Most people who misuse drugs or alcohol only meet the criteria for a single type of substance use disorder (SUD). However, this is not always the case. A substantial minority of those affected by SUDs actually have two or more diagnosable conditions. This state is the product of polysubstance abuse, i.e., multiple forms of substance abuse or misuse. If you’re affected by multiple issues, you will typically find it harder to regain your sobriety. But with help from a customized recovery plan, you can still fulfill your goal of lasting abstinence. 
Do you or your loved one need help for polysubstance misuse? You’ll find it at Promises Right Step. Our staff of in-house experts can help you recover from any combination of drug or alcohol problems. Use our customized treatment plans to support all aspects of your quest for long-term sobriety. Call 17135283709 or reach out to us online for more information.
Polysubstance Use and Misuse in the U.S.
Millions of people across America regularly or occasionally use more than one addictive substance. The list of the most widely used of these substances includes:
- Alcohol
- Nicotine/tobacco
- Marijuana
- Opioid painkillers
- Benzodiazepine sedatives
Even when nicotine is excluded, more than 16% of all Americans over the age of 11 have a diagnosable SUD. In other words, they’re affected by addiction, debilitating substance abuse, or mingled effects of both. Over seven million Americans have both a drug-related SUD and an alcohol-related SUD. In addition, significant numbers of people are affected by two or more kinds of drug-related disorders.
The term polysubstance use disorder was once used to officially describe the overlap of multiple SUDs. This term has now been abandoned. But the fact remains that many people across the country struggle with more than one kind of serious substance problem.
Why Is the Combination of Multiple Addictive Substances Dangerous?
Essentially all doctors, addiction specialists, and public health experts highlight the dangers of polysubstance misuse. Why? By combining addictive substances, you expose yourself to a range of major health repercussions. The specific dangers involved depend on the kinds of substances you take at the same time. For example, if you combine two drugs that stimulate your central nervous system, you can:
- Magnify the side effects of those drugs
- Make your system work much harder than it otherwise would
- Overwhelm your system and trigger an overdose
Different issues can arise if you combine a substance that speeds up your system with one that slows it down. For example, you may find it harder to spot the typical effects of those substances. As a result, you may end up taking more of them and thereby increasing your overdose and/or SUD risks.
Getting Help in Polysubstance Rehab
Recovery from overlapping SUDs often requires participation in substance detox. The detox process is essential to the transition from addiction to initial sobriety. Once you’ve attained this beginning sober state, you can enroll in a treatment program that helps you keep it active.
The typical treatment plan is based on participation in psychotherapy. Your particular plan may require the further use of addiction medication. Various forms of holistic, or whole-person, secondary care can also support your rehab success.
Seek Help Today From Promises Right Step’s Polysubstance Abuse Program
Polysubstance abuse is not uncommon in the U.S. This pattern of substance intake not only increases your SUD risks. It also increases the odds that you will experience serious side effects or an overdose.
At Promises Right Step, we’re dedicated to helping you recover from the effects of combined substance use. Whether you require inpatient or outpatient help, you’ll find it at one of our top-tier facilities. Just call us today at 17135283709 or contact us through our online form.