Many men often end up in social situations where they have an option of trying substances that could be bad for their health. While the best answer to this question is to say no, they agree to trying it out under peer pressure or to look cool. However, the one time use can at times lead to getting addicted to such substances, whether it is alcohol, drugs or cigarettes, often leading to substance use disorder. Let’s read on to know more.
Having a glass of wine once every two days is never a problem. Drinking occasionally at parties or social gatherings is completely fine unless you are binge drinking and getting drunk till you pass out. That is, perhaps, substance use disorder, which affects a man’s brain and behaviour as well as leads to an inability to control the use of a legal or illegal drug and medication. In this case, alcohol, marijuana and nicotine are also considered drugs. Also known as drug addiction, when a man is addicted to such substances, he may use them despite knowing that they are harmful for his body.
Drug addiction may start with experimentation or recreational use of such substances in social situations. For others, exposure to prescribed medicines may lead to substance use disorder. The risk of addiction depends on the substance that you are using. Let’s get to know more about substance use disorder.
Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder
When a man is dealing with substance use disorder, there are a variety of symptoms that appear. Some of these include:
Feeling that you have to use the drug regularly, daily or even several times a day.
Having intense urges for the drug that block out any other thoughts.
Over time, needing more of the drug to get the same effect.
Taking larger amounts of the drug over a longer period of time than you intended.
Making certain that you maintain a supply of the drug.
Spending money on the drug, even though you can’t afford it.
Not meeting obligations and work responsibilities, or cutting back on social or recreational activities because of drug use.
Continuing to use the drug, even though you know it’s causing problems in your life or causing you physical or psychological harm.
Doing things to get the drug that you normally wouldn’t do, such as stealing.
Driving or doing other risky activities when you’re under the influence of the drug.
Spending a good deal of time getting the drug, using the drug or recovering from the effects of the drug.
Failing in your attempts to stop using the drug.
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you attempt to stop taking the drug.
Risk Factors for Substance Use Disorder
Although anyone can develop substance use disorder, there are certain risk factors that make some men more prone to substance use disorder.
*Research indicates that genetic factors may be responsible for 40% to 60% of an individual’s susceptibility to developing a substance use disorder. However, there are other risk factors as well:
Physical, sexual, or emotional abuse.
Exposure to trauma.
Family members or peers who use or misuse substances.
Access to these substances.
Mental health disorders, such as:
Depression
Anxiety
Eating Disorders
Personality Disorders
Substance use at an early age.
Conclusion
Substance use disorder can completely change as well as destroy your life. The best way to stay away from it is to stay away from such substances, whether it is alcohol or marijuana. Trying out these drugs, even once, can lead you to drug addiction, especially if you try opioid painkillers. It is better to prevent drug addiction rather than treating it.