Drug misuse involves the inappropriate or incorrect use of substances, including illicit drugs, prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs, often leading to addiction. This misuse can be characterised by taking drugs in a manner that diverges from medical guidance or recommended dosages and it has significant negative impacts both on the individual and those around them. The addiction recovery community views drug misuse as a key factor in the development of substance use disorders. Throughout history, the misuse of various drugs has contributed to public health challenges. Addiction treatment centers address this issue through education, counselling, therapy and sometimes medication-assisted treatment, aiming to promote responsible drug use and support individuals towards recovery. Rehabilitation efforts are important in breaking the cycle of misuse and guiding individuals towards a drug-free lifestyle.

Why Do People Misuse Drugs?

People engage in drug use for various reasons, including the pursuit of pleasure, relief from anxiety, stress or depression, enhancement of performance in academic or professional settings and due to curiosity or peer pressure, particularly among teenagers. Despite the initial positive effects perceived by users, drug misuse can lead to addiction, a condition where the individual loses control over their drug intake, causing significant harm to themselves and their loved ones. Addiction is characterised by a compulsive need to consume drugs despite the negative consequences and can lead to a deterioration in enjoying other activities, increasing the drug dosage and experiencing withdrawal symptoms.

The choice to start using drugs is often voluntary but continuous use can impair self-control making it a hallmark of addiction. This impairment is supported by changes in the brain regions responsible for judgment, decision-making and behaviour control, illustrating the compulsive nature of addiction. Several factors contribute to the risk of developing an addiction, including biological elements like genetics and developmental stage and environmental influences such as family dynamics, peer pressure and socio-economic conditions. Early drug use, the method of drug consumption and a combination of social and biological risk factors increase the likelihood of addiction, which can have lasting and profound effects on brain development and overall well-being.

This disorder can lead to both short-term and long-term health effects, which vary based on the substance used, dosage, method of delivery and duration of use. Short-term physical effects can range from changes in coordination and heart rate to increased or decreased wakefulness and sociability. Long-term use can result in serious health issues, including heart disease, liver inflammation, severe dental problems and increased risk of infectious diseases. The mental effects of SUD also vary with short-term use leading to euphoria, reduced anxiety or enhanced sensory perception, while long-term use may cause depression, anxiety, learning and memory problems and increased risk of other mental disorders. The mental and physical effects underscore the complexity of SUD, highlighting the importance of addressing this disorder to mitigate its wide-ranging negative impacts on health.

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