Anabolic steroids, also known as performance-enhancing drugs, work by increasing the production of proteins. The drug stimulates muscle cells, bone, and other tissues. People typically abuse anabolic steroids to enhance their body’s performance and appearance. Anabolic steroids are very addictive and can have intense effects on the mind and body. If you are abusing steroids, seek help for addiction recovery. There are countless addiction resource centers available to help you begin your journey toward healing.
Anabolic Steroid Addiction Side Effects
Possible side effects of anabolic steroids for men:
- Shrunken testicles
- Decreased sperm count
- Erectile dysfunction
- Baldness
- Breast development
Possible side effects of anabolic steroids for women:
- Masculinization
- Decreased body fat
- Decreased breast size
- Swelling of clitoris
- Changes in voice
- Development of facial and body hair
Possible side effects of steroid addiction for either gender:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Risk of blood clots
- Liver cancer or failure
- Oily hair
- Acne
- Manic behavior
- Psychosis
- Hallucinations
- Aggression
- Risk of tendon rupture
- Change in bone structure
Steroid Withdrawal
When a user stops taking steroids, they may experience withdrawal symptoms. Someone who is suffering from steroids abuse and addiction may face some of the following withdrawal symptoms:
- Mood swings
- Fatigue
- Restlessness
- Change in appetite
- Insomnia
- Change in sex drive
- Drug cravings for anabolic steroids
- Depression, anxiety, or other mental illness
- Suicidal behaviors
Anabolic abuse withdrawal symptoms can be far-ranging and challenging to deal with by yourself. If you or a loved one are struggling with substance abuse and addiction, reach out to a trusted health care professional or a treatment center for help. A residential treatment facility may be beneficial to get you on your way to addiction recovery. Substance abuse recovery may be challenging, but it is possible.
Treatment Programs for Steroid Addiction
There are many treatment strategies when it comes to treating Anabolic Steroid abuse. Some of the most common treatment programs include inpatient rehab, intensive outpatient rehab, cognitive behavioral therapy, and support groups. A severe addiction to steroids may benefit from inpatient rehab. At these centers, the medical staff focuses solely on helping you learn coping mechanisms and relapse prevention. If you or a loved one is addicted to Anabolic Steroids, consult with a behavioral health professional and see what the best course of action is for you.
