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Drugs and Alcohol Abuse
Drug and Alcohol Abuse Drugs are not something that plagues the local area, it is all around the world.
The International Day against Drug Misuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed annually on June 26 with the goal of raising awareness of the problem of drug abuse and addiction as well as its effects among individuals and communities.
Adolescent substance abuse is on the rise in India at a startling rate, and this is a direct result of:
- Shifting cultural norms
- Intense competition in the fields of education and employment
- Mounting financial stress on families , and
- Deteriorating supportive ties for teenagers during this formative stage.
- Exposure to substance use in the family and community also increases the likelihood of substance use among adolescent boys.
According to the report “Magnitude of substance use in India”, the use of harmful substances like opioids, inhalants, sedatives, injected drugs, and alcohol had increased at an alarming rate, especially among adult Indian men. In India, consumption of tobacco and alcohol has become common among adolescents, and in the case of tobacco consumption, the age of initiation was observed to be as low as 12 years.
The taboo around alcohol has come down significantly in India, especially in metro cities, where it has been accepted as a way of socializing , not only among adults but also among teenagers.
A third of all teenagers are likely to have their first drink before they start college.
Alcohol consumption among teenagers in metros is increasing with 45% of class XII students drinking excessively, 5-6 times a month, reveals a survey. The reasons include:
- Peer pressure
- Plenty of Pocket Money
- Easy access to Alcohol
- Low parental supervision
- Curiosity
Another reason for the rising issue is the various games based on liquor or centered around it, which are now gaining popularity amongst teenagers. Binge drinking, bottoms-up, or doing shots determine who can drink the most and with minimum intervals, thus leading to more alcohol consumption.
Alcohol and drugs are recognised as substances which have consequences, but once the use turns into abuse it can lead to grave danger.
Due to the harmful consequences of the substance, abusers are more prone to experience medical issues along the route. Disorders often appear to go hand in hand with alcohol and drug abuse.
People who binge drink or drink heavily may notice more health effects sooner, but alcohol also poses some risks for people who drink in moderation.
They may experience:
- Body: Blackouts , Dizziness , Sweating
- Behavioral: Aggression , Agitation , compulsive Behavior , Lack of restraint
- Mood: Anxiety , Euphoria , Loneliness , General Discontent
- Gastrointestinal : Nausea , Vomiting
- Psychological : Delirium , Fear
Drugs are chemicals that affect the body and brain. Different drugs can have different effects. Some effects of drugs include health consequences that are long-lasting and permanent. They can even continue after a person has stopped taking the substance.
- Weakened immune system
- Nausea and abdominal pain
- Changes in appetite and weight loss
- Seizures, stroke, mental confusion and brain damage Heart conditions
The social consequences of alcohol and drug abuse lie within the reasons people are using such substances in the first place. A large concern has been brought to this problem regarding its occurrence in the young generation.The main issue with highlighting the young generation is that they will serve as the foundation for the future. Governments and nations have endeavored throughout history to correct many past errors by nurturing and fostering a generation that will possess the most favorable traits.
