Polysubstance Use and Misuse – Key Information You Should Know

Polysubstance use refers to the use of more than one psychoactive substance. Also referred to as polydrug use, this is the combined use of multiple drugs, sometimes with one primary drug and others to alleviate the symptoms of the primary, or else to supplement the primary drug when supplies run low. Polysubstance use can refer to the use of both legal and illegal drugs. Polysubstance misuse is when a person uses different drugs too frequently, is dependent on the drugs, or is harming their health with the polydrug use. Today, we will discuss the effects of polysubstance use, where to go for treatment, and how to stay clean. 

Effects of Polysubstance Use

Use and misuse of multiple drugs can lead to brain damage, teeth deterioration, cardiovascular complications, and even damage to the senses, such as sight and hearing.

Moreover, drug use is inextricably linked to mental health disorders. Some users will begin to take drugs to self-medicate their existing mental health disorders, but this will lead to a dependency on the substances.

What’s more, taking drugs can exacerbate the symptoms of mental health disorders and cause new symptoms, such as paranoia, sleep deprivation, and even psychosis. Substance abuse disorders are mental health disorders, and by this notion, they can be treated as such.

Treating Poly Drug Misuse

Experts at Cornerstone Healing Center know that the road to recovery is challenging, but they know that with the right personalized care plan, therapy, compassionate staff, and a commitment to healing, sobriety is achievable. At their Scottsdale, Arizona location, they offer inpatient, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient programs. So, whichever works best for you or your loved one battling a substance abuse disorder, help is at hand. 

Follow the aftercare plan they provide to stay clean and keep up the great progress you made in the center.

Staying Clean

Avoid temptation. If you used to take drugs when you were partying, create new habits for having fun at the weekend, such as having movie nights with friends, taking trips, or doing activities like going bowling, meeting other sober people, or staying home with a great book.

If you took substances to help you relax and sleep, try battling insomnia in more healthy and sustainable ways, such as creating a relaxing nighttime routine. Try to steer clear of anyone or anything that reminds you of why you used to take substances. Finally, remember that you can do it and you are stronger than your addiction.

This has been a brief look at the dangers of polysubstance use and misuse, how to treat addiction to multiple drugs and how to stay clean once you have been treated. Critically, polydrug use can damage your physical and mental health. You should speak to experts at a treatment center if you or someone you love is affected by a substance abuse disorder. These centers offer therapy, aftercare plans, and coping techniques to keep you clean once you leave their care. Finally, there are things you can do for yourself to help you keep clean, such as creating new habits and avoiding temptation.