Drug abuse should be considered a serious public health problem that affects almost every community and family in some way. Each year millions of serious illnesses or injuries can be witnessed due to drug abuse among youngsters.
A chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite adverse consequences can be defined as an addiction. It is considered a human brain disorder, because it causes many functional changes to brain circuits which function in reward, stress, and self-control, and those changes may last a long time after a person has stopped the consumption of drugs.
Sources of Drugs
The majority of the drugs are obtained from plants, which are none other than chemicals. Some of the chemicals used for drugs are opioids, coca alkaloids, cannabinoids, etc. which have a base from plants. Barbiturates, amphetamines, benzodiazepines, etc. are some of the medical formulations which are also misused for drug purposes.
Effect of Drugs on Human Body
Drugs certainly affect the central nervous system of the human body. These chemicals when reacted to the body can cause risk to the whole body. Drugs often change the sensation of the body. The chemicals when reacted to the body begin to send wrong signals and messages to various parts of the body, thereby causing hallucinations which lead to confusion such as visualizing and hearing things that are unreal.
Common Drugs
The following are some of the abused drugs that most people are commonly addicted to,
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Heroin.
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Alcohol.
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Cocaine.
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Nicotine.
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Marijuana.
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Club drugs.
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Anabolic steroids, etc.
Addiction
Drugs and alcohol are addictive substances. Once a person becomes addicted to these abuses, it is not easy to get rid of oneself. Their addiction and dependence could produce severe outcomes that may lead to a long term problem and adolescents are more prone to getting into these habits.
Alcohol and drug abuse can be called a very common problem that our society is facing today. If left untreated, the addiction may lead to serious issues in the long run.
Alcohol and Drug Abuse: Prevention and Control
It is very true that a young and adolescent mind could be molded in any direction depending on the kind of exposure they get. Unknowingly, they might befriend abusers and get into the habit of drinking, smoking or taking drugs. At this point of time, it is the responsibility of the parents as well as the teachers to handle the issue sensitively and guide them through the right direction without scolding or punishing them as these issues are very sensitive.
Measures to Prevent Alcohol and Drug Abuse
The following are some of the measures that need to be taken to prevent and control alcohol and drug abuse.
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As per Indian society, the young and adolescents are often pushed beyond their limits to shine in every field. Parents always wanted their children to perform exceptionally well in their studies, sports, creativity, and every other activity. Under excess burden, the child often gets diverted to consume alcohol and drugs as a resort.
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Persistent counseling should be given to educating children on dealing with failures, pressures, stress, and disappointments. Guiding them towards productive activities such as music, painting, yoga, sports or one of their hobbies can also help them to get rid of this habit.
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Children usually follow habits from their close ones or the person who admires them. Hence, the attitude of close ones such as the parents and older siblings towards alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs also plays a major role in the children’s choice.
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When the child gets depressed and on the verge of any kind of abuse, they must look for help from parents or any trustable person who may guide them in the correct path, to help them overcome their anxiety and guilt.
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Parents must stay connected with the child every time by keeping a track of the child’s behavior and attitude at all possible times. It is recommended to spend more time with family to help them stay close, connected, and honest with their parents.
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When children are caught having fallen prey to alcohol and drug abuse, their friends and well-wishers must bring notice to their parents or teachers as soon as possible, so that they can take remedial measures for it.
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Despite all the prevention measures, if the child gets into the abuse unfortunately seeking professional aid is recommended. To get rid of this problem, one must consider rehabilitation centers, de-addiction programs, and qualified psychiatrists as they are well trained to help people overcome addiction.
However, despite all the preventive measures, if the child still does get into the abuse, it is advised to seek professional aid. There are a number of rehabilitation centers, de-addiction programs and qualified psychiatrists who would help to get rid of the problem.
Composition of Drugs Causing Abuse
Abused drugs include the use of the following –
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Heroin
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Alcohol
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Cocaine
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Nicotine
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Marijuana
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Club drugs
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Anabolic steroids