The first step in addiction often starts with experimentation. This may be due to curiosity, peer pressure, or other factors. For some people, addiction occurs when they start taking a substance to cope with difficult life circumstances. Sometimes, gateway drugs are the first introduction someone has to substance abuse. Addiction can happen quickly or develop slowly over time. It depends on individual factors and the type of substance being used. People who suffer from addiction often have trouble stopping on their own. They may want to stop but find it difficult or impossible to do so. Answering the question, “What are gateway drugs?” can help you identify when addiction starts.
If you or a loved one is addicted to drugs, Northpoint Recovery is here to help. We offer a variety of addiction treatment services, including detox, inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, and aftercare. Our goal is to help you achieve lasting sobriety. Contact us today by calling 888.296.8976 to learn more about our drug addiction treatment programs and find gateway drug information.
What Are Gateway Drugs?
Gateway drugs are substances that people use before moving on to harder drugs. They tend to be less addictive and more socially acceptable than other drugs, making them a starting point for substance abuse.
People who use gateway drugs are more likely to develop an addiction to harder drugs later. This is because gateway drugs can change the way the brain works. They can make it harder to resist the urge to use other drugs. Gateway drugs can also lead to problems in school, work, and relationships.
Specific Types of Gateway Drugs
There are many different gateway drugs, but some of the most common ones include:
- Alcohol – Alcohol is a legal substance that is widely available. It’s also one of the most commonly abused substances. People who abuse alcohol are more likely to develop an addiction to other substances later on.
- Marijuana – Marijuana is the most commonly used illegal drug. It’s often considered a gateway drug because it can lead to the use of other, more dangerous drugs.
- Tobacco – Tobacco is another legal substance that’s widely available. People who use tobacco are more likely to develop an addiction to other substances later on.
- Prescription medication – Prescription medications are gateway drugs that are often abused. People who abuse prescription drugs are more likely to develop an addiction to other substances later on.
- Inhalants – Inhalants are substances that people sniff or inhale. They can be found in household products, such as cleaning supplies, aerosol cans, and markers. Inhalants are dangerous because they can lead to brain damage.
The Link Between Gateway Drugs and Addiction
Gateway drugs are often the first introduction someone has to substance abuse. They can be a starting point for addiction. People who use gateway drugs are more likely to develop an addiction to harder drugs later on. This is because gateway drugs can change the way the brain works. They can make it harder to resist the urge to use other drugs.
Some common signs of addiction include:
- Changes in appearance
- Changes in behavior
- Lying or stealing
- Missing school or work
- Neglecting responsibilities at home
Breaking the addiction cycle can be difficult, but it’s possible with help.
Drug Addiction Help at Northpoint Recovery
If you or a loved one is addicted to drugs, Northpoint Recovery is here to help. We offer a variety of evidence-based addiction treatment services, including detox, inpatient treatment, and aftercare planning. Our goal is to help you achieve lasting sobriety. Don’t delay a happier, healthier future. Contact us today by calling 888.296.8976 to learn more about our drug addiction treatment programs.