Drug Addiction
Drug abuse in the UK has developed into a major problem and the chances of developing a drug addiction are constantly increasing. Indeed, a 2007 study by the UK Drugs Policy Commission shows that drug abuse in the UK is of a higher level than anywhere else in Europe and has the second highest level of drug-related deaths. Contrary to prevailing drug myths, the majority of drug-related deaths are not overdoses but accidental deaths stemming from the loss of physical and mental control that is directly associated with drug taking.
What are The Effects of Drug Addiction?
In addition to a physical drug addiction there is the high potential for developing psychological and behavioural problems. These can include depression, anxiety, aggression and panic attacks. Studies have also shown that certain drug abuse can lead to the development of a number of mental health issues, including schizophrenia in later life even though drug use may have ceased many years earlier.
Perhaps more immediately recognisable are the lifestyle implications of drug abuse. Self neglect, decline in general health and appearance, loss of appetite or normal eating patterns, an inability to sustain relationships and employment difficulties often combine to produce a downward spiral indicative of drug addiction. Further implications of drug abuse can include a breakdown of family and close relationships and the loss of employment due to reduced performance, lack of punctuality, errors and accidents or excessive sickness absence, loss of driving licence and prosecutions, often for drug offences or stealing to feed an addiction.
What are the Risks of Taking Drugs?
Prolonged use of mood altering substances is likely to lead to a state of dependency, and a predisposition to addiction through a genetic connection, can increase the likelihood of you developing a drug addiction. Additionally, using illicit drugs can lead to an increase in the onset and severity of drug related health problems. These can include some, or all of the following:
- HIV/AIDS
- Hepatitis B and C
- High Blood Pressure
- Lung Disease
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Extreme Weight Loss or Malnutrition
- Sexual Problems
- Personality Deterioration
The prolonged use of drugs, whether illegal or prescription, can result in a significant shortening of life expectancy and is often connected with suicides amongst young people.
What will be the path you take?
It is not true to say that everyone who suffers from a drug addiction will result in the above consequences. Indeed, the addiction can take its toll on one person in one way and in a completely different way on somebody else. The point is that, universally, drug addiction is associated with an adverse change in lifestyle, most often resulting in the breakdown of social and individual interactions. Whilst the pathway to drug addiction may not always follow the same route, at some stage all addicts will need a professional intervention to prevent the worst effects from occurring. The earlier you seek treatment, the quicker you can get your life back on track.
