Self-medication is a common practice among many individuals, but it is important to understand that it can be dangerous. Many people turn to self-medication as a way to treat symptoms or illnesses without consulting a healthcare professional. This can include consuming alcohol to stress, anxiety, depression, or other emotional or psychological distress, taking someone else’s medication, using expired medication, or using medication in a way that is not recommended by the manufacturer.
At Skywood Outpatient, we understand the dangers of self-medicating and are committed to helping people who struggle with this behavior. Our comprehensive addiction and mental health treatment programs provide evidence-based approaches that can help people break the cycle of self-medicating and learn healthier coping skills. Contact us at 248.617.6237 or online to learn more about our alcohol rehab in Michigan.
Why Self-Medicating with Alcohol Is Harmful
Not only is self-medicating a form of substance abuse, but it can also lead to several other issues. Self-medicating can lead to the development of a physical dependence on the substance and an increased risk of overdose. In addition, self-medicating can be dangerous for individuals who may have an underlying condition or disorder, as the substances used to self-medicate can worsen the symptoms or interact with other medications.
Self-medicating with alcohol can be extremely harmful, both in the short-term and the long-term. In the short-term, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to problems such as impaired judgment, impaired motor skills, and blackouts. Additionally, self-medicating with alcohol can lead to a host of physical health problems, such as liver damage, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
In the long term, self-medicating with alcohol can lead to addiction. Alcohol use disorder is a chronic disease characterized by a physical and psychological dependence on alcohol. Individuals who are addicted to alcohol may have difficulty controlling their drinking and may continue to drink despite the negative consequences. Alcohol use disorder can lead to a host of negative consequences, including job loss, financial problems, and family problems. Additionally, alcohol use disorder can lead to serious health problems, such as liver disease, cancer, and heart disease.
Risk Factors for Self-Medication
Several risk factors can increase an individual’s likelihood of self-medicating with alcohol. These include:
- Mental health conditions – Individuals with mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, may be more likely to self-medicate as a way to cope with their symptoms.
- Trauma – Individuals who have experienced trauma, such as abuse or neglect, may be more likely to self-medicate with alcohol.
- Stressful life events – Individuals who are going through a stressful life event, such as a divorce or the loss of a loved one, may be more likely to self-medicate with alcohol.
- Lack of access to healthcare – Individuals who do not have access to healthcare may turn to self-medication as a way to treat their symptoms or illnesses.
The risks of self-medicating with alcohol are numerous, and it is important to understand that it can lead to severe consequences. If you or someone you know is struggling with self-medicating with alcohol, Skywood Outpatient can help.
Find Effective Alcohol Abuse Treatment at Skywood Outpatient
At Skywood Outpatient, we offer a comprehensive alcohol abuse treatment program that is tailored to the unique needs of each individual. Our program includes a variety of evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy.
It is vital to address the underlying causes of addiction and mental health conditions to overcome addiction. Alcohol abuse treatment at Skywood Outpatient is designed to help individuals overcome addiction and address the underlying causes of addiction. With the right support and treatment, individuals can achieve lasting recovery. Call us at 248.617.6237 for more information today, or fill out our online contact form and let us get back to you.