Composition & Essay Writing . [ 18 ]

(18) Composition & Essay Writing

 

  

Drug Addiction 

 Drugs known to cause addiction include illegal drugs as well as prescription or over-the-counter drugs. They include:

1. stimulants such as caffeine , cocaine and nicotine.

2. sedatives and hypnotics such as alcohol, barbiturates and methaqualone.

3. opiate and opioid analgesics such as morphine, semi-synthetic opiates such as heroin and fully-synthetic opioids.

 The addictive potency of drugs varies from substance to substance and from individual to individual. Drugs such a codeine or alcohol for instance require more exposure to addict their users than drugs such as heroin or cocaine. The most common drug addictions are caffeine, nicotine in the form of tobacco, particularly cigarettes and alcohol in the form of wine.

The factors that cause the epidemic out-break of addiction are mainly:

1. availability of the addictive substance.

2. money to acquire the substance.

3. time to use the substance.

4. example of use of the substance in the immediate environment.

5. a permissive ideology in relation to the use of the substance.

 Drug abuse affects the person’s life in many ways, including health, finances and stability. But it also affects the entire family, friends, colleagues and even the community. Those who abuse drugs have a greater risk or health problems down the road, from neglecting their own health to risk of infectious disease like hepatitis or HIV from sharing needles. Heavy drug use directly affects health as well, including lung disease, arthritis, heart problems, brain damage and death from overdose. Productivity at work often suffers and eventually trouble keeping a job or even homelessness can occur. The urge to use is so perfect that criminal activity for money or more drugs can be a strong temptation.

 Sadly drug abuse and addiction also affect friends, family and the entire society. The abuser may neglect the child’s basic needs in the quest for more drugs or lack of impulse control can lead to increased physical and emotional abuse. Drug abuse by a pregnant woman affects the developing baby’s health. Domestic violence also happens more frequently. Abusing drugs leads to higher risk of injuries and death to self and others in car accidents. Drug abuse can lower inhibitions and increase the possibility of violence. Stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine can also trigger delusions, paranoia and agitation making the person especially dangerous to be around.

 Drug addiction is a complex but treatable brain disease. As a chronic recurring illness, addiction may require continued treatments to increase the intervals between relapses and diminish their intensity. Through treatment tailored to individual needs, people with drug addiction can recover and lead productive lives. Recovery is possible with the right medical help and social support. The road to sobriety is rewarding but challenging .