Drug addiction is a serious problem, which affects thousands of people in the UK every year. The UK has one of the highest levels of addiction in Europe, with more than 300,000 people classed as drug addicts.
What is an addiction?
An addiction is a serious, compulsive disorder, which compels people to do something even though they are aware of the negative implications of their actions. Most people associate addictions with smoking and taking illegal drugs, but people can also be addicted to many other things, including drinking alcohol, prescription drugs, working and even shopping.
People with drug addictions feel an overwhelming compulsion to take drugs, even if they cannot afford it and know that taking drugs may harm their health and put a strain on their personal relationships.
Which drugs are most common?
The most common drug addictions are heroin, cocaine, cannabis, ecstasy and amphetamines. Drugs are very addictive and somebody who starts taking drugs on a casual basis can quickly become hooked on that drug.
What are the effects of drug addiction?
Drug addictions have wide-ranging effects, which are not solely confined to health problems and conditions. Drug addictions have implications for the individual, the individual’s family and friends and society as a whole. Drugs have been directly linked to certain types of crime and anti-social behaviour and treatment for accidents and health conditions caused by taking drugs costs the NHS millions of pounds every year.
Physical effects of taking drugs include:
- an increased risk of heart attacks and heart palpitations
- increased blood pressure
- racing heartbeat
- sweating, tremors
- increased body temperature
Psychological effects of taking drugs
Taking drugs on a regular basis can contribute to the following psychological issues:
- anxiety
- depression
- paranoia
- hallucinations
- disturbed sleep patterns
Taking drugs can also destroy family bonds and friendships and lead to financial ruin for many people.
What can be done to help people with drug addiction?
Once somebody admits that they have a drug addiction, there is a great deal of help and support available to them. Drug addicts are treated free of charge on the NHS in the same way that other patients are. The treatment pathway starts with the GP, who will carry out an initial assessment and refer the patient for further treatment and assistance. Patients with drug addiction are assigned a key worker, who will stick with them throughout their treatment. Treatment methods often involve replacement drug therapy, to enable people to come off drugs gradually and prevent withdrawal symptoms, one to one counselling and behavioural therapy, group therapy and rehabilitation.
Recent Comments