How Substance Abuse Changes Your Personality – Key Facts

Introduction

Substance abuse impacts physical health, mental well-being, and emotions. At Jeevan Sankalp, a leading Nasha Mukti Kendra in Dehradun, we recognize addiction’s profound effects on personality. Let’s explore key facts about substance abuse and behavior.

Brain Changes

Substance abuse alters brain structure and function, affecting reward, impulse control, and emotion regulation. Drugs and alcohol disrupt brain chemistry, leading individuals to prioritize substance use for euphoria.

Behavior Shifts

Substance abuse often causes secretive behavior. Individuals withdraw from loved ones, straining relationships. Isolation increases as substance use takes precedence.

Emotional Instability

Mood swings are common. Aggression and anger arise when challenged about substance use due to brain chemistry changes.

Decreased Motivation

Addiction affects motivation, leading to poor performance at work or school and apathy toward activities.

Strained Relationships

The personality changes caused by substance abuse strain relationships with loved ones. Individuals may become more hostile or detached, misinterpreting efforts to help as personal attacks. This cycle of conflict and isolation exacerbates addiction and makes breaking free without professional assistance challenging.

Specific Substance Effects

Different substances cause specific personality changes:

1. Stimulants (e.g., cocaine) increase aggression and paranoia.

2. Depressants (e.g., alcohol) cause depression and lethargy.