Polysubstance Abuse Disorder Treatment Q&A

Polysubstance use refers to the use of more than one drug during the same period. If a person becomes dependent on two or more substances within a short period of time, this condition is known as polysubstance abuse disorder. While this condition commonly occurs in users of illicit drugs, it can also occur in those taking prescription medications. To avoid this condition, it’s crucial to let healthcare providers know about the substances you are using. This lowers the risk of adverse reactions to newly prescribed medications.

Common examples of polysubstance use usually include the combination of a downer and an upper drug to ameliorate the effects of one substance with the other. While polysubstance abuse disorder can affect anyone, it is most common among single, lower-income males. There are various treatment options for those affected by polysubstance abuse disorder. If you believe you or a loved one is affected by this condition, the experts at Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches can help navigate the path to recovery.

Polysubstance use may be intentional or unintentional. In cases where it is intentional, a person takes additional substances to influence the effects of another substance. Some people become curious as to how drugs will affect them in combination and experiment, resulting in dangerous outcomes such as polysubstance dependence.

However, unintentional polysubstance use is more common. This circumstance occurs when additional substances, such as fentanyl, have been mixed with other substances without the person knowing. This is extremely dangerous as it can result in extremely serious, and often lethal, consequences. Some of the most common poly-abuse substances include:

• Alcohol.
• Cocaine.
• Marijuana.
• Heroin.
• Opioids or prescription painkillers.
• Methamphetamines.
• Benzodiazepines.
• Amyl nitrate combinations.
• Synthetic drug formulations.
• Psychedelics.

There are various signs and symptoms to be aware of when looking out for polysubstance abuse disorder. Many of the symptoms are the same as those produced by substance use disorder (SUD). The warning signs of polysubstance use include the following:

• The urge to use two or more substances regularly, such as daily or several times a day.
• Thinking about using several substances throughout the day to the point that it becomes difficult to concentrate on other things.
• Needing more substances to feel the same effects over time.
• Spending excessive amounts of money on two or more substances.
• Experiencing difficulty in important areas of life, such as family, career, or romantic relationships, due to substance use.
• Feelings of depression, anxiety, or isolation.
• Exhibiting risky behaviors under the influence of substances.
• Spending excessive time, money, and resources acquiring substances.
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop using substances.
• Continuing to use various substances despite understanding how they can harm general health.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to seek psychiatric intervention before the condition becomes increasingly dangerous. The skilled professionals at Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches can help you detox from substance use effectively and safely to get started on your journey to recovery and improved wellness.

Polysubstance abuse disorder is very dangerous, especially if it is left untreated. The condition can seriously harm the body by causing damage to organs such as the brain and the liver. Health complications associated with polysubstance use include seizures, heart attacks, brain injuries, and strokes. Furthermore, polysubstance abuse disorder can cause worsening mental health disorders and exacerbate symptoms.

The biggest danger associated with polysubstance abuse disorder is the risk of overdosing. With polysubstance use, the risk of overdosing is significantly higher than when a single substance is abused. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that in 2019, nearly half of all overdoses in the nation were related to polysubstance use. To avoid the risks of polysubstance abuse disorder, it’s crucial to receive professional treatment. If you have this condition and are seeking treatment, the dedicated team at our psychiatry clinic can help. For more information, contact us today or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Boynton Beach FL, Delray Beach FL, Palm Beach Gardens FL, Jupiter FL, Stuart FL, Palm City FL, Royal Palm Beach FL, Wellington FL, Vero Beach FL, Citrus Ridge FL, Plantation FL, Sunrise FL, Jacksonville FL, Riverside FL, and surrounding areas.