The Risks of Self-Medication Practices

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There are many risks of self-medication with prescription or over-the-counter drugs, or illicit substances. Sometimes, self-medicating can lead to dependence on the substance. In the worst cases, it can cause serious health problems or even death.

Read on to learn more about the many risks of self-medication practices and find out how to get effective addiction and mental health treatment.

What Is Self-Medication?

Self-medicating means taking drugs, herbs, or home remedies on your own or the advice of someone else, without asking a doctor. It’s a way people try to look after their health by themselves.

In the United States, many people use self-medication for small injuries and minor illnesses. This helps reduce the burden on the healthcare system. The problems start when people use self-medication for serious health issues, like mental health conditions. Instead of seeing a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment, some people use drugs or alcohol to cope with their symptoms. This can lead to improper treatment and may cause new problems, like addiction (substance use disorder).

Why Do People Self-Medicate?

People self-medicate for many reasons, especially when dealing with symptoms of mental health conditions. Here are some common ones:

Cost of treatment

Seeing a doctor and buying medications can be very expensive. Some people might try to save money by treating themselves with over-the-counter drugs, home remedies, or other substances.

Fear of stigma

Mental health issues can carry a lot of stigma. People might worry others will judge or think less of them if they seek help. To avoid this judgment, they might turn to self-medicating to manage their symptoms easily.

Hiding or denying the problem

Admitting you have a health problem, especially a mental health issue, can be hard. Some people might not want to face their problem and use self-medication as a way to hide or deny it.

Past treatment failures

It can be discouraging if previous medications or treatments don’t work well. Some people might try self-medicating in hopes of finding a solution that works better for them.

Fear of medication side effects

Prescription medications can have side effects that some people find unpleasant or scary. They might use other substances, thinking they are safer or have fewer side effects.

Managing symptoms of mental health disorders

Perhaps the primary risk of self-medication is using drugs or alcohol to cope with symptoms of mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD. They might use substances to numb their feelings, reduce stress, or lift their mood.

Lack of access to proper healthcare

Some people live in areas where it’s hard to find doctors or mental health professionals. Without access to proper healthcare, they might turn to self-medicating as their only option.

Rapid relief

Self-medicating can provide quick, temporary relief from pain, stress, or emotional discomfort. This immediate effect can make it seem like a good solution, even though it often leads to bigger problems later.

Influence from loved ones

Sometimes, people self-medicate because they see others around them doing it. Friends or family members might suggest using certain substances as a way to feel better, making it seem like an acceptable practice.

Avoiding withdrawal symptoms

People who are already dependent on certain substances might continue to use them to avoid the uncomfortable symptoms of withdrawal. This can create a cycle of continued self-medication and dependence.

Feeling of control

Self-medicating can give people a false sense of control over their health. They might feel empowered by choosing their treatments instead of following a doctor’s advice.

Even if their reasons don’t make sense to others, try to understand and not dismiss their feelings. Being kind and supportive can help guide them toward the right medical treatment and support. Encouraging them to talk to a doctor or mental health professional can help them begin their journey to better health.

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Different Types of Self-Medication Practices

People self-medicate in many different ways. These include:

