Before we delve into the actual topic of this blog, let's see a small story. Brian, aged 22 grew up in a supportive family and was an excellent student. During his junior years he sustained a sports injury and started experimenting with painkillers. What started off as a means to manage pain made him spiral into the thorny path of addiction. His family noticed mood swings, withdrawal from activities and declining academic performance. He was found unconscious by a passer by and was rushed to the hospital where it was determined that he had overdosed.
UNDERSTANDING DRUG ABUSE
The use of certain chemicals in quantities higher than prescribed or for purposes they are meant to be used constitutes drug abuse. It can further escalate to addiction and physical and psychological dependance. On the contrary, drug use refers to a single episode use of a particular drug for medicinal or recreational purposes.
COMMONLY MISUSED DRUGS
Alcohol, although harmless in moderation, is often taken excessively leading to complications. Nicotine, frequently seen in cigarettes is another of the more common One of the top 10 drugs mostly abused by teens has been found to be Methamphetamine. More commonly referred to as Meth, it causes increased activity and a sense of euphoria. If taken for a long time, it also causes anxiety, stress and hallucinations. Cocaine or ‘crack’ gives the taker a high and is most often associated with Cardiovascular complications in drug users. Obtained from Cannabis sativa, Marijuana causes altered senses, euphoria and relaxation.
CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS FOR DRUG ABUSE
Some things that may increase chances of addiction include:
● Peer pressure - Many individuals start this as a means to fit into a social group
●Use as a stress management mechanism - People use it as a temporary escape from reality
● Family history - Studies reveal that a past history of family addiction can increase chances of addiction.
● Environmental factors - Exposure through media, household or community can normalize drug abuse and increase risk of abuse
● Curiosity - It is definitely well known that curiosity can kill the metaphorical cat. The allure to try new experiences can lead to addiction
●Mental health disorders - Depression, PTSD and anxiety can lead individuals to self medication.
SOCIAL GROUPS PRONE TO DRUG ABUSE
Adolescents frequently fall prey to this habit. It is caused due to many factors. Peer Pressure is something that is more often spoken about than not. Young adults usually have a strong desire to fit into their social group and if their peers are seen to be using drugs, they feel compelled to do it as well. Direct encouragement also complements this. Drug abuse in medical colleges in India has become an emerging concern.
Owing to elements such as academic pressure and related stress, burnout, easy access to pharmaceuticals and peer influence, there is a prevalence of this habit in medical colleges. It leads to decline in academic performance and health risk. Even more so, even a small misstep easily jeopardizes the student’s medical career as there are a lot of legal and ethical implications surrounding narcotic abuse. By providing robust mental health services, stress management strategies and establishing peer support networks as well as by strict regulation and monitoring, medical colleges can mitigate the factors leading to drug abuse among medicos. Other groups susceptible to substance abuse include victims of trauma, homeless individuals, people with mental health issues, military veterans (as a way to combat PTSD) and the LGBTQ+ community (to deal with stress because of the discrimination they face).
EFFECTS OF DRUG ABUSE
Physically, drug abuse leads to cardiovascular and respiratory disorders in the long run. Moreover, the person may also experience liver damage, neurological impairments, and a weakened immune system.
Mentally, abuse leads to addiction and later to dependance on the drug. Failure of intake causes withdrawal symptoms like sweating, tremors, nausea and vomiting. It also manifests as mood swings, behavioral changes and emotional instability.
Drug abuse also burdens the person socio economically. Job loss, strained relationships, financial issues and legal issues are also a part of the effect spectrum.
The ripple effect of drug abuse is seen as it surpasses the individual and poses problems to their family, the community and the society in the form of emotional strain, financial burden, increased crime rates, burden on social health services, workplace issues and academic decline.
INTERNATIONAL DAY AGAINST DRUG ABUSE AND ILLICIT TRAFFICKING
This day has been penned down by the United Nations with the purpose of spreading awareness about the ill effects of narcotic misuse. It is observed on June 26 every year, commemorating the dismantling of opium trade in China by Lin Xieu in the year 1839. The theme for 2024 is “Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Promote Prevention.”
STRATEGIES FOR PREVENTION
This is a multifaceted approach involving:
●Raising awareness: Drug education programs should be incorporated into school curriculum to inform the students of the issues related to drug abuse. Seminars and workshops should also be arranged for this purpose. Public awareness can also be spread through media and public service announcements. In fact, this blog is one such example. Walkathons, fairs and the like can be organized in partnership with legal and healthcare agencies to create a unified approach. Ambassadors and Influencers can speak out against drug abuse.
● Legal Policies: Numerous policies and regulations have been put in place to address this evil. The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 is the primary such legislation in India. It prohibits the production, processing, sale, purchase, possession, use and transport of drugs except for medical purposes. It prescribes stringent punishment for any offences. India is also signatory to the International drug control conventions and treaties.
TREATMENT AND REHABILITATION
In continuation with Brian’s story, The near fatal incident was a turning point for him. He entered a rehabilitation program. It was a long and arduous journey. He faced many relapses and moments of despair. However, he stood tall against it and with the support of his family and peers, he regained control of his life.
Here, Brian is just one name. There are a few millions of drug users that go through this situation. His story shows both the devastating impact and the redemptive path.
Drug rehabilitation is the therapeutic treatment for dependance on psychoactive substances. Its key components include:
●Assessment - The individuals first go through an assessment to determine the extent of their substance abuse and its effects. This helps create a personalized plan.
● Detoxification - It helps manage withdrawal symptoms.
●Therapeutic Intervention - Behavioral, family and group therapy and counseling help to build a supportive environment to develop coping strategies
● Medication may be used to manage cravings and to reduce withdrawal symptoms.
● Training in communication, problem solving, stress management and the like is provided.
● Aftercare support - It is given so as to avoid relapses and to promote the individuals’ re-integration into the society.
Many drug rehab centers have been established so as to provide comprehensive and holistic care that helps individuals to overcome substance abuse.
ACCESSIBILITY OF REHAB CENTERS
Accessibility to drug rehabilitation centers varies significantly. However, notable improvements have been made to enhance this. The GoI has established Integrated Rehabilitation Centers for Addicts (IRCA) across the country in order to provide affordable free services. Numerous NGOs also play a crucial role in increasing accessibility of the same. Telemedicine and mobile health units also reach the unserved rural areas. These encourage residents to undergo consultations and follow ups without having to travel excessively. These efforts contribute to a more supportive infrastructure for addressing drug addiction in India. They give us hope that no matter the stage of addiction, there will be a support system to help mitigate the habit of drug abuse.
CONCLUSION
Addiction has no barriers. It can strike any person at any time. However, hope lies in the fact that through medicine based interventions, compassionate support systems and the resilient nature of human spirit, individuals can get back on their feet. By addressing addiction as a chronic disease instead of as a moral failing, we can remove the stigma surrounding it to extend a helping hand, lend an ear and walk alongside them through the path to recovery. For every life that was lost to addiction, there are countless more waiting to be saved.
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