Addiction comes in many forms: overeating, gambling, and sex to name a few. The type of addiction we most often hear of others going to professionals to quit is alcohol and drugs. Some of the most commonly abused substances include cannabis, alcohol, stimulants, and opioids or opiates. That is not to say that other drugs do not become problematic for many individuals.

Most people have heard of cannabis or weed. We know it as the “gateway drug.” THC is the chemical in cannabis that gets an individual high. It comes in many forms, such as hashish, resin, hash oil, and dried leaves with stems, seeds, and flowers. Some people mix it into food or drinks. Others smoke marijuana.

Alcohol is legal to those over age 21 with a valid ID. We see it in most places we go to. Many medications have negative interactions with alcohol. This substance has many effects on the body. Typically, this substance is taken orally.

4 Of the Most Common Addictions to Drugs and AlcoholSpeed, Uppers, and Vitamin R: Have you heard these slang words before? They each represent alternative names for stimulants. Some common uppers include dextroamphetamine (which can be mixed with amphetamine as Adderall) and methylphenidate (Ritalin or Concerta). These drugs are often prescribed to individuals with ADHD, ADD, and narcolepsy, and their primary effect is increasing dopamine and norepinephrine. Short-term effects of stimulant use include higher blood pressure and heart rate, faster breathing, reduced flow of blood, high blood sugar, and nasal cavities dilating. Changes to heart rate, heart attack, failure of the heart muscle, and seizures can occur from high doses of these substances.

Opiates include a variety of substances. Many of these include prescriptions, such as Lortab and OxyContin. Opium, morphine, and heroin also fall into this category. Opioids can be taken intravenously, nasally, or orally. Heroin itself has no commercial uses.

What are Signs that I May Have an Addiction to One of These Substances?

Substance use and drinking can be experimental in nature. In fact, that is often how it starts off. Then, misuse creeps in. Unfortunately, you can begin to exhibit signs of addiction quicker than you may think. Be on the lookout of signs of addiction, such as:

  • You are partaking in substances in larger quantities, or over a longer time span than you originally planned on doing.
  • You notice you have a major longing for the substance. You have had unsuccessful attempts to cut down use.
  • A large amount of time is spent to obtain, engage in, and recover from the use of alcohol or drugs.
  • You notice an overwhelming desire to use an identified substance. This use does not depend on if the situation is dangerous or not.
  • The drinking or use interferes with education, occupation, home life, and/or interpersonal life. You may notice you have stopped cleaning the house, no longer cook meals, or do not you’re your children and other family members as much time as you used to. Maybe you even have been making excuses to get out of social events you used to enjoy. Your grades have dropped, or your work is suffering. Drinking or use may encourage legal problems and amplify psychological or physical difficulties.
  • Tolerance becomes increased. You need more to feel the effects of drugs or alcohol. When you do not have the substance, you experience withdrawal symptoms.
  • Getting high or drunk is no longer the reason you use. The purpose is instead to not feel “sick” from being without alcohol or drugs.

A Place to Support Your Cessation of Opioids, Stimulants, Cannabis, and Alcohol

Discovery Place in Burns, Tennessee believes in you! We are here to help you quit addictive substances and live your best life. Our alternative drug and alcohol rehab center is just a call away. Established in 1997, we have over 4,000 alumni. Call us today at 1-800-725-0922 and join the many who have benefited from a sober lifestyle.

Testimonials

  • Discovery Place was the answer for my son. He did the 90 day and then the step down program and sober living. We give this organization 10 stars. They met my son where he was …emotionally, mentally, physically. They helped him put his life back on track. Discovery Place employees care about their guests. If your son, brother, nephew, grandson or husband needs excellent supportive care THIS is indeed the facility.

    Kim Morton
    Alumni Parent
  • I have remained sober and it is because of DP. DP is the best place there is, hands down. I keep everyone there in my prayers, and I encourage everyone there to take what they are practicing and do it in their lives, after.

    Roy Mantelli
    Alumni
  • Over the past year, I’ve been putting into actin what Discovery Place taught me, and I have experienced a complete perspective change of the world, and the people in it. I get to be a man of service and love today, and for that I am grateful to Discovery Place.

    Matt Kassay
    Alumni
  • Discovery Place means the world to me. They showed me the tools that I’ve tried to use everyday in my life to think less often of myself, and more frequently of others. I am learning to lend a hand when I am able and to have a honest and humble relationship with God and the people around me. Not only am I clean and sober, but also I am happy and fulfilled.

    Tommy Parker
    Alumni
  • Discovery Place and the men who work there made recovery attractive, and more importantly, fun. There is strength in the struggle. I am forever grateful for my time at Discovery Place.

    Creed McClellan
    Alumni
  • When I got to Discovery Place my whole life was in shambles, but I didn’t know it. I spent 6 months in their programs, participating in all three phases, and was met with kindness and love all along the way. It is unbelievable to me, where I am now relative to where I was when I arrived at DP.

    Lance Duke
    Alumni
  • I can never say enough good things about Discovery Place and the people who work there. Before checking in to DP, I was out of options and out of answers. Fortunately, Discovery Place has a solution. Taking suggestions from the staff at DP saved my life, and as a result, I’m now more content and hopeful about life. I’m grateful for Discovery Place showing me how to live a healthy life so that I can become a better man and help the next guy.”

    Tyler Buckingham
    Alumni

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