Essay on Drug Abuse (970 words)

Outlines

• INTRODUCTION
• TYPES OF DRUGS COMMONLY ABUSED
• PHYSICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF DRUG ADDICTION
• SYMPTOMS AND SIGNS
• TREATMENT
• CONCLUSION

INTRODUCTION

Drug abuse, also called substance abuse or chemical abuse, is a disorder that is characterized by a destructive pattern of using substances that lead to significant problems or distress. Teens are increasingly engaging in prescription drug abuse, leading to significant problems in their social and academic lives. Drug addiction can cause painful and uncontrollable convulsions, vomiting, depression, and other maladies if the drug is suddenly stopped. Overcoming drug dependence is crucial for individuals to change, continue, or develop their lives.

TYPES OF DRUGS COMMONLY ABUSED

Any substance whose ingestion can result in a high feeling can be abused. The following are many drugs and types of drugs that are commonly abused or result in dependence:

• Alcohol: Though legal, it can be dangerous if taken during pregnancy.
• Amphetamines: Overdose of any of these substances can result in seizure and death.
• Anabolic Steroids: Abused by bodybuilders and athletes, leading to terrible psychological and physical effects.
• Caffeine: Consumed by many, excessive consumption can lead to palpitations, insomnia, tremors, and anxiety.
• Cocaine: Stimulates the nervous system and can be smoked or injected.
• Nicotine: Found in cigarettes, it is highly addictive.
• Phencyclidine: Can cause the user to feel extremely powerful and aggressive.

PHYSICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF DRUG ADDICTION

Like many other mental-health problems, drug abuse and addiction have no single cause. However, there are a number of biological, psychological, and social risk factors that can increase a person's likelihood of developing a chemical-abuse or dependency disorder. Substance abuse within families may have a genetic aspect. Drug use is related to unsafe sexual behavior, putting adolescents at risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. Drug abuse can lead to difficulties at home and in society, as well as psychological and personality disorders.

SYMPTOMS AND SIGNS

In order to be diagnosed with drug abuse, an individual must exhibit a destructive pattern of drug use that leads to significant problems or stress but not enough to qualify as being addicted to a drug. Some signs and symptoms include:

• Repeated drug use that results in a lack of meeting important obligations at work, school, or home.
• Drug use in dangerous situations.
• Repeated legal problems as a result of drug use.
• Continued drug use affecting social or individual relationships.
• Tolerance and withdrawal symptoms.
• Significant time spent getting, using, or recovering from the effects of the substance.
• Continuing to use the substance despite awareness of ongoing or recurring physical or psychological problems worsened by drug use.

TREATMENT

The primary goals of drug-abuse or addiction treatment are abstinence, relapse prevention, and rehabilitation. Detoxification is performed in a hospital or inpatient setting, where medication is used to lessen withdrawal symptoms. Psychological addiction may be managed in an outpatient treatment program. Patients can benefit from living in a sober living community where counselors provide continued sobriety support and structure on a daily basis.

CONCLUSION

Drug addiction substantially reduces sober time available to a person and leads to the destruction of families, stunted personalities, intense emotions, and reduced fertility. To combat drug abuse, concrete steps must be taken by the government to stop smuggling and illegal drug entrance. Drug dealers must be ostracized, and awareness campaigns must be initiated to educate people about the dangers of drugs and curb drug trafficking.