People often use the terms “substance abuse” and “abstinence” to mean the same thing, but knowing the difference is critical to finding the right way to handle substance abuse issues.
This article explains substance abuse vs. addiction to help you decide whether abstinence is right for you. When you understand the signs and effects of substance abuse and addiction, you can make smarter choices in your recovery.
What is Substance Abuse?
Substance abuse means using drugs or alcohol in a harmful way. If this behaviour continues, it can lead to problems at home, work, or school.
Signs of Substance Abuse
Substance abuse involves using drugs or alcohol too much (including illegal drugs and prescription medication), often leading to ignoring responsibilities and causing issues with others.
Common signs of substance abuse include:
Using more of a substance than planned
Spending a lot of time getting or using a substance
Continued use even when it starts to cause problems
Feeling a strong need to use it
What is Addiction?
Addiction shares many of the symptoms of substance abuse, with the main difference being that it is a long-term condition where you can't stop using a substance even when it is causing harm.
Signs of Addiction
Strong urges to use the substance often
Requiring more significant amounts to get the same effect
Spending a lot of time using a substance
Continuing use even when it is causing problems
Suffering withdrawal symptoms when you don't use it
Addiction includes a physical and mental dependence where your body and mind need the drug to feel normal.
Do you Need Abstinence?
Deciding if you need abstinence to live a sober life will depend on a variety of factors:
Genetics: Addiction may run in the family, putting you more at risk of addiction when you start abusing a substance.
Environmental Factors: Where you live and who you hang out with can influence substance abuse. Easy access to drugs or alcohol can make substance abuse that leads to addiction more likely.
Mental Health: Depression, anxiety, and stress can lead to substance abuse and addiction. Addressing these issues is an integral part of choosing abstinence.
Age: The age when you first start abusing a substance can increase the risk of addiction. Delaying the use of drugs or alcohol can help reduce the risk of addiction.
Social and family relationships: Family problems or lack of support in your family and social networks can make recovery or abstinence less likely. Creating a supportive environment and getting help will be critical to your recovery.
When is Abstinence Necessary?
Abstinence means to stop using drugs and alcohol entirely and is often essential to recovery.
Why You Should Consider Abstinence
If you have a history of substance abuse, it can remove the temptation to use.
Abstinence helps you focus on recovery from substances affecting your judgement.
For those at high risk, abstinence can help prevent relapses.
Are There Alternatives to Abstinence?
While most people will require abstinence, there are other options available, including:
Harm reduction strategies: Harm reduction means taking steps to reduce the adverse effects of drug use, using safer methods, and getting health support.
Moderation techniques: Some people can set limits and stick to them, which helps to prevent addiction.
Therapy and support groups: These can help you understand your substance use and teach you healthier coping mechanisms.
Where to Turn Next?
Knowing the difference between substance abuse and addiction is a big step toward finding the proper treatment for your recovery. While abstinence is the best option for most people, it is not the only way forward.
Recovery is a personal journey; personal goals and professional advice will be essential in creating your recovery plan. Reset My Future offers a complimentary first session to help you learn more about what recovery will look like. Call or visit the website today to learn more.
