Drug Abuse and Addiction Essay -- Drug Abuse, Substance Abuse

Drugs Abuse occurs when a drug is taken for unintended purposes and can lead to addiction. Addiction occurs when a person must use the drug to feel and function normally. Addiction occurs in two types, physical and psychological. Physical addiction is caused by the brain, the brain produces fewer chemicals or neurotransmitters to make up for the extra chemicals therefore the brain needs the chemicals from the drug to reach the correct balance and individual becomes out of touch with reality. Psychological addiction is much simpler, the individual simply likes the way a drug makes him/her feel and must have it, therefore becoming addicted. (Lawrence, F. 1996) Addiction has six steps. The first step is occasional use; a person takes his/her first drink or uses other drugs for the first time, and likes the way it feels and the way it reduces stress, the individual then starts using the drug in social settings. Step two is occasional trouble with drugs; a person shows mood swings or personality changes, they may experience blackouts, where they do not remember what was said or done. Step three is regular use of the drug; tolerance therefore increases and use of the drug can not be controlled and the individual denies having a drug problem. Step four is multiple drug use; drugs may be combined or switched for a new and stronger effect, the individual may then become a cross-addict or hooked on more than one drug. Step five is increasing dependency; the individual needs the drug to function and the drug no longer has the same effect. If the individual does not have the drug they will start shaking, feel sick, lose interest in school, family, or work. Step six is total dependency; the individual suffers from a maj... ...e in smokeless tobacco is addictive. Smokeless tobacco causes the production of more saliva and users swallow some without knowing it; this then introduces tar and other chemicals into the digestive and urinary systems. Cancer of the pharynx and esophagus may result. Irritation causes leukoplakia, thickened, white, leathery spots on the inside of the mouth. This can result in cancer of the lip or mouth. Users also get tooth decay, inflammation of the gums, loss of teeth, bad breath, discolored teeth and decreased ability and taste, especially salty and sweet foods. (Lawrence, F. 1996) Drug abuse is a serious issue. Not many people are aware of how serious it is. Drug abuse is so serious because it has physical and psychological affects that are fatal. Because of the fatal results drugs can have on the body people need to educate themselves and never use drugs.