self-medicates
Doctors oneself informally
Self-medicates means to treat one's own ailments without professional guidance, typically with over-the-counter remedies, alcohol, or recreational drugs.
The term often implies using substances to cope with emotional or psychological pain: He self-medicates his anxiety with bourbon.
It can be neutral—She self-medicates minor headaches with ibuprofen—but frequently suggests unhealthy coping mechanisms.
Drugs reducing physical discomfort
- alcoholIntoxicating hydroxyl compound
- cannabisPsychoactive hemp plant
- opioidsReceptor-binding pain relievers
- sedativesDrugs that calm
stimulants · benzodiazepines · over-the-counter · supplements · kratom · cough syrup · antihistamines · sleeping pills
Managing under strain
- numbingCausing loss of sensation
- escapismHabitual mental retreat
- avoidanceDeliberate keeping away
- traumaLasting psychological wound
anxiety · depression · undiagnosed · untreated · emotional pain · stress relief · mood regulation · withdrawal
Lacking protective coverage
- inaccessibleCannot be reached
- affordabilityState of being purchasable
- stigmaMark of dishonor
- distrustAbsence of confidence
pharmacist · dosage · side effects · interactions · contraindications · tolerance · overdose · harm reduction
painkillers
Drugs reducing physical discomfort
- alcoholIntoxicating hydroxyl compound
- cannabisPsychoactive hemp plant
- opioidsReceptor-binding pain relievers
sedatives · stimulants · benzodiazepines · over-the-counter · supplements · kratom · cough syrup · antihistamines · sleeping pills · caffeine
coping
Managing under strain
trauma · anxiety · depression · undiagnosed · untreated · emotional pain · stress relief · mood regulation · withdrawal · denial
uninsured
Lacking protective coverage
- inaccessibleCannot be reached
- affordabilityState of being purchasable
- stigmaMark of dishonor
distrust · pharmacist · dosage · side effects · interactions · contraindications · tolerance · overdose · harm reduction
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