Psychological Effects of Drug Addiction
According to MedicineNet, an individual who is living with a drug addiction for an extended period of time may begin to experience a number of serious psychological problems as a result of their dependence on drugs. These conditions can range from mild to serious but all will impact the life of the addicted individual in a negative manner.
Among the most common long-term psychological effects of drug addiction are:
Depression. As an individual develops a tolerance to drugs, it will take ever-increasing amounts of the substance to get high. When the individual is unable to achieve their desired state of euphoria, they may become depressed. Chronic depression also occurs as the drug addict feels shame and remorse about her condition. This creates a cycle of addiction; the more depressed the feel, the more likely they are to continue to use drugs.
Paranoia. Individuals with a cocaine addiction or marijuana addiction often report a feeling of paranoia over the course of their dependence. The feeling that “everyone is out to get them” is heightened by the fact that buying or using drugs is illegal and the belief that law enforcement is waiting around every corner. Over time, drug addicts tend to get more and more paranoid.
Anxiety. While waiting for their next dose of drugs, many individuals will begin to feel anxious or unsettled. Friends and family report that their loved one has trouble sitting still or staying focused on a single task for any significant amount of time. This anxiety and lack of focus can cause them to slack on job responsibilities and even lose their job. Relationships are also negatively affected by drug-induced anxiety. These are just some of the ways anxiety permeates the life of the drug addict.