Drug addiction is viewed to be a chronic, relapsing and potentially deadly disease that affects both behavior and brain function. Sadly the disease of addiction can’t be cured but thankfully it is treatable. According to recent studies 50% of those who struggle with an eating disorder also struggle with drug addiction. That’s 5x higher than what is seen in the general population. These disorders affect both men and woman. When eating disorders and addiction are combined the chance of death rises due to increased medical risks and suicides. Someone who is suffering with eating disorders and addiction tend to have severe medical problems including; stroke, cardiovascular disease, cancer, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B and C, lung disease and cognitive changes.
“First on the eating disorders list is Anorexia Nervosa. Anorexia is characterized by self-starvation and excessive weight loss. The following are common anorexia symptoms: Refusal to maintain body weight at or above a minimally normal weight for height, body type, age, and activity level.” - HealthyPlace.com
Eating disorders and addiction are both influenced by several things, including biological, environmental, genetic and psychological factors. Many scientists believe that genetics is the main influence in these diseases. The brain reacts similar to both eating disorders and addiction, the neurotransmitters that influence addiction are shared with some of the same that influence an eating disorder.
In addition to drugs and alcohol people with eating disorders tend to abuse both prescription medication like asminor tranquillizers and psychostimulants. Many over-the-counter drugs are used and abused in correlation with the eating disorder. Diet pills, stool softeners, diuretics and laxatives are among the most common.
In some cases substance abuse can lead to one suppressing their appetite which can lead to significant weight loss. This fast and sudden weight loss many trigger an eating disorder to become more prevalent. On the other hand eating disorders can trigger other addictions to become part of the equation. Some with eating disorders seek out drugs to help suppress their appetite or boost their metabolism so they can see a faster loss of weight.
When someone is suffering with eating disorders and addiction many emotions become suppressed due to the drug use. When someone suppresses emotions they go unnoticed and therefore unaddressed. Dealing with daily emotions is a major factor in both maturing and developing coping skills. Developing coping skills is an integral part of living a happy life. Many people who suffer with these disease will become more and more depressed as time goes on.
The best way to avoid and prevent these issues is to address the diseases early on and at the first sign that they maybe active. Every single day approximately 9,000 young people aged 12 or older will use a narcotic for the first time. Studies state that kids who first tried drugs or alcohol at 14 years old or younger are 6x more likely to be classified alcoholism or addition as adults than those who had tried their first drink or drug after the age of 21.
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If you or a loved one are currently struggling with both eating disorders and addiction call Recovery Society today. We work with some of the best dual diagnosis treatment center in the United States. Give yourself the chance at a beautiful life help is available for you today!
