, meaning they slow down the body’s functions. These types of combinations can lead to overdose or even death in some cases.
How Does Polysubstance Abuse Develop?
Polysubstance abuse typically develops when individuals seek to augment the effects of one substance or to counteract the negative effects of another. For example, someone may take prescription painkillers to counteract the effects of stimulants like cocaine or to enhance the effects of alcohol. However, this behavior is risky and can lead to addiction or severe health consequences.
Signs of Polysubstance Abuse
There are several signs of polysubstance abuse, including changes in behavior, physical health issues, and social and interpersonal problems. Some common signs include:
- Rapid changes in mood or behavior
- Disrupted sleep patterns
- Sudden weight changes
- Physical health issues like seizures, tremors, or heart palpitations
- Increased isolation and social withdrawal
- Legal or financial problems related to substance abuse
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it may be time to seek help.
How Addiction Treatment Can Help
Treating polysubstance abuse typically involves a combination of detoxification, therapy, and support groups. Detoxification is the first step in treating polysubstance abuse, as it helps individuals clear their bodies of toxins caused by substance abuse.
The next step is therapy, which is essential for treating the underlying causes of substance abuse. These therapies may involve behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), aimed at helping individuals uncover the root causes of their substance abuse.
Finally, support groups are an essential component of recovery from polysubstance abuse. These groups provide opportunities for people to connect with others who have experienced similar struggles and can offer support and encouragement during the recovery process.
Call Calvary Healing Center Today for Help with Polysubstance Abuse
If you or someone you love is struggling with polysubstance abuse, Calvary Healing Center can help. Our Phoenix-based substance treatment program provides a wide range of programs and therapies to help individuals on their journey to recovery. From detox to help manage withdrawal symptoms to individualized therapy sessions as part of inpatient or outpatient treatment, we are dedicated to helping our patients heal and reclaim their lives.
If you’d like to learn more about how Calvary Healing Center can help you or your loved one, call us at 888.492.5113 or reach out to us online today. We look forward to helping you start the journey toward recovery.