Addiction vs. Substance Abuse

Substance abuse and addiction may seem like interchangeable words, but in reality, they have different meanings, and it’s essential to understand these differences.

In this blog, we’ll look at the following:

• What is the difference between substance addiction and substance abuse?
• What are the early signs of addiction?
• What are some of the symptoms of addiction?
• What is the first step in the treatment process for addiction?
• What is considered substance abuse?
• What are some examples of substance abuse?
• What are the most common substance abuse disorders?
• What is the general treatment for substance use disorders?

What is the Difference Between Substance Addiction and Substance Abuse?

Although substance addiction and substance abuse are often used interchangeably, these terms have different meanings and describe two separate situations.

Substance abuse can be periodic and casual. Using any kind of substance in a way other than directed falls under the definition of substance abuse. Likewise, using illicit substances, even occasionally, is substance abuse.

Substance addiction, on the other hand, is when a substance alters your brain due to the strength of the substance or frequency of use. The brain craves the substance because the reward center triggers feel-good chemicals, leading to addiction.

What are the Early Signs of Addiction?

You can look for the signs of addiction in others and yourself to stay aware of signs of physical dependence on a substance. When determining the risk of addiction, look for the following signs:

• Increased tolerance for a substance
• More frequent use of a substance
• Withdrawals when not using (e.g., moodiness, anxiety, sleep problems, etc.)
• Inability to stop using the substance
• Going to extreme or illegal lengths to acquire substance
• Neglecting or falling behind in responsibilities
• Agitation, anxiety, mood swings, anger, and paranoia
• Changes in personality
• Isolation and social withdrawal

In developing an addiction, the body sends messages to the brain that it needs the substance. This leads to preoccupation with finding your next “fix” and maintaining the high the substance provides.

What are Some of the Symptoms of Addiction?

While it depends on the substance being used, addiction can cause physical and mental manifestations due to changes in the body and brain. Risks can be fatal when a drug is high in potency, used in high doses, or combined with other substances. 

It’s challenging to name symptoms of alcohol or drug addiction because different substances affect the body differently. You may also experience a substance in ways another person doesn’t due to numerous factors (e.g., dose, existing health problems, co-current drugs or alcohol use, age, weight, gender, etc.).

General Symptoms of Addiction

• Euphoria
• Isolation or increased socialness
• Sex drive increase or sexual dysfunction
• Loss of muscle control
• Anxiety, paranoia, and agitation
• Increased blood pressure or heart rate
• Loss of muscle control
• Cognitive dysfunction
• High energy or extreme relaxation
• Growing tolerance to the substance
• Loss of interest in hobbies, work, or relationships
• Physical and mental health issues
• Taking part in risky behavior to acquire substance

Symptoms of the Most Common Substance Addiction

Opioids

• Euphoria
• Gastrointestinal problems (constipation, nausea, vomiting)
• Cognitive dysfunction
• Drowsiness
• Slowed breathing
• Sweating
• Anxiety, irritability, and mood swings
• Inability to speak
• Blue skin or dark-colored lips
• Decreased sex drive

Stimulants

• Euphoria
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sleep problems
• Sweating
• Headaches and migraines
• Increased energy and focus
• Paranoia
• Reduced appetite and weight loss
• Anxiety, panic attacks, and irritability
• Tremors and shaking
• Dilated pupils

Alcohol

• Euphoria
• Passing out
• Dizziness and confusion
• Body tremors and shakiness
• Fear, anxiety, agitation, and aggression
• Nausea and vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Poor coordination
• Depression
• Sweating

Nicotine

• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Anxiety and panic attacks
• Irritability
• Increased appetite and weight gain
• Depression
• Sleeping problems
• Cognitive dysfunction
• Tightened throat when cravings manifest

Addiction is a severe problem that must be addressed. As it progresses, symptoms can grow to be more frequent or intense. As tolerance builds up, the body will crave more of the substance and increase the risk of an overdose and long-term health problems.

What is the First Step in the Treatment Process for Addiction?

The first “unofficial” step in the addiction treatment process is recognition. You must see the reality of your problem to see improvements in treatment. Once the official treatment process begins, you’ll start by detoxing from the substance. This is done safely through medical supervision, medication assistance, and practicing healthy coping to overcome cravings.

What is Considered Substance Abuse?

Substance abuse is when you use a substance in a way other than instructed, as stated on the substance’s container or by a health professional. Using illicit substances is also a form of substance abuse due to being illegal and the risks associated with any dose of the substance.

What are Some Examples of Substance Abuse?

• Taking a more frequent or higher dose than instructed of prescription or over-the-counter drugs (sleeping pills, ibuprofen, anti-depressants, etc.)
• Drinking alcohol at higher rates than recommended
  • Five or more drinks daily; 14 or more drinks weekly for men
  • Three or more drinks daily; 7 or more drinks weekly for women
  • Underage drinking
  • Combining alcohol with medications
• Using illicit drugs in any capacity
• Combining non-compatible drugs

Even the most basic forms of substances, such as headache medicines or cough syrup, can be abused when misused. In the case of frequent use due to ongoing issues such as migraines or stomach pains, it’s important to talk with your doctor to find a safe method of treating health concerns.

What are the Most Common Substance Abuse Disorders?

• Alcohol Use Disorder. In 2019, 14.5 million people in the United States aged 12 or older had AUD (6.8 percent men and 3.9 percent women).
• Nicotine. A 2021 survey revealed that 23.6 million people ages 12 and older in the United States experienced nicotine dependence in the past 30 days. 
• Marijuana. In 2022, 52.5 million people aged 12 and older (18.7%) reported using cannabis in the past 12 months.
• Opioids. Three million US citizens have had or currently suffer from opioid use disorder (OUD). Opioid deaths have continually increased since 2010, with more than 80,000 reported deaths in 2021.
• Cocaine. Among those ages 12 or older, a 2021 survey stated 1.4 million people had a cocaine use disorder in the past 12 months.
• Stimulants. A less recent survey (2015 to 2016 from SAMHSA) reported 400,000 individuals with a prescription stimulant use disorder. Additionally, 5 million people misused prescription stimulants at least once.

What is the General Treatment for Substance Use Disorders?

Treatment for substance use disorders involves a combination of medication and therapies. Having supportive people such as medical professionals, family, and friends is important as you go through treatment. While each rehab center may differ slightly in how they approach addiction treatment, it typically looks like an individualized plan with the following attributes:

• Medical detox
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
• Behavioral therapy (Individual and family counseling, BioFeedback, EMDR, Holistic therapies, etc.)
• Support groups (commonly ongoing during and after treatment)
• Education on coping skills, healthy living, and life skills

Treatment varies depending on factors like whether you’re doing an inpatient or outpatient program, the severity of the addiction, and how involved the family is. Finding a rehab focused on making you a plan that’s individualized and tends to your unique situation is essential.

Soul Surgery’s Treatment For Substance Abuse and Addiction

Our integrative medicine addiction centers offer a personal, practical approach to substance abuse and addiction. Located in beautiful, sunny Scottsdale, AZ, our team of professionals helps you as the patient design a treatment plan that caters to your needs.

We offer a variety of therapies and holistic options, including BioFeedback, EMDR, and equine therapy, to name a few. Please reach out today to learn more about how our programs can serve your sobriety goals. We look forward to hearing from you!