essay on drugs are dangerous

What are the dangers from using drugs?

DrugWise infographic on drug dangers (PDF)

Some people think everyone who takes drugs will end up dead. Others seem to think that drug use is not dangerous at all. The truth is somewhere in between…

Drug use can never be 100% safe but it is not always as dangerous as people think. The dangers of drug use depend on drug, set and setting factors.

The ‘drug’ part is everything connected with the drug and how it is used. The ‘set’ part is everything connected with the person who is using the drugs. The ‘setting’ part is about what the person is doing at the time, where they are, the environment they live in etc.

The basic principle is that drug dangers are the result of interactions between drug, set and setting.

Drugs are not all the same and different drugs have different dangers associated with them.

Some drugs (such as alcohol, heroin and tranquillisers) have a sedative effect which slow down the way the body and brain function. They can have a numbing effect that produces drowsiness if a lot is taken.

Other drugs (such as amphetamine, cocaine, crack and ecstasy) have a stimulant effect giving a rush of energy and making people more alert.

A third group of drugs (such as LSD and magic mushrooms and to a lesser extent cannabis and ecstasy) have a hallucinogenic effect. This means they tend to alter the way the user feels, sees, hears, tastes or smells.

Sedative drugs like alcohol and heroin can lead to fatal overdose if a lot is taken. They can also affect coordination making accidents more likely. Use of sedatives can also lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms while other drugs like cannabis cannot.

Stimulant drugs can produce anxiety or panic attacks particularly if taken in large quantities. They can be particularly dangerous for people who have heart or blood pressure problems.

Hallucinogenic drugs sometimes produce very disturbing experiences and may lead to erratic or dangerous behaviour by the user.

And of course some drugs are legal to use and others are not. Being arrested and getting a conviction can lead to all sorts of problems.

The dangers of drug use will also depend on:

How much is taken. The more that is taken the greater the danger. Taking too much of a sedative drug can lead to a fatal overdose. Taking a large dose of a stimulant drug can lead to panic attacks, heart problems or in extreme cases, psychotic behaviour (where all sense of reality is lost). Taking a large dose of a hallucinogenic drug may lead to disturbing experiences. Taking a high dose of many drugs can lead to a lack of coordination and increase the likelihood of accidents.
How often the drug is taken. The more often a drug is taken, the greater the risks to your health, particularly if the body hasn’t had time to recover. With some drugs a tolerance can develop and more needs to be taken in order to keep getting an effect. If heavy, frequent use is followed by a period of non-use tolerance levels drop. Taking the same amount of drug needed with high tolerance levels can bring on an overdose, especially with drugs like heroin. Not all drugs produce tolerance. LSD has its own safeguard against tolerance, if taken too frequently it just stops working and no matter how much is taken there will be no effect at all.
Other things in drugs. Many illegal drugs, especially in powder or pill form, have other drugs or substances mixed in with them. These can change the effect of the drugs and contribute to dangers.
Drug mixtures. Combining drugs can produce unpredictable and sometimes dangerous effects. In particular, mixtures of sedative drugs can be very dangerous. Many reported drug overdoses involve mixtures of alcohol and tranquillisers or opiates.
How a drug is taken. The method of use will influence the effect the drug has and its possible dangers. See section below for more information.

Drug dangers also vary with the method used to take them:

Injecting drugs has a very quick and intense effect, it is particularly risky because it is difficult to know how much is being taken. Injection also carries the risk of infection by blood borne diseases if any injecting equipment is shared. Highest profile recently has been given to HIV, the virus that leads to AIDS, but there are also risks from Hepatitis B and C, another very serious blood borne disease.
Eating or drinking a drug is the method with the slowest effect but it can be risky if people take a lot in one go. The effects tend to be slow but once they come on it is too late to do anything about it. Examples are drinking too much alcohol in a short space of time or eating a lump of cannabis. In such cases people can suddenly feel very drunk or stoned and become very disorientated.
Snorting is another quick and intense method (though not as much as injecting). Snorting drugs like amphetamine or cocaine powder up the nose on a regular basis can lead to damage to the nasal membranes although this risk has sometimes been exaggerated.

There are more and less dangerous ways of inhaling solvents such as glues, gases and aerosols. Squirting solvents into a large plastic bag and then placing the bag over the head has led to death by suffocation. Squirting aerosols or butane straight down the throat has led to deaths through freezing of the airways. Squirting onto a rag or small bag then inhaling is not as dangerous as the previous methods.

Smoking a drug is a relatively less dangerous method of use although regular smoking can damage the respiratory system especially if the drug is smoked with tobacco, as is often the case with cannabis.

The effects and dangers of drugs are influenced by many things. Personal factors involving the person who is using the drugs can be just as important as the drugs being used.

