Drug abuse is also known as Substance Abuse or Drug Dependence or Drug Addiction.
Drug abuse is a state of periodic or chronic intoxication produced by the
repeated consumption of a drug (natural or synthetic). Its characteristics include:
- An overpowering desire or need (compulsion) to continue taking the drug and to obtain it by any means.
- A tendency to increase the dose.
- (i) A psychic(psychological) and (ii) generally a physical dependence on the effects of the drug.
- Detrimental effects on the individual and on society.
Drug Dependence, psychological and sometimes physical state characteristics.
by a compulsion to use a drug to experience psychological or physical effects. Drug
dependence takes several forms: tolerance, habituation, and addiction.
Drugs Commonly Abused
The drugs that are commonly abused, except for alcohol and tobacco, can be
grouped into six classes:
- Opioids. This class includes drugs derived from opium, such as morphine and heroin, and synthetic substitutes such as methadone.
- Sedative-Hypnotics. Used to relieve anxiety and induce sleep which includes barbiturates, benzodiazepines (Diazepam,Valium & Librium) and Tranquilizer.
- Stimulants. It includes cocaine and drugs of the amphetamine family.
- Hallucinogens. Used in the treatment of dying patients, the mentally ill, drug abusers, and alcoholics eg- Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD), Mescaline and Phencyclidine (PCP).
- Cannabis. The plant Cannabis sativa is the source of both Marijuana and Hashish.
- Inhalants. This class includes substances that are usually not considered drugs, such as glue, gasoline, and aerosols like nasal sprays.
Signs & Symptoms of Drug Abuse
Physical Signs
- Bloodshot eyes, pupils larger or smaller than usual.
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns. Sudden weight loss or weight gain.
- Deterioration of physical appearance, personal grooming habits.
- Unusual smells on breath, body, or clothing.
- Tremors, slurred speech, or impaired coordination.
Behavioral Signs
- Drop in attendance and performance at work.
- Unexplained need for money or financial problems. May borrow or steal to get it.
- Engaging in secretive or suspicious behaviors.
- Sudden change in friends, favorite hangouts, and hobbies.
Frequently getting into trouble (fights, accidents, illegal activities).
Psychological Signs
- Unexplained change in personality or attitude.
- Sudden mood swings, irritability, or angry outbursts.
- Periods of unusual hyperactivity, agitation, or giddiness.
- Lack of motivation; appears lethargic or “spaced out.
- Appears fearful, anxious, or paranoid, with no reason.
Causes of Drug Abuse
There are a number of biological,psychological, and social factors, called risk factors, that can increase a person’s likelihood of developing a drug abuse. Most drug abuse professionals recognize a genetic aspect to the risk of drug addiction.
Psychological associations with substance abuse or addiction include mood disorders like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder, as well as personality disorders like antisocial personality disorder. Social risk factors for drug abuse and addiction include male gender, being between 18 and 44 years of age
American heritage, unmarried marital status, and lower socioeconomic status.
According to statistics by state, people residing in the West tend to be at higher risk for chemical abuse or dependency. While men are more at risk for developing a chemical dependency like alcoholism, women seem to be more vulnerable to becoming addicted to alcohol at much lower amounts of alcohol consumption.