While drugs and alcohol are harmful on their own, they can have damaging effects when mixed together. In social circles, young adults are more open to using different substances in conjunction to heighten the impact. This is especially true for marijuana and alcohol. As marijuana is being used more readily today alongside drinking, it is essential to understand the risks involved. This article discusses what happens when someone mixes drugs and alcohol, why it can lead to a stronger addiction, and how to avoid this risk. Lastly, we will discuss how addiction is a disease that necessitates active recovery.
Enhanced Effects of Both Substances
When alcohol and drugs (especially marijuana) are mixed, the effects can be intense. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), students who used alcohol and cannabis concurrently reported more negative effects than those who only drank alcohol. When substances are combined, their chemical makeup can interact and cause adverse reactions. This is especially true when mixing different types of drugs and alcohol.
For example, drinking alcohol while using marijuana can increase the risk of a heart attack. Alcohol can also interfere with how medications like painkillers and antidepressants work in the body. Additionally, drinking alcohol while taking illegal drugs like cocaine or ecstasy can lead to severe medical conditions such as coma or death. It is essential to be aware of these risks when considering mixing drugs and alcohol. Similarly, it is necessary to note that mixing substances increases the risk of developing an addiction to either or both substances.
Increased Risk of Overdose
The risks associated with mixing drugs and alcohol increase the possibility of overconsumption. According to The American Journal on Addictions, when marijuana is used with alcohol, there is an increased risk of severe consequences, including overdose. When marijuana and alcohol are combined, both substances can cause a decrease in motor skills, judgment, and coordination. As cannabis smokers may have increased awareness that they are impaired, this can be overwritten with the introduction of alcohol. This can lead to risky behavior such as drunk driving or continued experimentation.
The American Journal on Addictions further notes that alcohol can increase the level of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) in the bloodstream when smoked simultaneously, resulting in more intense psychoactive effects. These effects can cause an individual to become confused or disoriented, leading to possible injury or death. Additionally, combining alcohol with marijuana can cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and fainting. Given the risks associated with mixing drugs and alcohol, it is essential to be aware of the potential dangers and take steps to reduce the risk of overdose. If a person is using either substance, they must do it responsibly and in moderation.
Social Side Effects
The risk of mixing drugs is evident. Nevertheless, mixing these substances tends to be more common in social situations. The dangers of mixing drugs and alcohol in social situations are compounded by the fact that many people feel encouraged by their peers to experiment with substances. When this happens, people may not be aware of the potential risks they are courting. While not being a part of these social circles can be an obvious choice, it is better to preserve friendships by being honest and open with friends and acquaintances.
If someone will be in a situation that may involve drinking or using other substances, it is essential to talk to the friends ahead of time. Discussing these issues openly can help everyone to make more informed decisions about their consumption and health. Everyone should also agree to look out for each other and ensure that no one puts themselves at risk.
Open conversations about drugs and alcohol with peers can help create a safer environment for everyone. It is essential to discuss the consequences of mixing drugs and alcohol so that everyone knows the risks and how to look out for one another. Keeping one’s self and one’s friends safe is the priority, beginning with open conversations.
Finding Necessary Help
While alcohol and cannabis can be harmless in moderation, they become dangerous when people increase their usage and doses. As we’ve already discussed, it becomes a problem when both substances are used together. Addiction starts with small habits and leads to a lifestyle of abuse. This developing addiction affects one’s day-to-day life and friendships and separates them from what is healthy.
If someone is continually using substances to account for mental health instability or unhappiness, we ask that they please reach out to our facilities. Here at First Steps Recovery, we know how it feels to be trapped by our habits. We want everyone to be free from the pain of substance abuse. We want to help people find their happiness again and make decisions they can look back on with pride. Only then can they secure a happier future.
The problem of addiction is contagious and affects everyone, destroying lives and families. Addiction should not be approached carelessly; it needs to be combated and eliminated. To assist people in getting rid of this condition, we at First Steps Recovery built our clinic for addiction recovery. We dedicate our facilities to preserving healthy lives because we recognize substance abuse’s severity. We kindly ask that you give our assistance some thought if you are battling an alcohol or drug addiction. We continually put your needs first to create a secure environment for healing and recovery. We want you to be free of the harm caused by addiction. Call First Steps Recovery at (844) 489-0836 for more details about our programs.
The problem of addiction is contagious and affects everyone, destroying lives and families. Addiction should not be approached carelessly; it needs to be combated and eliminated. To assist people in getting rid of this condition, we at First Steps Recovery built our clinic for addiction recovery. We dedicate our facilities to preserving healthy lives because we recognize substance abuse’s severity. We kindly ask that you give our assistance some thought if you are battling an alcohol or drug addiction. We continually put your needs first to create a secure environment for healing and recovery. We want you to be free of the harm caused by addiction. Call First Steps Recovery at (844) 489-0836 for more details about our programs.
