DRUG ABUSE - BEING AWARE OF THE PROBLEM

    The use of certain chemicals to produce pleasurable effects on the brain is referred to as drug abuse or substance abuse.In the United States, the penalties for selling narcotics are substantially higher than those for merely possessing them. Similar to drug dealing, trafficking in and out of banned substances is a serious felony that is punishable by lengthy mandatory prison terms.

WARNING INDICATORS

    People who take drugs frequently try to hide their symptoms and minimise their issue. The following warning signals should be observed if you suspect a friend or loved one is taking drugs: issues with your relationships, such as quarrels with your partner or family, a disgruntled boss, or the demise of pals.

Physical indicators

• Eyes with bloodshot appearance, unusually big or tiny pupils
• Alterations in eating or sleeping habits
• Unexpected weight gain or loss
• Degradation of appearance and personal grooming habits
• Unusual odours on the body, breath, or clothing
• Decreased coordination, slurred speech, or tremors

Behavioral indicators

• Declining attendance and performance at work or school
• Unexpected financial challenges, thievery, or borrowing
• While acting dubious or suspiciously
• Friends, favourite hangouts, and hobbies suddenly alter
• Getting into trouble a lot (fights, accidents, illegal activities)

Psychological indicators

• Unexpected changes in personality or attitude
• Unexpected mood swings, annoyance, or irrational rage
• Periods of unusual agitation, giddiness, or hyperactivity
• Lack of motivation appears sleepy or "spaced out"
• Appears frightened, nervous, or suspicious

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

Talk up:

    Express your concerns to the person and provide your help and support without casting judgement. Addiction should be treated as soon as feasible. Waiting till a loved one is at their lowest point is not advisable. Give specific examples of your loved one's actions that alarm you and implores them to get assistance.

Protect your own health:

    Be cautious. Avoid putting yourself in risky situations. Avert being so involved with another person's drug use that you neglect your own needs. Make sure you have a confidante and a support system you can count on.

Stop blaming yourself:

    An addict cannot be changed; you can only support someone who has a problem with substance addiction and encourage them to seek treatment. A loved one's decisions are out of your hands. Having the person accept responsibility for their actions is the first step in healing.

To Prevent Drug Abuse, Parents Are the First Line of Defense:

    Alcohol and cigarettes, as well as other narcotics, are readily available to kids and teenagers. You, as a parent, have a big say in whether your kid decides not to use drugs.

   Children in elementary school have probably not started using alcohol, or any other form of drug. Because of this, discussing the risks of drug use in elementary school is a smart idea. Get your youngster ready for a moment when drugs may be introduced.

   Parents must learn how to have uncomfortable conversations with their kids in order to prevent drug misuse. Then, what you have started might be supported by the programmes supplied by the school, sports, and other organizations.

COMPLICATIONS

    Depending on the substance used, there may be different short- and long-term risks associated with drug addiction. The following are some of the most typical risks linked to drug abuse:

Drug abuse's long-term risks include:

Psychological

• Depression
• Paranoia
• Anxiety

Physical

• Kidney damage
• A liver problem
• Heart failure and disease
• Lung injury

Drug abuse's short-term risks include:

Psychological

• Paranoia
• Confusion
• Weak memory
• Anxiety

Physical

• Higher blood pressure
• Increased heart rate
• Nausea
• Injuries

HOW WE HELP YOU?

    When it comes to the healing process, many people consider addiction counselling to be "extra." However, it will be a difficult road ahead to successfully overcome an addiction, whether it is to alcohol, prescription medications, or illegal narcotics.

    Addiction counselling is, in actuality, an essential component of any drug abuse recovery and treatment programme for many people. Family counselling, cognitive behavioral therapy, and even other forms of treatment can help those who are addicted to drugs get help and stay clean. Call us at to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment for counselling (+1 315 750 4197).