Drug addiction, also known as drug abuse, is a condition where a person requires the presence of drugs in order to function properly. It is the compulsion of a person to use a variety or even a specific type of dangerous substance even though they are fully aware of its negative effects.
Note that there is a huge difference between drug addiction and drug dependence. For instance people that have conditions such as those affecting the heart are dependent on their drug medications to keep them healthy. While drug addiction is where a person takes a drug even though they do not have any medical condition for which that drug can be used as treatment, and the use of these drugs leads to more harm.
When we look at society and try to understand the various causes and effects of drug addiction it can be seen that there are actually numerous reasons that lead to this predicament. Often people are influenced by several factors which usually include the media, socialization or peer pressure and deep seated issues. As for the effects, there are a lot to mention and unfortunately almost all of these are negative.
One of the common reasons that lead to drug addiction is drug abuse. Some people who use these drugs as a form of medication to relieve pain are at risk of becoming addicted. This is not a rare scenario especially for those that already have a history of addiction.
It has been proven in some studies that children that are raised in an environment where they are exposed to illicit drug use can become potential addicts themselves. These children are placed at a higher risk of developing drug addiction later on in their lives.
Here are some of the specific causes of drug abuse or drug addiction:
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Exposure to a society or culture that does not condemn drug use.
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Highly stressful lifestyle
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Economic or emotional set backs or problems
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Having a low self esteem
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Difficulty in keeping relationships
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An easy access to or high availability of drugs
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Depression
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Psychological disorders like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and anxiety conditions
As for the effects of drug addiction here are some of the most common signs that can be observed:
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Altered state of mind such as confusion
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Continued usage of drugs despite the fact that there are noticeable negative effects on the family, heath and even work.
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Occurrence of violent episodes
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When confronted about the truth, the person may become hostile
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Lack of conscious control or logical thinking
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Creating various excuses just so they can take drugs
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Change in social pattern such as missing classes or school and work
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Decreased performance in academics or work
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Requires a daily dose of the drug in order to function properly
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Inappetence or forgetting to eat
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Neglecting their physical appearance
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Reluctance to partake in various physical activities
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Secretive behaviour or suspicious behavior such as hiding in order to use drugs
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