Substance abuse not only destroys one’s future but also causes direct damage to the health system. Although the use certain substances like cocaine has declined, heroin abuse is on the rise. According to a national survey, around 13 million people in the US use illicit drugs. The easy accessibility to substances, both legal and illegal is also one of the factors that resulted in the growth of substance abusing population. Some facts about substance abuse and a list of the commonly abused chemical substances can be found below:
Alcohol
Although alcohol is a legal substance, excessive drinking and dependence can cause physiological and psychological damage to your body. On the positive side, moderate use of alcohol can make you relaxed and livelier. It is also an integral part of socialization in most societies. On the downside, excessive alcohol use can lead to a number of chronic diseases such as liver cirrhosis, liver degeneration, infection of stomach and esophagus, premature dementia, cancer of larynx and throat, and heart problems.
Marijuana or Cannabis
Marijuana or cannabis is derived from a plant and is usually taken by smoking. When the drug is inhaled, about 20 -25 percent of the key ingredient (THC) is absorbed by the body. Studies about substance abuse revealed that the psychological effects of the cannabis abuse occur within 2-10 minutes of inhalation. The effect of the drug can vary a lot from person to person depending on the way the drug is used, the physical and mental condition at the time of use, and the quantity of drug taken. The initial euphoric feeling will be followed by a calm and relaxed mood. Anxiety and confusion will also be experienced.
Heroine
Heroine is an opiate which causes severe withdrawal symptoms lasting for 7-10 days. Heroine abuses usually inject the drug which can lead to inflammation and infections at the site. It can be lethal if you used in excessive doses or in combination with other narcotics. The use of heroine can slow down the heart beat and respiration, and lower the body temperature. Narrowing of pupils, dizziness, nausea, headache, and itchiness are common in heroine users. Most abusers use the drug to get relief from grief, hunger, fear, and pain.
About Substance Abuse: Cocaine
Withdrawal from cocaine addiction is easier when compared to other drugs. Moderate use of cocaine creates confidence, improves thinking, and generates feelings of happiness. Fatigue disappears and the user gets a lot of energy to do multiple tasks. The effects of cocaine last for about 20-30 minutes. When the substance loses its effects, feelings of exhaustion may occur making the addict repeat the use of drug.
Prescription Drugs
The commonly abused prescription drugs include antidepressants, tranquilizers, benzodiazepines, and sedatives. Benzodiazepines, used in the treatment of sleeplessness, muscle stiffness, panic disorders, and short term memory may be abused if used for a long period of time. People with benzodiazepines addiction shows certain characteristics such as therapeutic use of drug for months or years, tolerance, difficulty in stopping drug use, consulting doctor to obtain repeat prescriptions and development of craving symptoms between doses. Certain antidepressants like TCA can generate suicidal feelings if taken in excessive doses. Moreover, the medications should not be stopped suddenly as the patient may be ata high risk of developing withdrawal symptoms.
Experts who conduct studies about substance abuse and its ill effects suggest that proper knowledge about the types and symptoms of addiction can assist with early recognition of addiction in an individual.
