Substance Abuse & Men's Health

 

The effects of substance abuse on men and women are similar – both sexes are susceptible to alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. In fact, a recent report revealed that 17 percent of U.S. adults aged 18 or older have abused at least one illicit drug in their lives as of 2017. Additionally, millions of men struggle with addictions each year without any help or treatment available to them. With the prevalence of substance abuse so high and the need to address it so great, it’s no wonder that men’s health is heavily impacted by substance abuse and its consequences. The health risks posed by substance abuse can be serious for anyone, but especially for men whose gender places them at an even higher risk than the general population. This article explores both the general impact of addiction on men’s health as well as specific risks that men face when struggling with substances beyond their grasp. Read on to learn more about men and women's individual experiences with drugs, how addiction affects our bodies differently, and what we can do to improve our overall health regardless of our past mistakes

The Impact of Substance Abuse on Men’s Health

Men who abuse drugs and alcohol are more likely to experience health problems. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), nearly three-quarters of men reporting substance abuse problems reported a mental health condition, including many who had co-occurring substance use disorders and disorders such as anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts. Many men report feelings of alienation and low self-esteem as a result of substance abuse. If you or someone you love is struggling with substance abuse, reaching out for help can improve the quality of your life and that of your loved ones. There are many treatment options available, including inpatient and outpatient programs as well as programs that target men’s specific needs.

Alcohol and Why It’s So Dangerous

Alcohol is the most commonly abused substance among men and women. Abuse of alcohol can have severe consequences on both men and women, but can be especially harmful for men. Alcohol abuse can increase your risk for health issues and cause a number of physical issues, including cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), pancreatitis (swelling of the pancreas), and injuries from accidents. Long-term alcohol abuse can also increase your risk for certain cancers, such as pancreatic cancer, mouth/throat cancer, and esophageal cancer.

Tobacco & Smoking Risk

Both men and women can experience health risks associated with tobacco use, but women’s health may be more directly impacted. Unfortunately, tobacco dependence is more common in women than men, with more than half of all women smokers. Smoking has numerous negative consequences on women’s health, including an increased risk of cancer, lung disease, and pregnancy complications such as miscarriage, stillbirth, and low birth weight. Smoking is particularly harmful to women’s reproductive health. Women who smoke are more likely to experience complications from common reproductive health conditions, such as infections, cervical abnormalities such as pre-cancerous cells, and abnormal pregnancies. Smoking can also increase women’s risk for heart disease, osteoporosis, and strokes.

Drugs of Abuse

This is another widely abused substance that has a significant impact on men’s health. Drug abuse causes serious damage to men’s bodies, including damage to the heart and brain. Drug abuse is also associated with a number of potentially deadly health issues for men, including infectious diseases, Unintentional injuries, such as falls and car accidents, are also risk factors for men who abuse drugs. Drug abuse can also cause STDs, including HIV, and have other reproductive health consequences, such as changes to sperm quality and number. In addition to these serious risks, drug abuse is also strongly linked with poor mental health and criminality. Drug abuse can lead to depression, social isolation, and thoughts of suicide.

Restoring Physical Balance in Recovery

Men who successfully recover from substance abuse can experience great physical health. Men with substance use disorders are likely to experience better health than men who don’t abuse substances. Recovery and maintenance of good physical health are essential to men’s overall wellbeing. If you’re a man and you’re struggling with a substance use disorder, you can improve your overall health by making healthy lifestyle choices. Healthy eating and regular exercise are important for men’s health and quality of life. If you’re in recovery, it’s important to note that you’re not alone and there are resources available to help you stay on track. A drug and alcohol intervention program is often a good first step for men who are struggling. In addition to treatment programs, it’s also important to have healthy support people in your life who can help you stay accountable and stay on track.

Conclusion

The health risks posed by substance abuse can be serious for anyone, but especially for men whose gender places them at an even higher risk than the general population. This article explored both the general impact of addiction on men’s health as well as specific risks that men face when struggling with substances beyond their grasp. Just as women can benefit from increased awareness and education around substance abuse, men can also improve their health by reaching out for help. There are many treatment options available, including inpatient and outpatient programs as well as programs that target men’s specific needs. If you or someone you love is struggling with substance abuse, reach out for help Drug rehabilitation centre in pune. There are people who will be willing to listen and assist you in getting back on track.