Substance abuse disorder impacts every sphere of the individual and their family’s lives. However, by the time one realizes this, it is too late. This is why individuals from a young age are guided to practice complete restraint from drugs and alcohol. However, as they grow up, various sociological and psychological factors may push them into the vicious cycle of substance abuse, making it difficult to come out.
If you or someone in your family has been struggling with substance abuse for a long time, you might have started to notice the social and economic impact that it has on your and your family’s lives. Therefore, to safeguard yourself from financial and emotional strains, it is crucial to make yourself aware of the health insurances that provide monetary assistance for substance abuse. For instance, the insurance coverage at Pathway Recovery focuses on offering appropriate financial help based on individual needs. Apart from making yourself aware of the different insurance plans for substance abuse, it is also important to realize the social and economic impact of substance abuse on an individual’s life, encouraging them to put in their 100% effort in the recovery journey.
Substance Use Disorder Means Lower Income Levels
The obvious impact of substance use disorder is lower household income levels. Now, most people have the misconception that individuals from a lower income level are more susceptible to drug/alcohol abuse due to financial stress. Although this is not entirely false, there is another side to the picture as well.
Addiction means that a major portion of the individual’s income goes into acquiring and consuming the substance. Moreover, there have also been instances where the individual lost their job due to their addiction. Hence, even if the individual had a good and stable income source, addiction may lead them to the trappings of poverty.
Homelessness is a Common Phenomenon Seen Among Addicts
The homeless are the most economically vulnerable section of people in American society. One of the most common connecting threads between homelessness and economic vulnerability is substance use. Most homeless people are addicted to one of the other substances, which makes them financially unstable and pushes them to the streets.
Of course, there are other financial reasons as well as why a person is homeless, but substance abuse tops the list of connecting factors.
Emotional Instability is a Part of Substance Abuse
Mental health disorders and substance abuse are interlinked. Individuals who suffer from substance abuse deal with complex negative emotions such as shame, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and suicidal thoughts.
Since addiction is stigmatized in society, there is always a constant feeling of shame. Moreover, the addict may also feel that they have failed their loved ones, which makes them remain in a constant state of guilt.
Addiction Takes a Toll on Physical Health
It is no secret that addiction takes a huge toll on the individual’s physical health. In fact, deterioration of physical health is the first thing that is experienced as an impact of addiction. Firstly, substance abuse accelerates aging. Being addicted to drugs and alcohol causes tooth decay, cardiovascular diseases, pulmonary changes, and sleeplessness, which gives the user an aged look. Moreover, addiction also increases the chances of strokes, putting the life of the addict at a high risk.
Medical Treatment and Recovery Comes at a Huge Cost
Most people who opt for medical treatment for substance abuse know that it comes at a huge financial cost. This is one of the reasons why addicts struggle with their addiction alone and don’t seek professional help.
If this situation sounds similar, it is essential to opt for a health insurance facility that includes treatment for addiction as well. This ensures that the financial burden of recovery is less, and you fight the battle of substance abuse without any worry.
Conclusion
Substance abuse alters all the spheres of the addict and their family’s lives. Hence, before you consume your first sip of alcohol or indulge in some high, it is crucial to remember the impact of abuse.
Moreover, if you are already struggling with substance abuse and looking for help, don’t worry; there is hope. To begin with, it is important to opt for health insurance that covers substance use disorder to reduce your financial burden. Remember to choose a rehab center that accepts your health insurance and offers top-notch facilities.
