“Just one try won’t hurt” is a phrase that can ultimately lead to disaster. After all, one shot of vodka or a little puff of cocaine won’t do any harm, right? In short, you could probably predict the answer was “no” from a mile away, and for good reason. Particularly among young adults and teens, the philosophy that “one pill won’t kill me” has resulted in severe problems with prescription opioids, as resources indicate. Let’s also not forget the all-too-common cases of college students testing their luck with beer pong and marijuana joints. Obviously, not everyone will become an addict, but do you want to take that chance? Research has proven that occasional drug use is just as dangerous as hardcore drug use. Let’s take a closer look and see why this is possible.
Risk of Accidental Overdose
No doubt, you will sometimes run across a tragic story about a teen who died from a drug overdose, stemming from first-time use. Perhaps you have also read reports about young adults who have died from acute alcohol poisoning after drinking too much on the first try. No two human beings are the same, meaning they will react to drugs and alcohol much differently than their neighbor. While one person may feel sick after taking a shot, another person may suffer from a fit of vomiting.
Triggering Substance Abuse
Years of medical research has proven (time and time again) that underage drug and alcohol use (particularly before the age of 15) can trigger problems with substance abuse down the road. Reports indicate that the consumption of drugs or alcohol before the age of 21 will result in:
- A dangerously higher risk of developing early onset substance abuse
- A 5-time higher risk of suffering from addiction or dependency as an adult
- A deadly risk of turning to illegal drugs
- Underdevelopment of the brain
- High likelihood of developing cognitive and social problems like risk-taking, depression, or suicidal thoughts/tendencies.
Seeking Treatment for Drug Addiction or Alcoholism
Whether you are an addict or not, you have most likely witnessed society’s insensitivity toward drug addicts and alcoholics and may have even let some of these thoughts pass through your mind. We have been programmed to think negatively about these poor men and women for so long that showing cruelty to them can sometimes be second nature. While bad behavior should never be condoned, we have to remember that some of these people are willing to change. However, you must keep in mind that anyone can change at any time, as long as they consciously make an effort.
If you are suffering from a severe case of drug addiction or alcoholism or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of alcohol withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
