Ozarks Teen Challenge On the Mental Effects of Drug Use
At Ozarks Teen Challenge, we know that there is no such thing as “casual drug use.” Any drug use, even when occasional, has consequences. In fact, occasional drug use can take a major toll on your mental health. Ozarks Teen Challenge specializes in teen drug treatment and rehabilitation, so understand the impacts of drug and alcohol. Here, we discuss some of the ways occasional drug use can impact your mental health.
Increases Feelings of Depression
Many drugs interact with our brain’s serotonin and dopamine levels. These chemicals are sometimes called “pleasure chemicals,” and function to regulate our mood. mens health. Some substances cause your brain to release an excess amount of these “pleasure chemicals,” so when you get high, you feel a sense of euphoria. Afterward, your brain is not able to produce the same amount of pleasure chemicals, causing you to feel depressed. For some, this sense of depression is short-lived, lasting a few days at most, but others feel long-lasting effects. This is particularly evident for people who already have a history of depression.
Mood Swings
Drugs have a major effect on our mood. While you may feel happy and relaxed when you are high, you may feel a sense of irritability and anxiety when you are coming down. Although many people associate these dramatic mood swings with addicts, it occurs even for people who take drugs on occasion. The more you take drugs, the more pronounced your mood swings become, leading to erratic, destructive behavior. At Ozarks Teen Challenge, we offer behavioral therapy which teaches young people new, constructive ways to deal with emotion.
Sleep Problems
Many substances impact our sleep cycle. Some substances, such as cocaine and ecstasy, make us feel awake and energized, causing us to stay awake later than usual. Other drugs, like alcohol and marijuana, can decrease REM sleep, causing us to not get enough rest. Not getting enough rest can have a huge effect on our mental health, impacting our ability to form memories, learn now information, concentrate, and perform basic tasks, like driving. To keep your mind sharp and active throughout your life, sleep is incredibly important.
Contact Ozarks Teen Challenge
At Ozarks Teen Challenge, we know that occasional drug use can lead to serious, long-term problems. Luckily, these problems can be combated through holistic drug treatment. This is why our treatment program focuses on wilderness therapy, behavioral therapy, academic achievement, and Christian discipleship. We strive to give young people the tools they need to overcome addiction and lead fulfilling, healthy lives. If you are concerned about your teen, contact Ozarks Teen Challenge today.
