If you have struggled with drug or alcohol use in the past, you might be concerned about taking psychiatric drugs for fear of becoming addicted. The good news is that most of these medications are not addictive, at least when they are used properly. If you have a mental health disorder along with a substance use disorder, it is imperative that you are treated for both. Certain mental health problems like depression, anxiety, and PTSD can drive people to drink or use drugs, but self-medicating in this manner is only going to cause more trouble in the long run. Depression and anxiety are common side effects of many illicit drugs, and you’ll find yourself stuck in a vicious cycle. Using a psychiatric medication prescribed by a doctor and following the dosage instructions precisely can help you overcome both of your struggles without fear of further addiction.
Of course, if you abuse psychiatric drugs, they can be dangerous and habit-forming. There are also some medications that are more addictive than others. Benzodiazepines, or drugs used to treat insomnia, anxiety, and panic disorders, in particular have a high potential for abuse. These include Ativan (lorazepam), Xanax (alprazolam), Klonopin (clonazepam), and Valium (diazepam). Dependence on these drugs can develop in as little as a month in higher doses, and withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, increased heart rate and blood pressure, delirium, and seizures. Benzodiazepines are not generally taken alone when abused; around 80 percent of people who abuse them take them with other drugs, typically opioids. A study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse found that 15 percent of heroin users used benzodiazepines daily for more than one year, and 73 percent used benzodiazepines more than once a week.
Psychostimulants are another commonly abused medication. They increase activity in the brain and nervous system, improving energy and cognitive function in people with ADHD. Although they are helpful long-term for people with ADHD, these stimulants are frequently abused by people looking to improve their energy and focus. College students use Ritalin, in particular, in an effort to stay awake and make studying more effective.
Mood stabilizers are prescribed to people with bipolar disorder to help balance out mood swings. One of the most common and longest-used of these drugs is lithium, which is sold under a variety of brand names including Lithobid and Eskalith. Although they are not considered addictive, mood stabilizers can be abused, typically by people attempting to self-medicate or intentionally cause themselves harm. Some of the side effects are tremors or convulsions, kidney or liver damage, memory loss, and flu-like symptoms. When taken in high doses, particularly at the same time as other drugs or alcohol, overdoses on mood stabilizers can lead to death.
If you or a loved one need help to quit drugs or alcohol, consider Asana Recovery. We offer medical detox, along with both residential and outpatient programs, and you’ll be supervised by a highly trained staff of medical professionals, counselors, and therapists. Call us any time at (949) 438-4504.