The drug experience and the expectations of the user are important. Many young people experimenting with drugs for the first time will be unsure about what to do or what to expect. This ignorance and lack of experience can itself be dangerous.

The mental or psychological state of the drug user is very important. The mood people are in when they take drugs influences the effects and dangers of drug use. If they are anxious, depressed or unstable they are more likely to have disturbing experiences when using drugs. They can become more anxious and disoriented, possibly aggressive, ‘freak out’ and do crazy things or take too much etc. As a general rule someone who is happy and stable is more likely to use more carefully and not be so badly affected.

Other things about the person which may affect drug dangers include:

If they have physical health problems like heart disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, diabetes, asthma or liver problems, drug use could be more dangerous and possibly make their health problem worse.
The drug user’s energy levels at the time of consuming drugs can also be important. If they are tired at the time of use then it may have a different or more extreme effect than if they are fresh and full of energy.
If the user has a low body weight the same amount of drugs may affect them more than heavier people. Also people who have eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia can find that drug use makes their eating difficulties even worse.
Males and females can experience drugs in different ways. This is both because of their different physical make up and the different way people view male and female drug use. On average women are of smaller body weight than men, have smaller livers as a proportion of body weight and a greater proportion of body fat. This means that, generally speaking, the same amount of drugs will have a greater effect on a woman than on a man. Obviously this will not apply with a much larger than average woman or a much smaller than average man. The effects and risks of drug use are also influenced by attitudes towards men and women taking drugs. Male drug use is often seen as more acceptable than that of women. Mothers in particular, come in for a lot of criticism if they use drugs. Male drug users who are parents are not usually seen in the same way.

The setting

The place where drugs are used and what people are doing at the time can influence how dangerous it is. For example, some young people take drugs in out-of-the-way places that are particularly dangerous like canal banks, near motorways, in derelict buildings etc. Accidents are much more likely in these places, especially if the user is intoxicated. Also if anything does go wrong, it is unlikely help will be at hand or that an ambulance could easily be called.

Even if the setting is not in itself inherently dangerous there may be other types of risks associated with the place of use. Using or taking drugs into school has led to substantial numbers of young people being expelled from school with drastic effects on their future careers.

Driving a car, riding a bicycle or operating machinery while on drugs will greatly increase the risks of accidents.

Drug use can lower inhibitions, increasing the likelihood of sexual encounters. Safer sex – e.g. by using condoms – will be much more difficult if the person concerned is intoxicated. The risks of unwanted pregnancy, HIV (the virus that leads to AIDS) and other sexually transmitted infections could be increased if people have sex while high on alcohol or drugs. Surveys have found that many young people have sexual encounters while under the influence of drugs, particularly alcohol and/or cannabis.

Another setting danger is that of people over-exerting themselves when using ecstasy. Ecstasy gives a buzz of energy and is often used in clubs while dancing non-stop for long periods. In some situations people have danced for hours without a break in hot, crowded environments. They run the risk of becoming dehydrated and getting heat exhaustion. In some cases this can be very dangerous and it has led to a number of deaths.

In conclusion

There are many possible risks and dangers involved when using drugs. To fully understand potential risks and dangers you will need to think about the drug, set and setting.

In addition people may experience problems with drug use because of other people’s perceptions and responses to them. Examples include conflict in family and other personal relationships, getting thrown out of school/college or work, getting a criminal record, getting into debt to pay for drugs, violence associated with drug dealing etc.

Updated December 2022

The Effects of Drug Addiction on the Brain and Body

Signs of drug addiction, effects of drug addiction.

Drug addiction is a treatable, chronic medical disease that involves complex interactions between a person’s environment, brain circuits, genetics, and life experiences.

People with drug addictions continue to use drugs compulsively, despite the negative effects.

Substance abuse has many potential consequences, including overdose and death. Learn about the effects of drug addiction on the mind and body and treatment options that can help.

Verywell / Theresa Chiechi

Drug Abuse vs. Drug Addiction

While the terms “drug abuse” and “drug addiction” are often used interchangeably, they're different. Someone who abuses drugs uses a substance too much, too frequently, or in otherwise unhealthy ways. However, they ultimately have control over their substance use.

Someone with a drug addiction uses drugs in a way that affects many parts of their life and causes major disruptions. They can't stop using drugs, even if they want to.

The signs of drug abuse and addiction include changes in behavior, personality, and physical appearance. If you’re concerned about a loved one’s substance use, here are some of the red flags to watch out for:

Changes in school or work performance
Secretiveness
Relationship problems
Risk-taking behavior
Legal problems
Aggression
Mood swings
Changes in hobbies or friends
Sudden weight loss or gain
Unexplained odors on the body or clothing

Drug Addiction in Men and Women

Men and women are equally likely to develop drug addictions. However, men are more likely than women to use illicit drugs, die from a drug overdose, and visit an emergency room for addiction-related health reasons. Women are more susceptible to intense cravings and repeated relapses.

