We remain open and committed to providing services for our clients. For more information on our Coronavirus (COVID-19) procedures, Click Here

Know the Risks of Using Substances

Home » Blog » Know the Risks of Using Substances

All substance use comes with inherent risks. Understanding the facts is crucial to preventing drugs from negatively impacting you and your loved ones. This article explores the growing problem of drug use among adults, the specific dangers of different substances, and the importance of seeking help before it’s too late.

The Bright Side of Life 

In a world full of opportunities and joy, making healthy choices leads to a fulfilling life. Engaging in activities like walking in the park, spending time with loved ones, and pursuing hobbies can enhance well-being and happiness. A life free from the burden of drug use allows individuals to achieve their goals and maintain strong, positive relationships.

  • Healthy Lifestyle: Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and mental wellness practices contribute to overall health. 
  • Strong Relationships: Healthy relationships with family and friends provide support and joy.
  • Achievement of Goals: Without the hindrance of addiction, individuals can focus on personal and professional aspirations.

The Dark Side of Substance Use 

Substance use, including marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, prescription drug misuse, and illicit opioids, is on the rise among adults. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this trend, leading to increased usage as people struggle with heightened stress and anxiety. The pressures of modern life, such as career demands, homeownership, marriage, and parenthood, can drive individuals to seek relief through drugs.

Different Drugs, Different Dangers

Cocaine: Highly addictive and involved in nearly one in five overdose deaths, cocaine can lead to severe health issues such as asthma, bowel decay, and an increased risk of HIV. 

Methamphetamine (Meth): Meth is notorious for its devastating health effects, which can sometimes be fatal even on the first use. Chronic meth users often experience severe anxiety, confusion, insomnia, paranoia, and aggression.

Prescription and Illicit Opioids: These substances are the leading cause of overdose deaths, with health effects that include confusion, nausea, constipation, coma, and brain damage.

Marijuana: Despite its legal status in many states, marijuana use is linked to various negative outcomes, including dependency and impaired cognitive function.

The Real Risks of Substance Use 

The pressures of adult life—careers, homeownership, marriage, parenthood—are substantial. The pandemic has only magnified these stresses, leading some to turn to drugs as a coping mechanism. However, legal status does not equate to safety. Regular or habitual drug use often exacerbates stress and introduces additional health risks.

Cocaine: Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that significantly affects the brain’s reward system, making it highly addictive. The immediate effects of cocaine use include increased energy, euphoria, and heightened alertness. However, these short-term benefits come with severe health risks. Chronic use can lead to cardiovascular problems, such as heart attacks and strokes, respiratory issues, and severe gastrointestinal complications like bowel decay. Cocaine users also have an increased risk of contracting HIV due to risky behaviors associated with drug use.

Methamphetamine (Meth): Methamphetamine is one of the most dangerous and addictive substances available. Even a single use can cause severe health issues or death. Methamphetamine works by increasing the amount of dopamine in the brain, leading to intense euphoria and increased activity. However, the drug also speeds up the body’s systems to dangerous levels. Chronic users suffer from severe psychological and physical effects, including extreme weight loss, dental problems (“meth mouth”), skin sores, anxiety, confusion, insomnia, paranoia, and violent behavior. The risk of overdose is high, and the drug’s toxic effects on the brain can result in long-term cognitive impairment.

Prescription and Illicit Opioids: Opioids are a class of drugs that include prescription pain relievers, synthetic opioids, and heroin. These substances are highly addictive and are the leading cause of overdose deaths. Opioids work by binding to receptors in the brain to reduce the perception of pain, which can lead to a sense of euphoria. However, the misuse of opioids can cause serious health effects such as confusion, nausea, constipation, respiratory depression, coma, and brain damage. The risk of developing an addiction is high, and withdrawal symptoms can be severe, making it difficult to quit without professional help.

Marijuana: While marijuana is legal in many states, it is not without risks. Chronic use of marijuana can lead to dependency and has been associated with various negative outcomes. These include impaired cognitive function, memory issues, and decreased attention and learning abilities. In some cases, marijuana use has been linked to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and psychosis, particularly in individuals with a predisposition to these conditions. The long-term health effects of marijuana are still being studied, but it is clear that regular use can have significant impacts on an individual’s well-being.

The Rise of Drug Use in Adults Aged 26-49 

While young adults (18-25) have the highest rates of drug use, usage among adults aged 26-49 is also increasing:

  • Marijuana: The percentage of adults aged 26 and older using marijuana daily or almost daily has nearly doubled since 2015.
  • Cocaine: Use and death rates are rising, with cocaine-involved overdose rates increasing annually since 2012.
  • Meth: Overdose death rates among those aged 25-54 increased more than five-fold between 2011 and 2018.
  • Opioids: The opioid crisis continues, with 81,230 drug overdose deaths reported in the U.S. in the 12 months ending in May 2020, most involving prescription or illicit opioids.

