Drug Abuse

Drug abuse is when drug taking reaches an uncontrollable level, at which point the user is so strongly addicted, they are unable to stop taking drugs. This may be a result of physical dependency, psychological dependency, or a combination of both. The level of dependency varies from person to person.

The vast majority of drug addicts do not fit the stereotype of ‘a junkie shooting up’, and although many people believe that addicts are morally weak, in fact, addiction is a chronic, relapsing illness.

The route to addiction normally begins with a conscious decision to experiment with drugs. But often, drug users know little about the implications of taking drugs. They are unaware of the potential effects, don’t know why these effects occur, and don’t realise what problems taking the drugs might cause. 

What are the symptoms of drug dependency?

 With physical dependency, the body has become so accustomed to the drug that when someone stops taking it, they experience withdrawal symptoms. Psychological dependency is when the mind relies on the effects of the drug, and if the person stops taking it, they experience a strong craving for it. 

What causes drug addiction?

 Scientific research has found that drugs interfere with normal brain functions and have long-term effects on brain metabolism and activity. Over time, the changes that occur in the brain turn the drug use into drug addiction, which cannot be overcome without treatment. This can affect anyone and may involve both legal and illegal drugs. So, although a drug may not be illegal, it can still bring about drug addiction. 

Why do people abuse drugs?

 There are many reasons, and they vary from person to person. They include:
• peer pressure
• an urge to experiment
• enjoyment of the effects
• easy access to socially acceptable drugs
• the view that drugs provide a temporary escape from problems
• an underlying mental health issue, such as depression
• a genetically inherited tendency to addiction

What are the effects of drug addiction?

Drugs can be categorised according to the effect they produce – as stimulants, depressants or hallucinogens.
Stimulants
Examples include cocaine and crack, ecstasy, alkyl nitrites, amphetamines, anabolic steroids and nicotine. These are drugs that increase the activity of the central nervous system and the brain. Some give the user feelings of high confidence, energy and alertness.
Depressants
Examples include solvents, alcohol, barbiturates, heroin and tranquillisers. These are drugs that reduce the activity of the central nervous system and the brain. They commonly cause impaired coordination, judgement and balance.
Hallucinogens
Examples include cannabis, LSD, magic mushrooms and ketamine. These drugs alter the user’s perception of reality, changing the way they experience the world through their senses. Users often see and hear things that are not real, and the drugs may trigger psychotic reactions, including paranoia.

What are the symptoms of withdrawal from drugs?

Common withdrawal symptoms include:
• headaches
• sweating
• vomiting
• tremors
• insomnia
What are the treatments for drug addiction?
If your drug addiction has advanced beyond the stage at which discussing it with friends or family can help, you should approach your GP. They will be able to refer you to a specialist professional counsellor or a local rehabilitation centre where you can receive supervised treatment.