Did you know that nearly half of all drug addicts started with gateway drugs? Almost 90%of cocaine users smoked tobacco, drank alcohol, or used marijuana first. Now, you are probably wondering what a getaway drug is. Some people may think gateway drugs are harmless but they can be extremely dangerous.
In this blog, Genesis House will discuss the dangers of gateway drugs and how to avoid them. Keep reading for more information.
What is a gateway drug?
Generally speaking, gateway drugs are those drugs that can lead to the use of another and more dangerous drugs. An example of gateway drugs is alcohol and marijuana.
Alcohol’s psychoactive properties cause the brain to respond differently to emotions and stimuli when drinking. It was found in the 2020 National Survey of Drug Use and Health 85.2% of ages 18 and older admitted to having tried alcohol at least once.
People who abuse this substance are more likely to experiment with other drugs in the future, which is why it is considered a gateway drug. The central nervous system is affected by this type of drug. An individual’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are affected by them.
How to stop substance abuse?
Now that we have defined what a gateway drug is, you might be wondering how to stop substance abuse. Although there is no one-size-fits-all solution to preventing drug and alcohol abuse, many techniques can be employed:
- Take a look at the risk factors: Many studies have shown that mental illness and addiction run in families, but they can be prevented by considering your family history. A thorough understanding of your physical and environmental risk factors will increase your chances of success.
- Live a balanced life: People often turn to drugs or alcohol when they do not feel satisfied with their lives. Living a balanced and healthy life can be achieved by practicing stress management skills.
- Seek help if you have a mental illness: Mental illness and substance abuse are often intertwined. You can seek treatment for mental disorders such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder with the assistance of a licensed therapist or counselor. Your symptoms can be alleviated without turning to drugs or alcohol with the help of a professional.
- Don’t succumb to peer pressure: Don’t allow friends or family members to pressure you into using substances. According to the saying, “we become like those we surround ourselves with,” we are more likely to abuse drugs and alcohol if we associate with those who do.
Whether you’re a teenager or an adult, peer pressure is an inevitable part of your life. Keep your peer pressure at bay by saying no, or planning to stay drug-free.
Gateway drugs are often the first step on a dangerous path to addiction
So, what is a gateway drug? Simply put, they are any drugs that can lead to the use of other medications. Sometimes people start with a drug that’s easily accessible and relatively harmless, like marijuana, and then move on to more complex substances.
Other times, people may be introduced to more dangerous drugs by friends or family members who have already developed dependencies. No matter how it happens, though, using gateway drugs is incredibly risky.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please don’t hesitate to contact us and reach out for help. The team at Genesis House luxury rehab is here to support you every step of the way.
