Alcohol and Drug Abuse - Symptoms & Treatment

What is Alcohol and Drug Abuse?

Alcohol and drug abuse refers to the excessive, or inappropriate use of substances that negatively affect the brain and body functions. It results in loss of control, and inability to perform normal daily activities. Addiction is the feeling of wanting more and more of the substance. A feeling of euphoria is caused by the consumption of drugs and alcohol. They become habituated to this sense of joy and start taking more drugs and alcohol. The body increases its tolerance level due to the use of drugs and the frequent use of alcohol. As a result, people take more drugs to feel better or even when they are not needed. This habit makes the person repeat the cycle and causes addiction.

Types of Drugs and Their Effects

Most of the drugs are plant-derived, such as opioids, coca alkaloids, and cannabinoids. Synthetic drugs include barbiturates, amphetamines, and benzodiazepines. Drugs affect the central nervous system. They change the functioning of the body and cause multiple damages. They alter the feeling of the body due to distorted signals. This causes hallucinations and distorted perceptions. During the influence of drugs, people go for unusual activities.

Causes of Alcohol And Drug Abuse

There are multiple reasons why people turn to alcohol and drugs, including:

Negative Effects of Substance Abuse

• Rapid heart rate

• Slow movement of the body

• Throat dryness

• Rapid breathing or slow breathing

• Impaired senses (smell, sight, hearing, touch)

• Substance abuse results in devastating impacts on the physical, physiological, and mental states

• No safe dosage for drug intake; long-term use creates tolerance and dependence

• During adolescence, young people often initiate drug or alcohol use to relieve anxiety or depression or to gain popularity in their social interactions.

• Access to drugs such as tobacco and alcohol serve as a gateway to dangerous use of drugs like marijuana, cocaine, and heroin

• Adolescents show poor academic performances, friendship change, criminal behaviour and strained family relationships.

• Body may show signs like red eyes, frequent coughing, and changes in eating or sleeping pattern

• Dependency signs such as black outs, withdrawal signs, loss of functioning in family, school, or work.

Prevention of Alcohol and Drug Abuse

Prevention strategies are highly important in combating this ever-increasing problem of substance misuse. Holistic prevention includes all the education, support systems, and healthcare interventions.

Tips, Tricks & Strategies to Study the Topic

• Visual Aids: Utilize diagrams to obtain an impact of substances on brain functioning, neuron communication, and body systems.

• Mnemonics: The kinds of drugs can be recalled with the use of a mnemonic like "CD-HS" or Cannabis, Depressants, Hallucinogens, Stimulants

• Real-Life Examples: Case studies help in relating academic knowledge regarding alcohol and drug abuse to real-life situations.

• Flashcards: Flashcards are utilized for remembering causes, effects, and prevention strategies for alcohol and drug abuse.

Exam Weightage and Question Types

The table given below indicates the types of questions and weightage of the topic Alcohol drug abuse prevention control in different exams:

Alcohol and Drug Abuse NEET MCQs

Q1. What is characterised by anxiety, shakiness, nausea and sweating , which may be relieved when use is resumed again ?

1. Withdrawal syndrome

2. Biopsy

3. Alopecia

4. None of these

Correct answer: 1) Withdrawal syndrome

Explanation:

Withdrawal syndrome is characterized by symptoms such as anxiety, shakiness, nausea, and sweating, which are often alleviated when the substance is used again. In some cases, withdrawal symptoms can be severe and even life-threatening, requiring medical supervision to ensure the safety and well-being of the individual. This highlights the physical and psychological dependence associated with substance use, making professional help essential in managing withdrawal and recovery.

Hence the correct answer is option 1) Withdrawal syndrome.

Q2. Addiction is

1. Intake of drugs

2. Intake of tobacco and alcohol

3. Both (1) and (2)

4. Physiological or/and psychological dependence

Correct answer: 4) Physiological or/and psychological dependence

Explanation:

When a person becomes physiologically and/or psychologically dependent on a substance, like drugs, alcohol, or tobacco, it is referred to as addiction. The inability to quit using the substance despite negative consequences and obsessive behavior are involved.

The alternatives are broken down as follows:

Drug use: Although drug use can result in addiction, dependency, not merely substance use, is what defines addiction.

Drinking alcohol and tobacco: Just like using drugs, drinking alcohol and tobacco can lead to addiction, but addiction is characterized by a dependence on these substances rather than just their usage.

Both options (1) and (2) cover drug, alcohol, and tobacco use, but reliance rather than consumption is a better way to characterize addiction.

Addiction is properly defined as physiological or psychological reliance. It involves an individual's mental and/or physical dependence on a substance, which results in compulsive use.
Physiological and/or psychological dependence on substances such as alcohol, tobacco, or drugs is known as addiction.

Hence, the correct answer is option 4) Physiological or/and psychological dependence.

Q3. Which drug is being excessively taken by some sports persons nowadays?

1. Opioids

2. Barbiturates

3. Cannabinoids

4. Lysergic acid diethyl amides (LSD)

Correct answer: 3) Cannabinoids.

Explanation:

Sportspersons who misuse drugs, do so to enhance their performance. They (mis)use narcotic analgesics, anabolic steroids, diuretics and certain hormones in sports to increase muscle strength and bulk promote aggressiveness and as a result, increase athletic performance.

Hence, the correct answer is Option 3) Cannabinoids.

Also Read:

• MCQs on Commonly Abused Drugs and their Effects

• Viral Diseases

• Life Cycle of Plasmodium

FAQs on Alcohol and Drug Abuse

What do you mean by alcohol and drug abuse?

Alcohol and drug abuse refers to the excessive, habitual, or inappropriate use of substances that negatively affect the brain and body functions. It results in loss of control, dependency, and inability to perform normal daily activities. Such abuse not only harms the individual’s health but also impacts family, academics, and society. Long term use can lead to addiction, which is difficult to overcome. Addiction is the feeling of wanting more and more of the substance. People become habituated to this sense of joy and as a result, they take more drugs to feel better or even when they are not needed

What are the causes of substance abuse?

The causes of substance abuse are many. Peer pressure is a major reason among adolescents, where friends may influence one to experiment. Stress, anxiety, and depression often push individuals to seek relief through drugs or alcohol. Genetic predisposition can increase vulnerability to addiction. Easy availability of substances and curiosity about their effects also contribute. Lack of guidance and weak family support further enhance the risk.

What are the effects of alcohol and drug abuse?

The effects of alcohol and drug abuse are both short-term and long-term. In the short term, it impairs judgment, senses, and motor coordination, leading to accidents or poor performance. Continuous use leads to dependency and addiction, making it hard to quit. Long-term abuse causes damage to the liver, lungs, heart, and brain, and weakens the immune system. It also results in academic decline, loss of relationships, and social stigma.

How can alcohol and drug abuse be prevented?

Prevention of substance abuse requires a multi-dimensional approach. Education and awareness programs in schools help students understand the risks early. Parental guidance and involvement play a crucial role in monitoring behavior. Counselling and mental health support provide coping mechanisms for stress. Governments must enforce strict laws and policies to limit the availability of harmful substances. A supportive environment with positive peer influence and healthy activities also reduces risk.

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