In this blog, we’ll talk about substance use in midlife adults, including the challenges they encounter, how to recognize the signs, and ways to cope.
When you think of people who are susceptible to substance use disorders, the image of young adult men who drink heavily or dabble in drugs may come to mind. However, this is a common misconception.
Other demographics are much more vulnerable to substance use, particularly midlife adults. In fact, a study found that one-third of adults reported binge drinking in recent weeks.
Midlife Challenges and Substance Use
During midlife, individuals often encounter challenges that can trigger substance use as a coping mechanism. One significant challenge is midlife crisis, characterized by feelings of discontentment, identity questioning, and a sense of time running out. This existential angst can lead to attempts to self-medicate through alcohol or drugs.
Moreover, midlife is often associated with heightened stress stemming from career demands, financial responsibilities, and family obligations. These environmental triggers may predispose some individuals to substance use disorders, which they use as a temporary coping mechanism and escape from their overwhelming reality.
The onset of chronic health issues during midlife, such as chronic pain or illness, can also exacerbate feelings of distress and contribute to substance use as a means of managing physical and emotional discomfort. In fact, more than 10% of American adults experience daily pain.
Recognizing the Signs
Substance use among midlife adults can manifest in various signs that may differ from those seen in younger or older individuals.
Midlife adults may become more secretive about their substance use, hiding alcohol bottles or drug paraphernalia to avoid detection by family members or colleagues. They might start associating with new friends who are also using substances, distancing themselves from long-term friends or family members who disapprove of their behavior.
Substance use can exacerbate existing health conditions common in midlife, such as hypertension, diabetes, or liver disease. Therefore, unexplained declines in health or worsening of chronic conditions may be indicative of substance use.
Substance use can also lead to mood swings, irritability, or aggression, which may be particularly noticeable in midlife adults who previously had stable emotional states.
Midlife adults may experience a decline in work performance due to substance use, including increased absenteeism, reduced productivity, or errors on the job. Midlife adults may also struggle to maintain financial stability due to spending a significant portion of their income on substances or experiencing job loss or legal issues related to their substance use.
Accessing Help and Support
Midlife adults seeking help for substance use issues have various options for support and treatment, such as the following:
Primary Care Physician. Midlife adults can start by consulting their primary care physician, who can provide a confidential assessment and referrals to appropriate treatment resources.
Support Groups. Midlife adults can benefit from joining support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), or SMART Recovery, where they can connect with others facing similar struggles and receive encouragement and guidance.
Online Resources. There are numerous online resources and helplines available for individuals seeking information, support, and treatment options for substance use disorders. Websites like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) offer valuable resources and information.
Therapy and Counseling. Seeking therapy or counseling from a licensed mental health professional can provide midlife adults with personalized support, coping strategies, and tools to address underlying issues contributing to substance use.
Inpatient or Outpatient Treatment Programs. Depending on the severity of the substance use disorder, midlife adults may benefit from either residential inpatient rehab or outpatient treatment programs that offer medical supervision, therapy, and support in a structured environment.
Coping Strategies and Lifestyle Changes
Midlife adults can adopt several practical coping strategies and lifestyle changes to manage stressors and reduce reliance on substances:
Regular Exercise. Engaging in regular physical activity can reduce stress levels, boost mood, and improve overall well-being.
Healthy Eating Habits. Whether you are recovering from substance use or simply want to prevent its development, nutrition and nourishing the body and mind with a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can provide essential nutrients that support physical and mental health.
Stress Management Techniques. Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help alleviate stress and promote relaxation.
Seeking Support. Building a strong support network of family, friends, or support groups can provide emotional support and practical assistance in times of need.
Setting Boundaries. Learning to say no and setting boundaries can help reduce feelings of overwhelm and prevent over-commitment.
Developing Hobbies and Interests. Engaging in hobbies and activities that bring joy and fulfillment can serve as healthy outlets for stress and boredom.
By incorporating these coping strategies and lifestyle changes into their daily routines, midlife adults can effectively manage stressors and reduce reliance on substances, promoting overall health and well-being.
The Role of Family and Community
Support from family, friends, and the community plays a pivotal role in recognizing and addressing substance use among midlife adults. Loved ones are often the first to notice changes in behavior or mood, providing valuable insight into potential substance misuse.
By fostering open communication and offering non-judgmental support, family and friends create a safe space for you to seek help.
There are also community resources such as support groups, counseling services, and educational initiatives that offer assistance in navigating the complexities of substance use disorders. Together, this network of support can facilitate early intervention, access to treatment, and long-term recovery for midlife adults facing substance-related challenges.
The Bottom Line
Midlife can be a challenging period for many adults. Experiencing the dreaded midlife crisis as well as the pressures of family obligations, work stress, and health-related concerns can take a toll on individuals during this time.
Watching out for the signs of substance use can be helpful in knowing when it’s time to seek help, whether it’s through therapy or an inpatient program. Family and community are also vital sources of support without which recovery would be more difficult to achieve.
Freeing yourself from the grip of substance use and adult addiction can be difficult to do. At Freedom Recovery, we empower you to get the treatment you need and break free. Visit our website for more details about our services today.
