Taking drugs changes your brain chemistry, making it harder for you to think clearly and make healthy choices. Drug use can also cause problems in your relationships, work and school performance, finances and health. It’s important to seek treatment right away.

Treatment options include different types of therapy (counseling) and medications. Evidence-based therapies are those that have been scientifically tested and shown to be effective. Some of these therapies are cognitive behavioral therapy, family-based therapy and interpersonal therapy. In addition to talk therapy, some people use self-help support groups. A therapist or licensed counselor can help you locate a group that meets in your area.

Some drugs can cause physical withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop using them. These include alcohol, opiates (heroin, morphine and other opioids), cocaine and amphetamines. The withdrawal usually starts a few hours after your last dose and may last a few days. The physical withdrawal can be dangerous and even life-threatening in some cases. Other withdrawal symptoms can include vomiting, sweating and seizures.

You can treat drug addiction with medicine, lifestyle changes and therapy. Your treatment plan will include a detox process to get rid of the drugs from your body. Some of the medicines used in treatment are antidepressants, analgesics and barbiturates. Many people who struggle with substance misuse also have mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). People with a mental illness are more likely to use drugs to cope with their symptoms.

A substance use disorder can lead to other problems, including legal issues, problems at work or school, financial difficulties and neglect of children. It’s important to seek treatment for your drug use problem as soon as possible to prevent these problems from arising or worsening.

Drugs can be abused for a variety of reasons, from curiosity and peer pressure to trying to relieve stress or feel better. Using drugs to cope with other problems can also be very dangerous and increase the risk of accidents or injuries.

Once someone develops a drug addiction, it’s often hard for them to quit on their own. Many people need help to do so. Family and friends can be supportive by encouraging them to see a therapist or attend a self-help support group. They can also offer moral support and help with finding housing or transportation if necessary.

Treatment for drug addiction can be expensive and not always covered by insurance. Some people cannot afford treatment or have limited access to it because of a lack of providers in their community, long waitlists at existing facilities and insurance requirements and limitations. Medications can reduce withdrawal symptoms and drug cravings. Some can also be used long-term to help people stay in recovery. Research is ongoing to find new treatments, interventions and tests for substance use disorders. Mayo Clinic doctors are leading this effort. They’re testing ways to diagnose and treat addictions and other mental illnesses, such as depression, bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.