Any type of substance abuse could lead to addiction. However, some substances are considered the most addictive drugs because they work quickly on the reward centers of the brain, and the body becomes quickly dependent. However, there is hope for young men in the grip of addiction. Treatment and sober living homes help build a foundation of recovery from addiction that can last a lifetime.
Top 5 Most Addictive Drugs
There are a number of drugs and other substances that are addictive. However, there are certain types of drugs that affect how the brain and body work faster than others, and they are considered to be more addictive. The top five most addictive drugs include:
#1. Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is hundreds of times more potent than other types of opioids, like morphine or heroin. It is highly addictive because you only need a small amount to trigger the “feel good” reward centers in the brain. Because it works quickly and is powerful, individuals can develop dependence and addiction after a single use. Fentanyl is not only highly addictive but is incredibly dangerous as it only takes a few granules to cause an overdose.
#2. Heroin
Heroin is a naturally-derived opioid that comes from the poppy plant. Just like fentanyl, heroin causes an increase in the release of the “feel-good” chemicals in the brain. As use continues, the brain begins to rely on heroin in order to achieve a feel-good state. When the effects of heroin start wearing off, you often begin to crave those feelings again and as soon as possible. Additionally, heroin causes a whole-body addiction which can contribute to withdrawals.
#3. Cocaine
Though not as widely used as other drugs, cocaine is still considered one of the most addictive drugs. It is produced from the coca plant and is often a white powdery substance that can be snorted, injected, or smoked. A variant of pure cocaine is crack cocaine which is often smoked or injected.
Cocaine use creates feelings of alertness, excitement, and euphoria. It is often used in cycles, where the individual will ingest cocaine in back-to-back sessions to maintain the high. This high is followed by an intense crash that can cause mental and physical exhaustion, depression, and cravings.
#4. Alcohol
Due to its prevalence and ease of access, alcohol is one of the most abused legal substances. While the legal drinking age is 21 in most places, most teenagers have already experimented with alcohol by their 21st birthday.
Alcohol boosts dopamine levels in the brain to create a pleasurable state, while simultaneously slowing motor skills and numbing the central nervous system creating a sedated and calming state. As a result, young men are more likely to binge drink to experience the effects faster. They also tend to engage in risky behaviors and make impulsive decisions as a result of lowered inhibitions experienced while drinking.
#5. Meth
Meth (methamphetamine) is another drug that is very powerful, making it one of the most addictive drugs. It is smoked, snorted, or injected. It creates a very intense euphoric response while also boosting energy levels, excitability, alertness, pleasurability, and focus. Since meth is so powerful the body quickly becomes dependent and, eventually, addicted. Withdrawing from meth can cause intense cravings, physical withdrawal, and psychological symptoms.
Why Do Young Men Use the Most Addictive Drugs?
Young men are more likely to engage in risk-taking behavior like using the most addictive drugs for several reasons. Peer pressure and reduced risk aversion increase the likelihood that a young man will experiment with drugs. As a result, young men with substance abuse disorders often have tried a wide range of substances. Furthermore, young men are more likely to mix substances to enhance the effects experienced while abusing substances.
Why You Need Treatment for Drug Addiction
It can be difficult to admit you have a substance abuse problem and are abusing some of the most addictive drugs. However, if you need to use drugs to function and get through the day, you need treatment. Another sign you need treatment is if all you can crave is wanting to experience the drug-induced euphoric state.
For many young men, trying to stop using drugs or alcohol on their own can lead to relapse. The physical and psychological withdrawals that can accompany quitting an addictive substance can be painful. This is why getting professional addiction treatment is the key to finding meaningful long-term sobriety. Additionally, getting into sober living after treatment will help strengthen your new sober skills and immerse you in a community of like-minded people.
Sober Living for Young Men in Redondo Beach, CA
Find hope and healing from addiction. Our sober living homes help you maintain your sobriety while continuing to work on your recovery in a caring, supportive, and judgment-free environment. We offer customizable program options, including no time limits on how long you can live at our facilities. Call or visit our admissions page today to learn more about our sober living homes for young men.
Last Updated on September 11, 2024
