Drug Abuse: The Truth Uncovered

The abuse of drugs is a major problem worldwide, leading to premature death and drug related crimes. What actually is drug abuse? When drugs are taken for a purpose other than medicinal use or in amount /frequency that impairs one’s physical, physiological or psychological functions it constitutes drug abuse. Addiction to drug is considered to be chronic disorder characterised by compulsive drug seeking, by continued use despite of it’s bad impact on health and by loss of control over drug use. Addiction arises from drug’s neurochemical actions that produce positive reinforcing effects, that drive people to take them even when they are not needed or even when their use becomes self-destructive. With repeated use of drugs, the tolerance level of the receptors presents in our body increases. Consequently, the receptor responds only to higher doses of drug leading to greater intake. Euphoria, hallucinations and temporary feeling of well-being may provide a powerful motivational force for compulsive drug taking.

The group of drugs which are commonly abused are opioids, cannabinoids and coca alkaloid, which include drugs like heroin, marijuana, cocaine etc. Among all marijuana has been the most talked about drug lately, in relation to the demise of a famous Hindi cinema actor. Though illegal to use or have possession of, it is the most common abused drug, leading to distorted perception, impaired coordination as well as difficulty with thinking, problem solving, learning and with memory. The majority of these drugs affect the gastrointestinal tract, cardio vascular system and majorly central nervous system. Few drugs have stimulating effect on our nervous system such as cocaine interferes with the neurotransmitter dopamine, which enhances the athletic performance, urge the sports persons to fall into the trap of doping.

Survey and statistics show that use of drugs has been on the rise especially among the youth. This is really a cause of concern as other than health issues there may even be some far reaching socioeconomic implications such as vandalism, violence, stealing, reckless behaviour etc., and if the drugs are discontinued abruptly withdrawal syndrome arises which can be severe and even life threatening and the person may need medical supervision. Proper education, counselling and guidance would enable youth to safeguard against these dangerous behaviour patterns and follow healthy lifestyle. Let’s talk to our kids, friends and our loved ones more often, to make them realize that we are there, and motivate them to face reality as it is and not as it was or as they wish it to be as-

“It’s not the drugs that make a drug addict, it’s the need to escape reality”

As a teacher in DPS School in Ghaziabad, this lockdown comes with a responsibility. While the lockdown has certainly been a period of learning and lessons, it has also been a scary and overwhelming experience for a lot of us. It has also given us time to ponder upon, reflect on, and start valuing what really matters in life the most!
~Sonia Saraswat