Understanding Client Choices: Why People Choose a Certain SubstanceUnderstanding Client Choices: Why People Choose a Certain Substance
All Things Substance
So what’s behind the client’s choice of substances? Why does one person choose alcohol vs marijuana? Why does one person choose pills instead of cocaine? There are actually specific reasons why people choose one drug or another and it can really...
46:57•18 Jul 2022
Why Do People Choose Certain Substances? Betsy Byler Explains
“There are actually specific reasons why people choose one drug or another and it can really be helpful to understand the reason.”
Ever wondered why some people prefer alcohol while others lean towards marijuana or even harder drugs like cocaine? In this episode of 'All Things Substance', host Betsy Byler, a seasoned therapist and substance abuse counselor, breaks down the fascinating reasons behind these choices. She explores how different substances serve different needs—whether it's the focus-boosting effects of stimulants like methamphetamine or the calming impact of alcohol and marijuana.
Byler delves into the complex interplay between mental health issues like depression and anxiety and substance use, shedding light on how coping skills—or the lack thereof—play a crucial role. She also touches on hyperalgesia, a condition where people become extra sensitive to pain, and how this can influence substance choices. Plus, she offers practical advice on how therapists can use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills to help clients struggling with substance use.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the deeper motivations behind why people turn to certain substances.

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