Drug Abuse: Understanding Its Risks and Consequences

Drug abuse has become a global concern and a menace, particularly in children entering adolescence and youth. An annual report dated between 2018-19 by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, India, states that males aged between 15 and 35 are the ones mainly affected. 20% of women, some of whom are under the age of 18, are primarily addicted to injectable substances like heroin. Another study highlights the prevalence of drug usage among women, revealing that 66% of them get their drugs through sex work.

Is there a difference between drug abuse and drug addiction?

Although it might sound similar, there is a subtle difference between drug abuse and drug addiction. Drug addiction is a disease and can have an impact on one’s behaviour and brain. The need to take drugs can take over an individual’s thoughts all day, making it hard to quit, even if they want to.

On the other hand, drug abuse is considered when you misuse legal or illegal substances in harmful doses. It often starts as a voluntary act. You do not have to become dependent, and you can stop. But, repeated drug abuse can lead to addiction and becomes increasingly difficult to stop even if you want to.

What are the most commonly abused drugs?

Prescription drugs like opioids (e.g., hydrocodone, morphine, etc.); sedatives and tranquillizers (e.g., benzodiazepines); or stimulants (e.g., amphetamines). These drugs are abused for euphoric effects, to combat anxiety, or to gain increased energy and focus.
Over-the-counter medications (OTC) like dextromethorphan. These OTC drugs are abused by taking them in high doses for hallucinogenic effects.
Illicit and synthetic drugs, such as marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, as well as synthetic cannabinoids and cathinones, can be abused for their psychoactive and hallucinogenic effects.
Inhalants, like pain thinners, whiteners, glue, etc., are abused for their ability to alter behaviour, especially one’s mood, perception, and consciousness.
Alcohol and tobacco products, including those containing nicotine, which can be highly addictive.

What are the usual causes that can lead to drug abuse?

Causes for drug abuse, particularly in children and youth, can be several, be it economic, mental, social, or religious.

Religious and cultural practices: The use of substances, especially like Bhang and Ganja, is common in festivals like Holi and Shivaratri, leading to social acceptance. Although these were moderated, it has weakened as time passed due to lifestyle changes and reduced influence of elders.
Communication gaps among parents and children: Communication gaps have resulted from changes in lifestyle, less family time, and a rise in technological addiction. Children may have negative effects from this, including feelings of neglect. This can lead to drug experimentation.
Peer pressure or influence: Friends who are drug addicts have the power to persuade others to use drugs for fun. Nevertheless, the pleasure may not last long, and frequent use can result in addiction.
Coping with depression or trauma: People who have experienced the loss of a loved one, are depressed, or suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder may become heavily dependent on stimulants and marijuana to help them cope with the stress or terrible memories of the event.
Interest in trying new drugs: Teens and young adults are in the process of learning new things, and they frequently turn to drugs as a means of experimenting out of curiosity. They are more likely to take drugs because of their pleasurable effects, which can become addictive.

How can one recognise the signs of drug abuse?

Common signs to recognise if an individual is resorting to drug abuse are:

Spotting any mood or personality changes, like the sudden shift to depression or being withdrawn, less motivated and secretive, silent, etc.
Major changes in behaviour, such as losing interest in studies or other important work, disappearing for long periods, acting hostile, locking doors, avoiding eye contact while talking, going out frequently, lack of coordination or poor balance, and high energy followed by prolonged periods of sleep, etc.
Poor hygiene, which can include unusual smells, such as the smell of smoke, bad breath, or a messy appearance.
Physical signs, like bloodshot eyes or pupils, unexpected weight loss, bruises or abrasions in the skin, slurred speech, marks on arms covered by long sleeves, and unusual tiredness.

Are there any treatments for drug abuse?

Yes, there are treatments for individuals with drug abuse. Treatments often involve a combination of different therapies, which include:

Pharmacological approach: The therapy involves the use of medications to discourage patients from drug abuse by reversing their pleasurable effects. For example, an opioid antagonist drug called Naltrexone is prescribed to help overcome patients with uncontrolled opioid use.
Counselling and support therapy: Several approaches, like cognitive behavioural therapy and contingency management, as well as support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and other support groups for individuals with drug abuse, can help them prevent relapse and give a sense of hope and resilience.
Substitution therapy: This approach involves the use of prescribing a less potent drug like Methadone in place of highly potent drugs like Heroin. This therapy could help the patient wean themselves without manifesting any severe withdrawal symptoms. Gradually, the patient is free from its effects and drugs.
Rehabilitation: Considered one of the most important treatments to prevent relapse, the therapy helps individuals with a history of drug abuse or addiction to help rebuild life and relationships. It also aims to prevent homelessness and address other social challenges they might face.

How can one prevent drug abuse?

Assessing your surroundings and making the right judgement is often important, as it can help in avoiding situations that encourage drug abuse.
Being aware and educated about its risks and its effects on addiction, resisting peer pressure, and seeking counselling early can also aid in preventing drug misuse.
You can also learn how to cope with your stress and other emotional challenges in a healthy manner and lead a well-balanced life to reduce stress.
Having strong support systems, such as close friends or family members, can provide encouragement and guidance, making it easier for you to stay on the right path.
You can also play a supportive role for others by recognising signs of drug abuse and offering help, which can create a positive impact on yourself and their lives.