Any substance, including alcohol or prescription medications, can negatively impact a person’s life if they’re abused. Unlike addiction, which is a disease, substance abuse issues can be corrected by the individual if they wish. Understanding when to seek substance abuse counseling can help these issues from impacting your life and developing into addiction.

What Is Substance Abuse?

Many intoxicants and other substances are relatively harmless when consumed in small doses. However, using these substances too often can harm your physical health and damage relationships. People in these situations are likely experiencing substance abuse.

Common signs of substance abuse may include a feeling that you should cut back on drinking or prescription medication. You might also feel ashamed about your substance use and find yourself lying about how much you consume. Many people with substance abuse issues have to take more and more to achieve the same effect.

What Types of Substances Can Be Abused?

Substance abuse is defined by its impact on your life, not the type of substance you use. Legal substances and illegal drugs can both be subject to abuse.

1. Alcohol

Alcohol may be legal and socially acceptable, but overuse can have a dramatic impact on your life. Along with increasing your chances of an accident, heavy alcohol use can damage your liver and trigger a variety of other health conditions.

2. Prescription and OTC Medication

While many medications can be habit-forming, the most commonly abused are opiates and medication for patients with ADHD or anxiety. If you’re taking medication intended for someone else or use it for nonmedical purposes, you may be experiencing substance abuse.

3. Marijuana

Occasional marijuana use may have minimal side effects and is legal for most adults in New York. However, overuse can impact your job and relationships, especially if you begin neglecting activities you previously enjoyed.

Because marijuana has a calming effect, many people use it to self-medicate symptoms of depression and anxiety. A substance abuse treatment counselor can help you focus on mental health issues so you can get the assistance you need.

If you or someone you love is experiencing a substance abuse issue, turn to White Spruce Counseling in Rochester to provide the personalized support you need. Their substance abuse counseling professionals offer a variety of forms of support and are eager to help you reclaim your life. Visit their website for more on their substance abuse counseling services, or call (585) 424-2436 to make an appointment.