Therapy for Polysubstance Abuse

Younger adults and people living with a co-occurring mental health disorder are at greater risk of polysubstance abuse. The Centers for Disease Control report that nearly half of all fatal drug overdoses in the U.S. involve multiple drugs. To learn more about substance abuse treatment options, call Seasons in Malibu today at 424-235-2009.

What Is Polysubstance Abuse?

Polysubstance abuse, also known as Polysubstance Use Disorder (PUD), refers to the deliberate combination of alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs, and prescription to enhance or alter the drugs’ effects.

Symptoms of polysubstance abuse can vary according to which substances are being used. Some of the general warning signs to be aware of include:

Building a tolerance to substances
Needing to use larger amounts to reach the desired effects
Cravings to use substances
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms between uses
Inability to control substance use
Isolating
Suffering consequences of substance abuse but continuing to use drugs
Declining mental health

Mixing substances is common. A study published by the American Public Health Association concluded that a large majority of study participants who were addicted to opioids also used non-opioid substances at the same time.

The Dangers of Polysubstance Abuse

When they are abused, drugs—including prescription medications—harm the body and can make existing health issues worse. The effects of polysubstance abuse can be both short- and long-term. Potential health complications include:

Brain injury
Heart attack
Liver damage
Overdose
Seizure
Stroke

The exact health risks vary by person and depend on which substances are being abused. Mixing two or more stimulants can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack while mixing depressants increases the risk of brain damage.

Polysubstance Abuse and Mental Health

All types of substance use can make mental health conditions worse. Drugs and alcohol may seem to alleviate symptoms initially, but the changes substances can make in the brain can have a negative impact on mental health in the long run.

When substances wear off, symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other disorders often intensify—fueling a cycle of increased substance use. Polysubstance abuse compounds that risk.

Anyone struggling with substance use should seek help, but for those with co-occurring mental health conditions, treatment is especially critical. If someone you care about is living with a mental health disorder and showing signs of substance use, contact us about polysubstance treatment in Malibu today.

What to Expect from a Polysubstance Abuse Rehab Program

The first step in any drug treatment program is detoxification. Medical supervision is strongly recommended during detox especially for clients using multiple substances, as they face a higher risk of severe withdrawal symptoms.

A comprehensive polysubstance addiction treatment program gives clients the tools they need to build new coping skills and explore the root causes of substance use. Common therapies include:

Individuals with co-occurring disorders will receive psychiatric care, including appropriate medications to manage mental health and related medical conditions.

Find Compassionate Polysubstance Addiction Treatment at Seasons in Malibu

Polysubstance abuse presents a serious risk of fatal overdose and other critical health complications. Fortunately, effective treatment options exist to help you break free from addiction.

If you’re seeking polysubstance abuse treatment in Malibu, Seasons in Malibu offers a comprehensive, compassionate approach tailored to your needs. Our evidence-based treatment is supported by luxury amenities, world-class clinicians, and personalized care.

Now is the time to take back control. Call 424-235-2009 to speak with our admissions team and begin your recovery journey.