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Anabolic Steroids
Symptoms of Steroid Addiction
The use and abuse of anabolic steroids can lead to addiction. This is demonstrated by continued use despite health risks and negative consequences, such as relationship problems, loss of control, and secretiveness. Cessation of anabolic steroid use is associated with withdrawal symptoms, including severe depression. In addition to anabolic steroids, other performance- and appearance-altering drugs (PAAs) include human growth hormone (HGH), EPO, clenbuterol, and amphetamines. Recent studies have also linked anabolic steroid abuse to an increased risk of opioid addiction in men. As with cocaine addiction, sexual compulsivity, compulsive gambling, or other addictive behaviors, anabolic steroid abuse is serious and can lead to catastrophic consequences if left untreated.
Consequences of Steroid Addiction
Anabolic steroid abuse can result in permanent damage to the heart, liver, and kidneys. In males, steroid abuse can decrease sperm production, shrink the testicles, cause impotence, and produce irreversible breast enlargement (gynecomastia). Females can develop more masculine characteristics such as deepening of the voice and excessive body hair. In adolescents, abuse of anabolic steroids can stunt bone growth, reducing individuals' maximum height potential. Other side effects include acne, cysts, and oily hair and skin. Additionally, individuals who inject anabolic steroids with nonsterile needles risk developing HIV and other blood-borne infections. Secondary effects of using steroids may be aggression, irritability, rage, mania, depression, family issues, and even suicide.
Steroid Abuse Treatment
Exclusive steroid abuse treatment focuses on the individual and treats the whole person for underlying issues that have prompted the abuse of the substance. Whether steroids are used to increase performance, enhance physical appearance, or as a way of participating in high-risk behaviors, Sierra Tucson addresses the unique circumstances that led the individual to use steroids and then develops a plan for ongoing abstinence.
Although there is no acute detox phase when treating this addiction, medical staff may use specific tests to help identify and monitor substance levels in the blood.
Treatment may utilize Cognitive-Emotional-Behavioral Therapy (CEBT); Therapeutic and Recreational Activities; grief, loss and anger therapy; Twelve-Step work, nutrition and fitness consultations, healthy exercise; spirituality; psychopharmacology; Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR); family therapy; relapse prevention; and more.
Our individualized, integrated programs at Sierra Tucson are highly effective for treating steroid abuse and any coexisting addictive or mental/behavioral disorders. Treatment will help patients acquire a healthy body image, positive fitness strategies for optimum physical performance, and a balanced approach to life. With new, effective communication skills, individuals can build healthy relationships and enjoy a deeper connection with others.
If you or a loved one are having a difficult time with alcohol, drugs, or behavior disorders, please give us a call at 877.235.6131. Our treatment specialists are available to discuss your concerns and answer your questions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Treatment Center: Sierra Tucson