Seeking Help 

Before drugs turn your life and your family’s lives upside down, remember that help is available. Recognizing the risks and seeking assistance can prevent the severe consequences of drug use. You can quit and reclaim control over your life.

Understanding common hiding places can help in identifying and addressing drug use. Knowing where to look can be the first step in recognizing and confronting a drug problem.

Drug use among adults is a growing problem, exacerbated by the stresses of modern life and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Different drugs pose various dangers, but all can lead to severe health issues and dependency. By understanding the risks and seeking help early, individuals can prevent drugs from taking a devastating toll on their lives and the lives of those around them. There is always hope and support available for those willing to take the first step towards recovery.

For those struggling with addiction, Hathaway Recovery offers a hope of recovery. Their dedication to renewing and rebuilding lives is evident in their comprehensive approach to treatment and care. With a promise of a new beginning, Hathaway Recovery extends its helping hand to those in need. Their Admission Department provides confidential assistance and can be reached at (909) 971-3333, offering a pathway to recovery and a chance to embark on a transformative journey towards a healthier, fulfilling life.

Testimonials

  • Excellent treatment center. Hathaway put on the road to recovery, I been sober 2 years today! Thank you Dena and staff members!

    Mike M.
    star
  • Hathaway has saved my family. Before we found Hathaway my daughter was suffering with addiction however once we came to this facility the staff took her in and she felt comfortable and by a couple months she was ready to come back home fully recovered. Thank you Hathaway Recovery for saving her and thank you for the wonderful staff.

    Gabby H.
    star
  • First I’ll start by saying that, this facility is absolutely beautiful! A couple years ago my husband Tony attended Hathaway Recovery in Claremont Ca. While Tony was in residential he received every care needed for a successful recovery. Also, he was able to enjoy the home gym at the beautiful Hathaway home, it’s basketball court, pool and etc. which made his stay even more pleasant. I am forever grateful for the man Tony has become ever since his completion. He has two years clean under his belt and many more to come because of the amazing facility. Thanks again Hathaway Recovery and Staff, Keep Continuing Changing Lives, God Bless Diane and Tony

    Diane K.
    star
  • I came to Hathaway Recovery on court orders stemming from charges due to not taking medications for my mental health. I was fearful of what my future held and what that would look like. I have never been to a dual diagnosis treatment program before, and I didn’t know what to expect. I really didn’t think I had a substance abuse problem but after about 3-4 weeks of group therapy and the counselors here at this facility, I finally realized substance abuse influenced me to not be able to take care of my mental health. With the help of Hathaway Recovery’s team, I was able to build a strong foundation for my recovery that is vital to me and my family. The clinical staff, therapist, case managers, and counselors included, were honest, caring, and really helped me gain the knowledge I needed to build this recovery program and lifestyle. I am forever grateful for the treatment at Hathaway Recovery.

    Transition A.
    star
  • My brother has been addicted for years. All our family gave up on him. Recently, he completed an inpatient residential program at Hathaway Recovery. This place is blessed and so helpful. It’s very luxurious, you feel like you are on vacation at a beautiful resort. Hathaway Recovery staff is very helpful, understanding and supportive. They all helped him to recover and to become a human again and enjoy his life. This place also supports family members and teaches them how to deal with aftercare to prevent relapse. Hathaway Recovery is the place for those who are struggling with addiction. Thank you for everything!

    Beauty D.
    star
  • As a Trauma Informed Therapist I was contracted by Dina , the Owner to provide additional Trauma Informed Counseling. She indicated that she was seeking additional clinical services because her client population were enthusiastic about their recovery and she wanted to provide quality care. Working with Hathaway has been magical. This program does not separate addiction and mental health trauma into separate treatments, This program blends together the understanding that addicts have childhood trauma and have habitually used drugs or alcohol to dull their inner pain., Hathaway Recovery provides highly individual services for each client, including bilingual counseling. This is a program that I am proud to be a part of. Susan Pennington, LCSW – Trauma Informed Counseling Services.

    Susan P.
    star
  • Hathaway Recovery Center is the real deal. They helped me find myself when I was completely lost. After I lost the mother of my child due to a tragic accident. The therapists and counselors truly cared. We made a relationship with each other that was unbreakable. The other clients were awesome roommates and true to me. The house managers were great and the living situations were awesome. If I ever even think about slipping up I’ll be returning. Today I have over one year clean.

    Jimmie R.
    star
  • After searching many rehabs and after spending so much money to useless facilities we finally found Hathaway . From the bottom of my heart I would like to thank all the staff and all the residents that made my sons recovery easier from beginning to end.

    Gayane A.
    star
  • Hathaway truly saved my life. I am so grateful to have had an opportunity to go there. I came in at absolute rock bottom, 9 rehabs later and countless sober livings. I can tell you that this treatment center is different then every other one I’ve ever been to.

