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Alcohol and Drug Abuse

Alcohol and drug abuse are characterized as a pattern of repeated substance use that usually results in tolerance (the need for greater amounts of the substance to achieve the same effect), withdrawal (physical and cognitive effects when substance use declines or stops), and compulsive alcohol or drug taking behavior (alcohol/drug use that persists despite efforts to reduce intake and despite problems with family, friends, and work).

When it comes to the causes of alcohol and drug abuse, experimentation and curiosity are the first factors that draw many to try these substances. They initially set out to experience a “high,” the sense of euphoria that comes with drug use.

Another factor that may lead to alcohol and drug abuse is the effects that the drugs have on the user. By stimulating the internal reward system in the user’s brain, drugs and alcohol make the addict crave the drug to continually stimulate this reward center. These cravings lead the addict to stop focusing on those things that used to be important, and begin focusing on another dose of their drug or alcohol of choice.

The impact of alcohol and drug abuse can lead to cardiovascular disease, stroke, cancer, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, and lung disease. Some of these detrimental effects occur when drugs are used at high doses or after extended abuse. However, some effects may occur after just one use. .Additionally, drug and alcohol abuse often results in painful withdrawal symptoms when use is stopped suddenly. This frequently provides drug users with another reason to continue their destructive drug behavior.

In the end, helping someone overcome their alcohol and drug abuse problem is difficult, but not impossible. Support from family and friends as well as attending an alcohol and drug abuse treatment program will help ensure the individual is able to put an end to their abuse problem