Is There a Link Between Substance Abuse and Impulsivity?

People turn to drugs and alcohol for different reasons. Some people want to experience a high, while others simply want to experience numbness, not feeling at all.  Research has been focusing on why people who abuse substances seem to also have a higher level of impulsivity or attraction to doing things that are higher risk. Learn more about this possible link and why it matters.

Research Says

Instead of looking at ‘sensation seekers,’ or those purely looking for a high, researchers are looking into ‘negative urgency,’ or the avoidance of displeasure. This may, researchers believer, drive people to impulsively use substances as a means to control emotions. Those who consume alcohol or drugs to normalize mood may be able to rid their urge to use by redirecting energy into meditation or relaxation techniques.

Energy Redirection

Looking at impulse control in people who struggle with substance abuse is tricky because it really depends on the individual person. Extrapolating some information from researchers on one study may negate findings in another study. It is important to understand that people who use substances may inherently be impulsive because their brains have been changed by the nature of addiction and drugs. Perhaps they were not that way prior, but their brains have changed due to the use of substances and created a sense of urgency to try new things, do anything to get the drugs, drink more to numb pain and, because they are using more substances over time, they become less able to control themselves and do more things impulsively. Redirecting energy into meditation or relaxation can help calm the mind and body when a person is in recovery. The journey to independence from drugs and alcohol is to recover from them and find healing in that journey.

Finding Hope

There is hope for people who struggle with substances. Impulse control is challenging and can keep a person locked in the cycle of substance abuse for a long time. It can make kicking those cravings and triggers out the window hard in recovery. That is why recovery takes a village. One cannot do it alone. If an individual is struggling with recovery it helps to have people around them to support the journey.

Recovery takes a village. There is no easy way to get out of addiction without support. Our medical staff and professional team can help you make the journey away from addiction to hope. If you are ready to make the journey, give us a call. Call us 24/7 at our toll-free number: 866-294-9401

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From https://serenityrecoverycenter.blogspot.com/2018/12/is-there-link-between-substance-abuse.html

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https://serenityrecoverycenter.wordpress.com/2018/12/11/is-there-a-link-between-substance-abuse-and-impulsivity/