Emotions and Substance Use

Emotions can influence substance use, and substance use can change how emotions feel and are expressed. Understanding that relationship can make room for different responses, without assuming that everyone uses for the same reason or that a feeling excuses harmful behaviour.

People may use a substance to feel pleasure, join in, soften distress or change how they experience a situation. These motives can overlap. Feeling sad, angry or excited does not by itself explain why someone uses, and many people experience those feelings without using.

When using brings relief, that consequence can make the same response more likely another time. Relief can be real in the moment while the wider pattern creates difficulties. This is a form of learning, not evidence of weak character or a fixed emotional cycle.

Changing substance use can also change emotional experience. Feelings do not follow a guaranteed recovery timetable, and distress should not automatically be dismissed as withdrawal or treated as proof that healing is happening. Recovery can include treatment, reduced harm, greater stability and a wider range of choices, as well as abstinence.

If you or someone else is in immediate danger from violence, or you think you may act on thoughts of seriously harming yourself or another person, seek urgent emergency help. Threats, intimidation and coercive control deserve support even when there is no immediate emergency. You do not have to wait for substance use to change before seeking help for abuse.

Sudden confusion needs immediate medical help.

Suspected poisoning or overdose also needs urgent help if someone cannot be woken, is breathing abnormally, has a seizure or is rapidly deteriorating. Do not wait to identify the substance.

Seizures, severe confusion, hallucinations or other signs of severe alcohol withdrawal require urgent medical attention.

Someone who may be physically dependent on alcohol should seek medical advice before abruptly stopping or sharply reducing drinking.

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