What is Polysubstance Abuse?

What comes to mind when you think about drug abuse? Typically, it’s an image of someone drinking to excess or popping pills for a high. However, did you know that there are situations when this definition doesn’t work? What is polysubstance abuse, and how could it be affecting you today?

When Getting High is the Focus

Taking lots of medication can lead you to asking what is polysubstance abuse

Many people with a drug abuse problem prefer one drug to another. Someone may have an alcohol use disorder or an opiate problem. In contrast, some individuals focus only on getting to the high. They don’t worry too much about how they do it.

Stimulants, depressants, and hallucinogens are fair game. What is polysubstance abuse if not a willingness to do or take anything for a mind-altering experience? Sometimes, you might use multiple drugs to offset the comedown of a primary substance. A case in point is meth, which has a troublesome wearing-off period.

What is Polysubstance Abuse That You May Not Be Aware Of?

It’s possible not to know that you have a dependency on multiple drugs. This problem typically occurs when you take adulterated substances. Examples include MDMA, molly, and some strains of heroin. You may develop a dependency on the main ingredient but also on secondary ones such as ketamine, fentanyl, or cocaine.

Overcome an Addiction to Multiple Substances at Rehab

Therapists at almost any Orange County substance abuse treatment center will suggest a residential stay for recovery. Since it’s impossible to gauge how you’ll respond to the withdrawal of the drugs, there could be health risks. Moreover, there’s the possibility that the combination of drugs creates a unique addiction profile that leaves you susceptible to relapse.

An optimal treatment protocol answering the question, what is polysubstance abuse, would include:

  • Medical detox with around-the-clock monitoring and pharmacological intervention as needed
  • Seamless transition to rehab when you’ve overcome the physiological dependencies
  • Availability of 30, 60, and 90-day rehab that lets you heal at your own pace
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy that empowers you to recognize and change negative patterns in your thoughts, emotions, and actions
  • Nutrition therapy and fitness therapies that let you regain your strength and help you transition to a healthy lifestyle

Why Long-Term Rehab Could Be Exactly What You Need

Polysubstance abuse takes a lot out of you. It also robs you of your life, social skills, and career opportunities. Therefore, rebuilding takes a little longer. When you work with a mens drug rehab center that offers extended care, you take the time you need.

Nobody rushes you. Most importantly, you get to practice what living sober day to day looks like. There are no surprises. Instead, you build the confidence that you can do it on your own after discharge.

Don’t wait until things get worse. Reach out for help to Clear Life Recovery today. What is polysubstance abuse and its range of symptoms if not an opportunity to reinvent yourself? Call us at 866-261-7291 today to start your new life, drug-free.