Key Strategies to Prevent Alcohol and Drug Abuse
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,
Heroin.
Alcohol.
Cocaine.
Nicotine.
Marijuana.
Club drugs.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 -
Heroin
Alcohol
Cocaine
Nicotine
Marijuana
Club drugs
Anabolic steroids
FAQs on Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Control in Biology
1. What is meant by drug abuse, and how does it affect the body?
Drug abuse refers to the repeated and excessive use of certain chemicals for a purpose other than medicinal reasons, which harms the individual physically, mentally, or socially. These substances primarily affect the central nervous system, altering a person's mood, perception, and behaviour. This can lead to poor judgment, health complications, and a compulsive desire to continue using the drug despite negative consequences.
2. What are some common examples of drugs and alcohols that are frequently abused?
A wide range of substances are commonly abused. These are often grouped by their origin or effect on the body. Key examples include:
- Opioids: Such as heroin and morphine, which act as depressants.
- Cannabinoids: Like marijuana and hashish, which are derived from the cannabis plant.
- Coca Alkaloids: Cocaine is a primary example, known for its stimulant effects.
- Alcohol: A widely available depressant that slows down brain function.
- Hallucinogens: Such as LSD and psilocybin, which cause altered perceptions.
- Other substances: Nicotine (from tobacco), amphetamines, and barbiturates are also commonly abused.
3. Why does repeated use of drugs or alcohol lead to addiction and dependence?
Addiction is a complex brain disorder. When drugs or alcohol are used, they often trigger the brain's reward system, creating intense feelings of pleasure. With repeated use, the brain adapts and reduces its natural production of 'feel-good' chemicals. This leads to tolerance, where the person needs more of the drug to achieve the same effect. Over time, this creates dependence, where the body and mind rely on the substance to feel normal, leading to compulsive use despite harmful outcomes.
4. What is the difference between psychological and physical dependence on drugs?
While related, these two types of dependence are different. Psychological dependence refers to an emotional or mental craving for a drug to feel good or normal. The user feels they cannot cope without it. On the other hand, physical dependence occurs when the body has adapted to the drug's presence. If the person stops using it, they experience painful or unpleasant withdrawal symptoms as their body struggles to function without the substance.
5. What are the key strategies for the prevention and control of alcohol and drug abuse?
Prevention and control involve a multi-pronged approach. Key strategies include:
- Education and Counselling: Teaching young people about the dangers of substance abuse and equipping them to handle stress and peer pressure.
- Parental Guidance: Parents playing an active role in their children's lives and setting a positive example.
- Seeking Professional Help: Encouraging individuals to seek help from psychologists, psychiatrists, and de-addiction and rehabilitation programs without social stigma.
- Peer Support: Friends encouraging each other to avoid harmful habits and seek help if a problem arises.
6. How does alcohol and drug abuse impact not just the individual, but also their family and society?
The consequences of substance abuse extend far beyond the individual. For the user, it causes severe health problems and academic or professional failure. For the family, it leads to immense emotional pain, conflict, and financial strain. For society, it contributes to a higher burden on the healthcare system, increased crime rates, and loss of productivity.
7. What are the warning signs of addiction, and where can a person seek help?
Common warning signs of addiction include a sudden drop in academic or work performance, social withdrawal from friends and family, unexplained mood swings, and a constant need for money. If you notice these signs in yourself or someone else, it is crucial to seek professional medical help. The best first step is to talk to a trusted adult, like a parent, teacher, or school counsellor, who can guide you towards qualified psychiatrists or recognised de-addiction centres.
