Drug Abuse Effects: The Effects Of Drug Abuse On The Addict’s Family

According to statistics, the State of Colorado ranks the highest for all drug categories within the United States. Increased drug use has caused a breakdown of the family unit in Colorado.Drug abuse can have lasting effects on family unit. This applies whether the family member is a parent, a spouse or a child. Foundations of the relationship are destroyed; and it takes time to rebuild essential relationship components, especially trust. Early detection of drug abuse is the best way to preserve the family bond and save it before these components are destroyed.

Effects of drugs on the abuser

A drug abuser is at a high risk for multiple emotional and physical problems because of their drug use. The use of intravenous drugs and shared needles places the abuser at a higher risk of developing an autoimmune deficiency along with other harmful infections and diseases. The loss of sexual inhibitions increases the risk of developing such diseases. Additionally, mood swings can occur, especially during withdrawal periods, making recovery more difficult. Increased immunity to the drug requires more of the drug to achieve the same feeling. This increases the potential of overdose which can and often does result in death. Some drugs have a hallucinogenic effect which can cause delirium and paranoia. This can often result in abusive behavior and unreasonable accusations of family and friends.

Effects on Family

Families can suffer total destruction amidst the drug abuse of a family member. Relationships become difficult and often scary for spouses, partners, and children. This can even extend to parents when children are abusing drugs. Often, families try to cover up the problem or deny that one even exists. This action is often stems from either love or in fear of punishment.

Another problem with families and drug abuse pertains to parents who abuse. Children who have parents that abuse drugs are more likely to develop emotional problems later in life. They are also more likely to suffer physical, emotional, or medical neglect. The effects of this on children can take decades to heal.

Potential Consequences for Drug-Abusing Parents

For many Colorado families, drug abuse can result in intervention by Colorado state services. The drug-abusing family member may be required to undergo hair follicle drug testing, a form of drug testing that is impossible to alter. In order to maintain custody or regain custody of children from Colorado state care, drug testing must be clean for a specified amount of time.

Drugs & Your Brain (Drug Abuse Prevention Library)

Discusses how the brain functions, the effects of drugs on the brain, how drug use can lead to addiction, and where to get help.

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