The Mental Side Effects of Steroids
Steroids are more commonly referred to as anabolic steroids or anabolic-androgenic steroids. Both are synthetic versions of the natural body producing steroid testosterone. The authentic version of testosterone is produced in the testes of men and the ovaries of women; testosterone is needed in the body for proper growth and development. However, not everyone grows correctly, so man-made versions of testosterone, such as anabolic steroids or anabolic-androgenic steroids, are available to treat hormone deficiencies. Even though steroids are medically beneficial, there is the risk of abuse.
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Significance
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Steroids can only legally be prescribed for medically necessary disorders, such as hormone deficiencies, impotence and delays in puberty. Steroids may also be prescribed to HIV and AIDS patients to regain lean muscle mass that may have been lost to their disease. When steroid use is medically necessary, physicians will monitor the patient and the use of the medication to watch for harmful side effects or possible addiction. Mental effects are more commonly seen when steroids are being used illegally.
Illegal Use
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If you are using steroids without medical necessity, you are breaking the law. Body-builders and athletes use steroids to enhance their performance and to improve appearance, but this is illegal. Breaking the law is not the only penalty for using steroids without a prescription; you can also suffer mental effects. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, steroid use can cause unwarranted jealousy, delusions, feelings of being invincible, aggression and manic-like symptoms that often lead to violence.
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Effects
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In 1996, The Medical Journal of Australia, described the mental effects of anabolic steroids in three different stages. The first stage, which was considered mild, and effects were seen very early on, were: changes to euphoria and mood (i.e., boost in self-esteem and confidence), irritability, agitation and feelings of being on edge. The second stage of mental effects would usually be seen after long-term use of steroids or when the dosage had been increased, but the effects were as follows: lack of judgment and loss of inhibition; mood swings and grandiose ideas. The final stage is considered the most severe and the mental effects were as follows: antisocial behavior, violent outburst, self-injury, domestic violence or child abuse.
Warning
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Steroids are commonly administered through an injection so if you share a needle with someone infected with HIV, AIDS, Hepatitis B or C, you are putting your life at risk.
Women Users
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Both, men and women, are putting their mental health at risk when using steroids. However, some women who use steroids will experience schizophrenic and psychotic episodes. In addition, women steroid users may feel insecure among women they perceive to look better, which can cause depression or an aggressive rage.
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of roonb
