Substance (Drug) Use and its Effect on Mental Health

Substance (Drug) Use Part 3

Addiction can be described practically by “3 C’s”: Control – repeated attempts to cut back or control use, with episodes or loss of control in between Compulsion – one experiences a sense that they must use; tolerance, withdrawal or craving Consequences – substance use is continued despite significant negative consequences According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), Addiction is a primary, chronic disease of brain reward, motivation, memory and related circuitry. Dysfunction in these circuits leads to characteristic biological, psychological, social and spiritual manifestations. This is reflected in an individual pathologically pursuing reward and/or relief by substance use and other behaviors. Addiction is characterized by inability to consistently abstain, impairment in behavioral control, craving, diminished recognition of significant problems with one’s behaviors and interpersonal relationships, and a dysfunctional emotional response. Like other chronic diseases, addiction often involves cycles of relapse and remission. Without treatment or engagement in recovery activities, addiction is progressive and can result in disability or premature death. Risk Factors for addiction can be internal (personal) or external. Internal factors include:  Genetics/ biological factors and drug effects  Gender /sex  Early drug use /age  Physical or mental illness  Personal characteristics – high vulnerability to anxiety/ depression; impulsiveness  Lack of attachment to healthy adults/ mainstream culture External factors include:  Family of origin  Abuse from the family and others  Culture  Peers/ friends  Availability of substances  Stressors – poverty, unemployment, job stress, divorce, single parenting  Exposure to trauma – rape, natural disaster, civil war, international conflict There are other processes that maintain addiction even after drug use is no longer enjoyable. These include the fact that the drug use  Provides one a form of identity, role and friends  Helps one forget the past  Is a way of avoiding responsibilities  Helps one withdraw from intimacy  Keeps away withdrawal symptoms  May be a way of slow suicide or self punishment  Is acting out of self hate It is also important to note that since many factors which promote and maintain addiction are psychological and social, people can develop addictions to other human behaviour or experiences. These include: food, sex, gambling, pornography, exercise, internet, television, shopping, role- playing games, among others. If anyone is concerned that they may be having a problem with substance abuse or addiction, it is important that they seek help immediately from the nearest health facility whereby they shall be directed to the appropriate health care providers. Please remember that:  Addiction is a disease, not a choice  Addiction is progressive, chronic and can be fatal  Young brains are at highest risk due to its unique stage of development (especially adolescents)  Addiction is very treatable especially if one seeks help early  It is important to focus on prevention of addiction  Early interventions, assessment and treatment are the keys to successful recovery from addiction