  • OTC drugs: Many people use medications they can buy at the store without a prescription. These include pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen. People also use cold medications and allergy medications. While these can help with minor issues, using them, too often or in the wrong way can be harmful.
  • Using prescription drugs without a prescription: Some people take prescription drugs that were not prescribed to them. They might get drugs from friends, and family, or even buy them illegally. Commonly misused prescription drugs include painkillers, anti-anxiety medications, and stimulants. Using these drugs without a doctor’s guidance can lead to serious health problems, including addiction.
  • Alcohol or illicit drugs: Alcohol and illegal drugs, like heroin, cocaine, and meth, are sometimes used to feel better or cope with stress and emotions. This type of self-medication is dangerous and can quickly lead to addiction, legal trouble, and serious health issues.
  • Herbs and supplements: Herbs, vitamins, and supplements are often used to boost health or treat symptoms, examples include using St. John’s Wort for depression or echinacea for colds. While some herbs and supplements can be helpful, others might not be safe without a doctor’s advice. They can interact with other medications and cause side effects.
  • Home remedies: Home remedies, such as teas, essential oils, and natural treatments, are popular for treating minor ailments. For instance, people might use honey and lemon for a sore throat, or peppermint oil for headaches. While many home remedies are safe, some can be ineffective or harmful if incorrectly used.
  • Food: People sometimes use food to cope with stress or emotional pain. Some people eat when stressed, while others eat too little. This can lead to problems like weight gain, malnutrition, and eating disorders.
  • Exercise and physical activity: Some people use exercise to manage stress and emotions. While exercise is generally healthy, overdoing it can lead to injuries and other health problems.
  • Technology: People sometimes use social media, video games, or online shopping, to distract themselves from their problems. While this can provide temporary relief, it can lead to serious issues if not balanced with other healthy activities.
  • Sleep: Some people use sleep to escape from emotional pain. Oversleeping can lead to its own set of health issues, including feeling tired all the time and missing out on important activities.
  • Work or hobbies: Diving into work or hobbies can be a way to avoid dealing with problems. While staying busy can be good, you should address underlying issues and not hide from them.

Seek help if you are self-medicating for any reason. Call 877-679-2132 for immediate assistance.

The 5 Biggest Risks of Self-Medication

All cases of self-medication are unique, but this is generally a dangerous practice. These are the biggest risks:

1) Wrong treatment and side effects

When people self-medicate, they might use the wrong medication for their problem. This can make their condition worse or cause new health issues. Many drugs have side effects, and without a doctor’s guidance, people might take too much or mix medications that shouldn’t be combined. This can lead to serious side effects, like feeling sick, dizzy, or even having dangerous reactions.

2) Addiction

Using drugs or alcohol to feel better can lead to addiction. This means people may start to rely on these substances and feel like they can’t live without them. Over time, this can make it very hard to stop using the substance, and it can take over their life.

3) Delayed medical help

When people try to handle serious health issues alone, they might not see a doctor in time. this delay can make their condition worse and harder to treat. Getting proper medical help early can make a big difference in getting better.

4) Health complications

Taking the wrong medications or combining them in unsafe ways can cause serious health problems. This includes damage to important organs like the liver and kidneys, problems with blood pressure, or even overdose, which can be deadly.

5) Failing to treat the underlying issue

Self-medicating might mask the symptoms for a while, but it doesn’t fix the actual problem. This means the real issue remains untreated and can get worse over time. seeing a doctor can help address the root cause of the problem and lead to better long-term health, avoiding the risk of self-medication.

You should always talk to a doctor before trying to treat health problems on your own. Proper medical advice ensures you get the safest and most effective care.

Self-Medication | FAQs

How do I know when to seek help for self-medication?

Seek help if you use drugs or alcohol to cope with problems or if it starts to affect your daily life. If you can’t stop alone, it’s time to ask for help.

Is self-medication always bad?

Self-medication can be dangerous because it may hide serious problems and cause addiction. It’s better to talk to a doctor about any issues you have.

What if I can’t stop self-medicating?

If you can’t stop self-medicating, reach out for professional help. Therapists, doctors, and support groups can provide the assistance you need to quit.

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Get Help for Self-Medication & Get Back to Your Best Self at Ohio Recovery Centers

If you have been self-medicating and need help getting back on track, reach out to Ohio Recovery Centers.

We offer outpatient treatment programs for all addictions and mental health disorders. This lets you continue at home, work, or school while getting effective treatment at our rehab in Cincinnati, OH.

Medical detox makes the withdrawal process safer and easier. During ongoing outpatient treatment, you can access personalized therapies, such as:

Contact admissions by calling 877-679-2132.

Table of Contents

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Joseph Gilmore

Joseph Gilmore has been working in the addiction industry for half a decade and has been writing about addiction and substance abuse treatment during that time. He has experience working for facilities all across the country. Connect with Joe on LinkedIn.
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Christopher Glover CDCA

My name is Christopher Glover, and I am from Cincinnati, Ohio. I am currently in school and working to grow in competence to better support our community. As a recovering individual I know the struggles that you or a loved one can go through and that there is help for anything you may be struggling with.

