Drug abuse refers to the use of drugs without a doctor's prescription. It also involves inhaling, chewing, or drinking chemical substances for purposes of altering brain functionality. There are over 35 million people in the world today on drug and substance abuse. Despite active campaigns against drug abuse, victims of drug abuse are still high. There are possible factors that result in drug abuse and later addiction.
Experimenting On Curiosity
Young people today fall victims to substance abuse through 'trial' and curiosity about what it feels like to have a puff or a sip. The first trial then will result in more 'experiments' until the habit is stuck. Seeking professional help for drug detoxification is crucial in breaking the cycle of addiction and reclaiming a healthier, drug-free life. Early intervention and effective detox programs can provide the necessary support and guidance to prevent the escalation of substance abuse among young individuals.
Peer Pressure
Young people face peer pressure about drug abuse from their friends. The fear of being left out or simply appearing odd pushes them into substance abuse. Alcohol, cannabis, and crystal meth are common at college parties, making them accessible to students. Friends and family members have also influenced grown-ups into taking drugs.
Stress and Depression
Daily problems in life may cause stress, and if it escalates, it may lead to depression. Depression is a mental disorder that affects brain function. People suffering from depression withdraw people have unpredictable mood swings and are aggressive. They may choose to drain their pain with alcohol or other drugs to ‘escape’ from their thoughts and reality. One effective treatment for individuals struggling with addiction and depression is using suboxone, a medication designed to decrease cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with opioid use. Studies have shown that treatments involving suboxone have a higher success rate when paired with therapy and a robust support system.
According to research, people with depression are more likely to engage in drug abuse. It is therefore advisable that family and friends seek immediate help for victims of trauma.
Drug Legality
Availability and ‘legality’ of drugs such as alcohol and tobacco have increased the use of drugs. It is estimated that cigarettes kill more than 480000 people in a year. Alcohol is a depressant that is widely abused in an attempt to deal with stressful situations.
Lack Of Proper Guidance
Lack of proper guidance on drugs, their effect, and damage can lead to drug abuse. Over-the-counter drugs are highly abused through self-medication. Parents may also give their children money without guiding them on how to use it. They may choose to use the money on drugs or even purchase drugs for their friends.
Genetics
People from families with a history of drug abuse are more likely to get addicted to drugs once they start using them.
Early Exposure To Drugs
Children may be exposed to drugs at a tender age, and their parents are unaware. The people children interact with may expose children to drug abuse. Economic strain may lead to parents spending less time with children and being unaware of their children being involved in drugs.
Abuse
Physical or mental abuse may result in drug abuse. The victim might try to get rid of the physical pain or try to forget painful memories through engaging in drugs.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that is a result of drug abuse. Persons with bipolar disorder are dependent on the drugs they abuse. A person with bipolar disorder will find it hard to stop using the drug, leading to more addiction. However, there is hope for severe addicts in rehabilitation and mental institutions. You can read more on how to deal with bipolar disorder with the help of a professional.
Poverty
Social-economic problems may lead to poverty. People may use cheap substances to escape their current reality. Those substances are at times lethal and may cause addiction, blindness, or death.
The Craving For ‘Feeling Good’
Sometimes, when people are introduced to drugs, they may stop at the very beginning due to an awful first experience. However, if the person abusing the drug felt good about the encounter, they are likely to try it out once more.
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