How do drugs change mood over time?
- By Robert Mauer
- Reviewed by: Dr. Janaka Hanvey, PhD
Drugs can change mood by altering brain systems involved in reward, stress, and emotional regulation. Initially, substances may produce effects such as euphoria, relaxation, or increased energy, depending on the drug. Over time, these effects often become less predictable, and mood may become more unstable.
With repeated use, individuals may experience increased irritability, anxiety, low mood, or emotional blunting, particularly between episodes of use. This reflects both brain adaptation and the absence of the substance’s effects when not using.
As patterns develop, drug use may shift from enhancing mood to managing discomfort. This can reinforce continued use, as the substance is used not only to feel better but also to avoid feeling worse.
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Sources
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) — Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction
Government scientific overview of drug use, addiction, brain changes, tolerance, dependence, and recovery.
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) — Commonly Used Drugs Charts
Comprehensive federal reference covering major drug categories, effects, overdose risks, and health consequences.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) — Substance Use and Mental Health
Federal information about substance use, addiction, prevention, treatment, and behavioral health.
MedlinePlus — Drugs and Young People
Government medical resource discussing drug effects, misuse, addiction risks, and substance use education.
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) — Understanding Drug Use and Addiction DrugFacts
Clear explanation of why people use drugs, how addiction develops, and how substance use affects the brain and behavior.