Diet pill abuse is occurring at an increasing and alarming rate. While the media may have convinced many people that these new pills are Instagram-worthy, science says otherwise. Weight loss pills work in a few ways. Typically they either increase metabolism, suppress appetite, or prevent the body from absorbing fat. While this sounds great to many consumers, these may be the only advertised side effects of weight loss pills. In reality, diet pills can be very addictive and can have adverse effects on the body. They also increase the risk of eating disorder behaviors. By age 19, estimates show that up to 20 percent of girls have taken over-the-counter weight loss pills for weight management. If you are addicted to diet pills, recovery is possible. There are many resources available to help you start your recovery journey.
Side Effects of Weight Loss Pills Abuse and Addiction
Some of the common side effects of over the counter weight loss pill abuse include the following:
- Insomnia
- Dizziness
- Hallucinations
- Chest pain
- Rash and itching
- Swelling of legs and ankles
- Nausea and vomiting
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Dark urine
Co-Occurring Disorders
When abusing diet pills, it is not uncommon to also be suffering from other mental health-related issues. Some of those may include the following:
- Anxiety and depression
- Low self-esteem
- Eating disorders
- Body dysmorphic disorder
- Bipolar disorder
- Mood disorders
- Substance use disorders
If you are battling an addiction, seek help. A residential treatment center may be beneficial to your recovery.
Addiction Treatment for Diet Pills
When treating addiction to diet pills, the first step is to find the root of the issue. Inpatient rehab or intensive outpatient programs are some of the best resources for helping with these issues. Through these programs, you can focus on your mental health, treat the addiction, find coping skills, and learn how to prevent relapse. Other options include cognitive behavioral therapy, 12-step programs, art therapy, and support groups. If you or a loved one is abusing diet pills, contact a treatment provider and see what the best course of action is for you. Sober living is possible.