The hardest part is asking for help and we are here as a team to best support you and your decision to start your journey towards a better future. Connect with Chris on LinkedIn

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Amanda Kuchenberg PRS CDCA

I recently joined Ohio Community Health Recovery Centers as a Clinical Case Manager. I am originally from Wisconsin but settled in the Cincinnati area in my early 20s.  My career started in the fashion industry but quickly changed as I searched to find my drive and passion through helping others who struggle with addiction. 

As someone who is also in recovery, I wanted to provide hope, share lived experience, and support others on their journey.  I currently have my Peer Recovery Support Supervision Certification along with my CDCA and plan to continue my education with University of Cincinnati so I can continue to aid in the battle against substance addiction. Connect with Amanda on LinkedIn.

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Patrick McCamley LCDC III

 Patrick McCamley (Clinical Therapist) is a Cincinnati native who has worked in substance use disorder/co-occurring mental health disorder treatment since 2019. Patrick received his bachelors degree in psychology from University of Cincinnati in 2021 and received his LCDC III (Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor) license from the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board in 2022. Patrick has worked in Clinical Operations, Clinical Case Management, and Clinical Therapy throughout his career.

Patrick has tremendous empathy and compassion for the recovery community, being in recovery himself since 2018. Patrick is uniquely qualified to be helpful because of the specific combination of his academic background and his own experience in recovery.

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Bill Zimmerman CDCA

Bill Zimmerman is a Greater Cincinnati Area native who has worked in substance use disorder/co-occurring mental health disorder treatment since 2018. Bill received his (Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant) license from the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board in 2020.

Bill has worked in Clinical Operations in both support and supervision, and Program facilitating and 12 step recovery support during his career. Bill has a passion for the recovery community, having been in recovery himself since 1982. Connect with Bill on LinkedIn

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Taylor Lilley CDCA, PRS

Growing up in Louisiana with addiction running rampant on both sides of my family. A life away from drugs and alcohol seemed impossible for someone like me. I remember what it was like sitting across from someone thinking there is no way they could ever understand what I was going through.

Sharing my experience offers a credibility and a certain type of trust with clients that only someone who has walked down this road can illustrate. To immerse myself further into the field of addiction, I am currently studying at Cincinnati State for Human and Social Services.  I hope I never forget where I came from, if I can do it, so can you!

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Thomas Hunter LSW

Hello my name is Thomas Hunter. I was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio. I am a licensed social worker.In my scope of practice I have worked in the areas of mental health and recovery for thirty years. The clients I have worked with in my career have ranged in age from seven to seventy.

I strive each day to serve my purpose of helping those in need and I believe I do so by utilizing all of my experiences to accomplish my goal of supporting those who desire to establish their sobriety and maintain it in their recovery. Connect with Thomas on LinkedIn.

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Mary D.Porter,LICDC

 My name is Mary D. Porter. I received my Masters of Social Work in 2008 from The University of Cincinnati. I received My Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor Licensure in 2001. I retired from The Department of Veteran Affairs Medical Center on April 14, 2014. Currently, I am the Associate Clinical Director for The Ohio Community Health Recovery Centers in Cincinnati.. Due to the fourth wave of the Opioid Epidemic in 2019,  I decided to enter back into the workforce to assist the addicted population.

The overdoses were astounding and I wanted to help.  I consider myself  to be an advocate for the addicted population. My compassion, resilience, empathy, wisdom, knowledge, experience and  love I have for this forgotten population goes beyond words. I consider what I do for the addicted population as a calling versus a “career,” because I too was once an “addict and alcoholic.” Today I am 45.5 years alcohol and substance free.

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Ben Lemmon LCDC III

Hello, my name is Ben Lemmon, and I’m the Vice President and Clinical Director at Ohio Community Health Recovery Centers. I’ve been working in the addiction and mental health field since 2013 and decided to enter the field after overcoming my own challenges with addiction.

When I first meet a client, I always explain to them that the reason we are meeting is because they are not capable of obtaining or maintaining sobriety, and my goal is to create a person that can maintain sobriety. I believe a person’s personality is made up of their thoughts, feelings and actions and my job is to help clients identify the thoughts, feelings and actions that have them disconnected from recovery and provide them with the tools to live a healthy and happy life. Connect with Ben on LinkedIn