Drug abuse

Definition

Drug abuse refers to the inappropriate or harmful use of drugs, leading to detrimental consequences for the individual and society. This behavior often involves taking substances in a manner not prescribed or intended, resulting in physical, psychological, and social issues. Drug abuse can lead to dependence and addiction, where users develop a compulsion to seek out and use substances despite negative outcomes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Drug abuse can result in serious health issues, including physical illnesses, mental health disorders, and even overdose.
2. Social factors such as peer pressure, stress, and trauma can contribute significantly to the onset of drug abuse.
3. Early intervention and treatment are critical in preventing the progression from drug abuse to dependence and addiction.
4. Certain drugs have a higher potential for abuse due to their psychoactive effects, which can create a strong desire to continue using them.
5. Legal consequences can arise from drug abuse, including arrest, incarceration, and loss of employment opportunities.

Review Questions

• What are some key differences between drug abuse and drug dependence?
  • Drug abuse refers specifically to the harmful or inappropriate use of substances, while drug dependence is a state where the body becomes reliant on a substance to function normally. Those who abuse drugs may not necessarily experience withdrawal symptoms when not using, but they often face negative consequences related to their behavior. On the other hand, dependence indicates a physical or psychological need for the substance, often marked by withdrawal symptoms when not consuming it.
• Discuss how tolerance can develop in individuals who engage in drug abuse and its implications for treatment.
  • Tolerance develops when an individual requires higher doses of a substance to achieve the same effects due to repeated use. This increase in dosage can lead to more severe health risks and complications associated with drug abuse. In terms of treatment, recognizing tolerance is crucial because it indicates that the individual may be at an increased risk for dependence or overdose. Treatment plans need to address both the physical aspect of tolerance as well as the underlying behavioral issues associated with drug abuse.
• Evaluate the broader societal impacts of drug abuse and how it contributes to issues like crime and healthcare costs.
  • Drug abuse has significant societal impacts that extend beyond the individual level. It contributes to increased crime rates as individuals may resort to illegal activities to support their habits or as a result of impaired judgment while under the influence. Additionally, the healthcare costs associated with treating conditions arising from drug abuse strain public resources, including emergency services and long-term rehabilitation programs. Addressing drug abuse comprehensively requires understanding these societal implications and implementing strategies that reduce both individual harm and broader social consequences.

Related terms

dependence: A state in which an individual requires a substance to function normally, often leading to withdrawal symptoms when not using.

addiction: A chronic condition characterized by compulsive drug seeking, continued use despite harmful consequences, and long-lasting changes in the brain.

tolerance: The phenomenon where a person requires increasing amounts of a substance to achieve the same effect due to repeated use.