    Justin J.
    star
  • After running into some trouble with the law, a substance abuse counselor suggested that I check myself into Hathaway Recovery. Hathaway Recovery helped me get my life back together one step at a time. Through discipline, routine, and structure, I can honestly say that this treatment center has helped me tremendously! The staff are very helpful and caring to each person’s needs, and helped me to realize the beauty of living a sober life.

    Josh M.
    star
  • Hathaway Recovery stuff saw potential In me when I couldn’t. They showed me a new way of life, a better life. Coming to Hathaway recovery is the best decision I’ve ever made. I’m beyond grateful for everything the program has done for me!

    Gilberto F.
    star
  • Finally, Hathaway is a Treatment Center that offers a holistic approach to addiction. This center offers a safe place, community and a network to grow with throughout your recovery process. They make you feel that you are NOT alone. The leadership has been in your shoes!!! Hathaway Recovery is more than just a temporary fix, it is a foundation, a movement, a family to be a part of.

    Anthony P.
    star
  • One of the best places I have been too! They really know how to treat you and very professional!

    Ashley A.
    star
  • Hathaway Recovery and their staff have been nothing but supportive and understanding throughout our family member’s journey. I truly appreciate all the staff and their hard work. The communication has been great and has provided us a really positive experience. I would highly recommend this facility to anyone looking for a rehabilitation center for themselves or a loved one. Thank you Hathaway Recovery!

    Lilit H.
    star
  • Hathaway Recovery is a very solid, very friendly place. My boyfriend decided to go here and has spent a significant amount of time at the recovery house. They are very good at bringing clients to meetings and on fun outings occasionally! Hathaway is committed to their clients’ recovery and their sobriety and to helping them in any way possible. They go above and beyond for the clients and I definitely would recommend considering Hathaway for your sobriety/recovery.

    Rena
    star
  • Hathaway is a warm caring treatment oriented environment to receive help from various addictions and behavioral problematic issues. The location itself is serene and safe.. I enjoyed the both staff/professional’s and patient’s… It has many services available, a very unique place… I recommend anyone to come and receive long-term treatment here at Hathaway…

    Mia
    star
  • Hathaway Recovery is a very solid, very friendly place. My boyfriend decided to go here and has spent a significant amount of time at the recovery house. They are very good at bringing clients to meetings and on fun outings occasionally! Hathaway is committed to their clients’ recovery and their sobriety and to helping them in any way possible. They go above and beyond for the clients and I definitely would recommend considering Hathaway for your sobriety/recovery.

    Rena
    star
  • “There was no longer any doubt in my mind that I was in the right place for my drug abuse treatment, “Of all the rehabs I could have chosen, I am glad I picked The Hathaway Recovery Support hope respect and care is what i was offered thanks for everything Hathaway recovery you are the best

    Inga
    star
  • Hathaway Recovery is an awesome place the whole staff has been so helpful they are very professional and very nice Hathaway recovery is a great place to get your addiction treated my brother is doing very well there and we are so glad they were very understanding and willing to help him.

    Lisa
    star
  • A very welcoming environment and kind hearted staff that really took care of my relative and cleaned him up. Thanks Hathaway recovery.

    David
    star
  • When your loved one is sick and needs help you look for the best and I found the best for my son thank you for everything you did for him.

    Makruhi
    star

    Hathaway Recovery is an exclusive addiction rehab treatment center in California offering healing recovery from all substances. We’re proud to provide a great combination for drug, alcohol, psychiatric and psychological recovery treatment backed by experts in the addiction treatment field. Our drug and alcohol rehab is built on the cornerstone of care and compassion and accommodates clients and their families from all backgrounds to educate, inform, and create change around substance use disorder. In a secluded mountain hill luxury resort, our facility offers a therapeutic environment and array of clinical modalities to help individuals and their families. Our staff are also multilingual to address the needs of clients from anywhere in the world.



    *100% Private & Fully Confidential form
    I authorize and consent to give permission to Hathaway Recovery to verify my personal data and Health Care Insurance benefits.
    I understand that I have the option to choose various methods of communication( text, email, chat, etc). and I can revoke this permission in writing at any time. I consent to the conditions and instructions outlined in this fully confidential form & privacy policy.

    map

    Insurance Verification Form

    FULLY CONFIDENTIAL

    All treatment inquiries and personal information is always kept confidential.

    By clicking Check Insurance, I acknowledge that I have read and understood Policy and Privacy.

    Private pay and most insured policies (PPO) are accepted. In network with Multiplan, Tricare. Unfortunately, we are not contracted with medi-care, med-ical, med-icad, ieh-p or kaiser insurance and were not able to accept mentioned insurance policies.

    Copyright © 2022 Hathaway Recovery Center · Privacy Policy · Employment Opportunities

    Sitemap HTML | Sitemap XML

    MEMBER OF LEGITSCRIPT MONITORED

    24/7 Help Is Standing By, Call Us Now
    /
    GRANTED FOR
    HIGHEST STANDARDS
    IN ADDICTION RECOVERY