19 Nov Reducing the risks of Substance Use Disorder with Education and Awareness

Substance use disorder is something that must be addressed correctly. By educating ourselves and spreading awareness, we become one step closer to reducing the risks of addiction and understanding how to help those struggling. Today, Calm Rehab wants to discuss how education and awareness can reduce the risks of substance use, why people turn to drugs and alcohol, and how we can support loved ones towards positive change. Recovery should never be faced alone, so it is essential everyone knows how to provide the necessary support to help loved ones reach sobriety. 

How Educating Individuals on Substance Use Helps Them Make the Right Decision 

One of the first steps we can take to reduce the risks of substance use is to educate those around us. The more people who have access to accurate information about the risks and effects drugs and alcohol can have on a person’s life, the more equipped they are when making decisions. There are several myths and misconceptions about substance use, so providing transparent and honest information is essential. 

How Having a Well-Rounded Understanding of Substance Use can Help us Support Those we Love 

By educating ourselves on the complexities of substance use, we are able to provide meaningful guidance and support to those we love. Not only is it essential to have an accurate understanding of the risks involved, but we must delve deeper to figure out why a person may have become dependent. There are hundreds of environmental, psychological, and social factors that can increase the risks of substance use, and without trying to understand how a person has developed an addiction, it is likely we can’t provide the support they need to overcome it. 

One common misconception is linking substance use to a moral failing or lack of willpower. This view can increase the stigma surrounding substance use and cause a person who is struggling to become more withdrawn and less open to change. By learning about the psychological and biological aspects of addiction, we can address the situation with empathy and understanding rather than blaming them for their addiction. Of course, accountability is a large part of recovery, but the initial steps start with assessing the root causes and working together to understand why certain decisions were made. 

An Overview of Why People Turn to Substance Use 

To give you an understanding of why a person may become dependent on drugs and alcohol, here is a brief overview of the complexities often involved. 

Coping Mechanism – When a person encounters stress, depression, anxiety, or trauma, it is natural to find a coping mechanism. For example, many people in society consider it ordinary to have a drink after a bad day at work, but when life becomes an emotional struggle, it isn’t uncommon for individuals to seek other ways of relieving their pain.

Peer Pressure – This is common among adolescents and young adults and can act as a gateway to substance use. When a person wants to fit in, they are likely to do things they may not have thought about doing otherwise. Being part of a social setting where drugs and alcohol are normalised can encompass many risks to more susceptible individuals. 

Mental Health Disorders – There is a significant link between substance use and people dealing with mental health disorders. If a person is regularly partaking in substance use, they are likely struggling in one way or another. 

Genetic Predisposition – If an individual has a family history of addiction, there is a chance they will be more susceptible to developing drug or alcohol dependency. 

Tips on How to Support Loved Ones Battling Addiction 

If a loved one is struggling with addiction, we want nothing more than to provide the help and support they need to overcome it. However, the stress caused by the situation can lead people to support their loved ones in the wrong way. Here are some steps to ensure we are doing the right thing if we are ever faced with this situation. 

Education – Take the time to learn about the substance they are using. Understanding the risks, withdrawal symptoms, and treatment can help us provide essential support without putting too much pressure on them. 

Use Empathy – It is crucial to approach the situation without judgment and try to see it from their perspective. 

Gently Promote Professional Help – It is often essential that a person seeks the help of a professional in the initial stages of recovery, but this must be approached gently. 

Find Out More About Supporting Loved Ones Through Their Recovery Journey 

If you feel someone you care about is dealing with addiction, you don’t need to approach the situation alone. At Calm Rehab, we can provide professional support and guidance to ensure you are making the right decisions. We are immensely committed to addiction recovery and will do everything we can to help those in need.