Polysubstance Abuse
Technically speaking, polysubstance or polydrug intake occurs whenever a person simultaneously or nearly simultaneously consumes any combination of mind-altering substances. Since most alcohol consumers smoke cigarettes, this means that most drinkers are polysubstance users. However, doctors, researchers, and public health officials tend to use a more narrow definition when describing polysubstance abuse. This definition typically includes cases of excessive drug, medication and/or alcohol intake, which often involve people affected by substance use disorder (a diagnosis that includes both substance addiction and impairing substance abuse). Noted reasons for engaging in a pattern of polysubstance abuse include a desire to experience a higher level of substance-related mind alteration and the use of one substance to offset some of the negative physical or mental sensations associated with the intake of another substance. Particularly dangerous combinations of substances include alcohol and sedative-hypnotic medications called benzodiazepines, benzodiazepines and an opioid drug or medication, cocaine and alcohol, MDMA (Ecstasy, Molly) and alcohol, and two or more stimulant substances (including the high-caffeine products known widely as energy drinks). Known potential consequences of polysubstance abuse include fatal and nonfatal cases of substance overdose. If you or a loved one partakes in polydrug use, reach out to the substance abuse treatment center in Pennsylvania for healthy recreational activities.Smoking and Caffeine
Recent figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that about 18 percent of all American adults (i.e. about 42 million people) smoke cigarettes. Most habitual smokers are addicted to nicotine, the mind-altering ingredient found in cigarettes and other tobacco products. In turn, nicotine addiction is one of the key indicators of a tobacco use disorder, a mental health diagnosis established and defined by the American Psychiatric Association. Close to half a million Americans die from smoking-related causes every year; this is equivalent to 20 percent of all annual deaths. The average American consumes about 300 mg of caffeine per day, according to figures compiled by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This is the rough equivalent of two to three cups of coffee. In addition to coffee, common sources of caffeine include caffeinated sodas, caffeinated teas, and energy drinks.Depression in Polydrug Users
Depression in polydrug users may occur when consuming caffeine and smoking. Those with existing mood disorders encounter the negative effects of caffeine. Tea and coffee might disrupt important neurotransmitters that regulate mood. Find relief from behavioral therapies for smoking and caffeine. Programs include:- Cognitive-behavioral therapy in PA
- Dialectical behavior therapy in TN
- Motivational enhancement therapy
- 12-step therapy program in TN
