Polysubstance abuse, or the consumption of more than one mood-altering substance at a time, requires specialized, skilled treatment. Often, people can develop a pattern of polysubstance abuse without realizing they are forming a dependence on substances. Good substance abuse programs can help clients through the physical and psychological aspects of the recovery process. Call a Better State at 781.412.1488 to learn more about our substance abuse treatment programs in New Hampshire.
How to Recognize Polysubstance Abuse
When someone engages in polysubstance misuse, they may combine two illegal drugs or dangerous substances simultaneously (such as alcohol and heroin). However, polysubstance abuse also includes prescription medications with addictive properties, such as certain stimulants and opioids. If someone is using prescription medications with alcohol or marijuana, for instance, this is still considered polysubstance abuse.
People may use two or more substances at once to enhance the effects of one of the substances. Someone who takes prescription painkillers for their relaxing or sedative properties may combine them with another type of drug to achieve a greater sense of relaxation.
Combining two substances can also produce a desirable effect on its own. Many addictive drugs act on the same brain receptors or neurotransmitters, so that polysubstance use can increase the overall effect on the brain. This effect leads to stronger “high” and stronger withdrawal symptoms.
Another reason for polysubstance use is to decrease the negative effects of one substance by using another substance. People may take benzodiazepines, for example, to help them recover from alcohol use or take sedatives to come down from the “high” of stimulants.
Dangers of Polysubstance Abuse
When substances are combined, the effect of each addictive substance becomes stronger. Side effects can be unpredictable and dangerous to the brain and body. These side effects can include the following:
- Combining depressant substances, like alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines, can slow down someone’s breathing and heart rate and increase their risk of brain damage.
- Combining stimulants, like cocaine and amphetamines, can raise heart and blood pressure rates to dangerous levels.
- In any combination, addictive drugs can harm the brain, cardiovascular system, and other physical organs.
A polysubstance abuse rehab center can help people break dangerous habits and patterns and learn healthy physical habits to avoid further damage.
Do I Need a Polysubstance Abuse Rehab Center?
You may benefit from polysubstance addiction treatment if you find that you are using more than one mood-altering substance at once. One sign of polysubstance abuse is using prescription drugs along with other substances, even when this use is not recommended. Another sign is needing more doses or higher doses of either substance to achieve the desired effect.
A pattern of polysubstance misuse puts you at higher risk for developing physical or psychiatric health conditions. It’s smart to seek treatment as early as possible so you stand the best chance of making a full recovery.
Our Polysubstance Addiction Treatment in New Hampshire
A Better State offers evidence-based, trauma-informed polysubstance addiction treatment in New Hampshire on an outpatient basis. Because every individual who seeks treatment has different needs, we create a specialized treatment plan for each client. If clients have co-occurring mental health conditions like depression or post-traumatic substance disorder, our dual diagnosis program offers therapy and support.
Other options available to clients include:
- Behavioral therapies that address emotional regulation and teach coping skills
- Support groups where you can learn from and share with others
- Sober living options through trusted partners in New England
- The 12-step program, a time-tested method of recovery support
- Family therapy for those whose families are involved in their treatment
- Holistic treatments like art therapy and yoga therapy
A Better State is here to answer your questions and provide evidence-based, compassionate care that can help you or your loved one regain their sobriety and freedom from addiction.
Contact A Better State for Your Recovery Help
If you’re ready to take the next step toward recovery, contact A Better State today. We offer comprehensive services and treatment options for those suffering from polysubstance abuse. Call us at 781.412.1488 or contact us online to get started. Together, we can build a brighter tomorrow free from addiction.
