Polysubstance addiction happens when a person becomes dependent on more than one illicit substance. Unfortunately, this is all too common. Drugs like alcohol, opiates (fentanyl, Percocet, hydrocodone), benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Valium, Klonopin), cocaine, meth, and marijuana are often abused with other substances. A person can develop polysubstance dependence by experimenting with combinations of drugs and end up hooked on those that are particularly addictive. Polysubstance addiction can also mean a person is dependent on several substances without having a preference for any specific ones.
Fresh Start Recovery Center’s drug addiction treatment program offers clients personalized care to meet their particular situations. Reach out to Fresh Start today via our secure online form or by phone at 833.625.0398 and a trained medical professional will be glad to assist you.
What Causes Polysubstance Abuse?
There is evidence that adolescents have among the highest rates of polysubstance dependence. Individuals between the ages of 12–25 represent about half of the nation’s population that uses illicit substances. Half of this age group begins substance use by their senior year of high school.
It’s believed that social expectations, peer pressure, and the desire to numb emotions are common reasons why teenagers and young adults abuse substances. For older generations, polysubstance dependence has been linked to personality disorders, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and other challenging mental health conditions.
Another common factor involves the costs associated with medical care. The high cost of medical expenses can lead individuals to attempt to self-medicate. Over time, experimenting with different methods to manage your mental and physical health without professional medical supervision can lead to polysubstance addiction.
Signs of Polysubstance Dependence
Signs and symptoms of polysubstance use disorder can vary based on the types of drugs a person is using. Those who become dependent on several substances may use uppers to give them energy and depressants in an attempt to bring their mind and body to a feeling of regularity. Using substances to regulate your body’s ups and downs can be detrimental to your physical health and also result in mood swings.
Symptoms of polysubstance dependence may include:
- Tolerance to substances
- Withdrawal when changing or ceasing use of a particular substance
- More time spent obtaining and using substances
- Less interest in hobbies
- Lack of control when it comes to the amount of substance use
- Increase in the frequency of substance use
- Inability to cut back on substance use in spite of attempts to do so
- Using drugs and alcohol despite negative consequences
How To Treat Polysubstance Dependence
Withdrawing from multiple substances is a complex process. Keeping that in mind, it’s recommended that you detox in a residential facility. These facilities offer medical detox under 24/7 doctor supervision. Detox facilities can provide emergency care if a client has any medical issues during the withdrawal process. Medically-assisted detox can also allow the option for physicians to provide suitable medications, such as antidepressants, that can ease the symptoms of withdrawal.
Treatment methods used for polysubstance abuse depend on a client’s individual situation. Abruptly ceasing the use of certain medications can result in health issues. It’s important that clients are honest with medical professionals about the drugs they have used to make sure the proper safeguards are in place as a detox plan is created.
Addiction treatment presents many challenges. A professional and caring support network helps prevent relapse. Consider looking into long-term addiction treatment after detox. This can provide an important step on the path to lasting recovery.
Fresh Start Recovery Center offers programs that are safe and suitable for healing from polysubstance addiction, including:
- Partial hospitalization program (PHP)
- Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
- Gender-specific program
- Dual diagnosis program
- Aftercare program
Contact Fresh Start to Begin Recovery Today
Polysubstance addiction can be complex. It’s important to consult with medical professionals before taking the appropriate health care steps that are right for you or your loved one. We encourage you to contact Fresh Start Recovery Center today at 833.625.0398 to speak with our trained staff about treatment options.
