Consequences Related to Substance Use and Abuse
The following outline just a handful of numerous physical, psychological, sexual, relationship & social, job & financial and legal problems caused by or worsened by substance use:
PHYSICAL
- Convulsions with loss of consciousness
- Chest congestion, wheezing
- Hepatitis or other liver problems
- Sever or frequent headaches
- Severe weight loss
- Heart palpitations
PSYCHOLOGICAL
- Panic attacks
- Severe depression
- Paranoia, suspiciousness
- Suicidal thoughts
- Memory problems
SEXUAL
- sexual obsession or preoccupation
- risking AIDS through sexual behaviour
- loss of sex drive
RELATIONSHIP or SOCIAL
- arguments with partner/spouse, family (parents, siblings)
- social isolation
- parents/spouse/family threatened to leave or has left
JOB or FINANCIAL
- jeopardy of losing job
- late and less productive at work
- in debt
- behind paying bills
- missed opportunities for promotion
LEGAL
- Arrested for:
- Possession of illicit substances
- Assault, violent or disorderly conduct
- Sale of illicit substances
- Theft or robbery