Drugs: Substances Which Are Harmful To Our Health (Essay Sample)

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Drug and substance abuse
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Drug and substance abuse.
With each day that rises, cases of drug abuse are always on the rise in the society that we live in. Drug abuse, also known as substance abuse refers to regular intake of substances which are harmful to our health. Continued use of these substances leads to a physical addiction and craving which thus causes their regular intake. Drug abuse can be termed as either prescription drug abuse or illegal drug abuse. In prescription drug abuse, the user uses the drug for other purposes other than the prescribed one (Karberg and Mumola, 12). Illegal drug abuse, on the other hand, entails usage of drugs that are forbidden by law.
The following are varies examples of drugs that cause dependence: cigarettes contain nicotine which is their addictive substance. Apparently, it is among the most addictive substances. Caffeine is mostly found in coffee and tea and when consumed in excess may result in insomnia and anxiety. Cocaine, bhang, and heroine tend to stimulate the nervous system. Alcohol, despite being legal is harmful if taken during pregnancy (Greenfield et al., 97). These drugs can be inhaled, sniffed, injected, or dropped into the eyes.
There may be various reasons as to why one starts up drug abuse. Most teenagers get into drug abuse mainly through peer pressure. Psychological reasons that may result in dependence on drugs include depression, low self-esteem, anxiety, stress, and antisocial personality disorder. Bad parenting is also another cause of drug abuse.
The above-mentioned drugs intoxicate the circulatory system hence affecting the central nervous system and the brain. This may result to one making insensible decisions, changing of moods, anxiety, and depression. Drug addiction leads to malnutrition, aggression, health deterioration, psychotic behavior, brain damage and fewer reflex actions. The drug addict also indulges in dangerous sexual activity thus is prone to sexually transmitted infections (Metzger and O’Brien, 103). The addict may also engage in criminal activities such as prostitution and burglary in a bid to get money for purchasing the drugs. There is reduced fertility and children may be born with serious illnesses. There is stunted personality, and families are destroyed (Greenfield et al., 173)
There are physical and behavioral symptoms that are common among drug addicts. These include:
* Bloodshot eyes.
* Change in appetite and sleep patterns.
* Sudden change in individual and social relationships
* Inebriated coordination and slurred speech
* Unexplained lack of meeting obligations at home, school, or work.
* Need for money that is unexplained and indulging in suspicious behavior.
* Weight loss or weight gain that is sudden
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Drug addiction can, however, be treated through rehabilitation and abstinence. Nevertheless, during the initial stages of abstinence, an addict r...