People can become addicted to any psychoactive ("mind-altering") substance. Common addictive substances include alcohol , tobacco ( nicotine ), stimulants, hallucinogens, and opioids .

Many of the effects of drug addiction are similar, no matter what substance someone uses. The following are some of the most common effects of drug addiction.

Effects of Drug Addiction on the Body

Drug addiction can lead to a variety of physical consequences ranging in seriousness from drowsiness to organ damage and death:

Shallow breathing
Elevated body temperature
Rapid heart rate
Increased blood pressure
Impaired coordination and slurred speech
Decreased or increased appetite
Tooth decay
Skin damage
Sexual dysfunction
Infertility
Kidney damage
Liver damage and cirrhosis
Various forms of cancer
Cardiovascular problems
Lung problems
Overdose and death

If left untreated drug addiction can lead to serious, life-altering effects on the body.

Dependence and withdrawal also affect the body:

Physical dependence : Refers to the reliance on a substance to function day to day. People can become physically dependent on a substance fairly quickly. Dependence does not always mean someone is addicted, but the longer someone uses drugs, the more likely their dependency is to become an addiction.
Withdrawal : When someone with a dependence stops using a drug, they can experience withdrawal symptoms like excessive sweating, tremors, panic, difficulty breathing, fatigue , irritability, and flu-like symptoms.

Overdose Deaths in the United States

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 100,000 people in the U.S. died from a drug overdose in 2021.

Effects of Drug Addiction on the Brain

All basic functions in the body are regulated by the brain. But, more than that, your brain is who you are. It controls how you interpret and respond to life experiences and the ways you behave as a result of undergoing those experiences.

Drugs alter important areas of the brain. When someone continues to use drugs, their health can deteriorate both psychologically and neurologically.

Some of the most common mental effects of drug addiction are:

Cognitive decline
Memory loss
Mood changes and paranoia
Poor self/impulse control
Disruption to areas of the brain controlling basic functions (heart rate, breathing, sleep, etc.)

Effects of Drug Addiction on Behavior

Psychoactive substances affect the parts of the brain that involve reward, pleasure, and risk. They produce a sense of euphoria and well-being by flooding the brain with dopamine .

This leads people to compulsively use drugs in search of another euphoric “high.” The consequences of these neurological changes can be either temporary or permanent.

Difficulty concentrating
Irritability
Angry outbursts
Lack of inhibition
Decreased pleasure/enjoyment in daily life (e.g., eating, socializing, and sex)
Hallucinations

Help Someone With Drug Addiction

If you suspect that a loved one is experiencing drug addiction, address your concerns honestly, non-confrontationally, and without judgment. Focus on building trust and maintaining an open line of communication while setting healthy boundaries to keep yourself and others safe. If you need help, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.

Effects of Drug Addiction on an Unborn Child

Drug addiction during pregnancy can cause serious negative outcomes for both mother and child, including:

Preterm birth
Maternal mortality

Drug addiction during pregnancy can lead to neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) . Essentially, the baby goes into withdrawal after birth. Symptoms of NAS differ depending on which drug has been used but can include:

Excessive crying
Sleeping and feeding issues

Children exposed to drugs before birth may go on to develop issues with behavior, attention, and thinking. It's unclear whether prenatal drug exposure continues to affect behavior and the brain beyond adolescence.

While there is no single “cure” for drug addiction, there are ways to treat it. Treatment can help you control your addiction and stay drug-free. The primary methods of treating drug addiction include:

Psychotherapy : Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or family therapy , can help someone with a drug addiction develop healthier ways of thinking and behaving.
Behavioral therapy : Common behavioral therapies for drug addiction include motivational enhancement therapy (MET) and contingency management (CM). These therapy approaches build coping skills and provide positive reinforcement.
Medication : Certain prescribed medications help to ease withdrawal symptoms. Some examples are naltrexone (for alcohol), bupropion (for nicotine), and methadone (for opioids).
Hospitalization : Some people with drug addiction might need to be hospitalized to detox from a substance before beginning long-term treatment.
Support groups : Peer support and self-help groups, such as 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous, can help people with drug addictions find support, resources, and accountability.

A combination of medication and behavioral therapy has been found to have the highest success rates in preventing relapse and promoting recovery. Forming an individualized treatment plan with your healthcare provider's help is likely to be the most effective approach.

Drug addiction is a complex, chronic medical disease that causes someone to compulsively use psychoactive substances despite the negative consequences.

Some effects of drug abuse and addiction include changes in appetite, mood, and sleep patterns. More serious health issues such as cognitive decline, major organ damage, overdose, and death are also risks. Addiction to drugs while pregnant can lead to serious outcomes for both mother and child.

Treatment for drug addiction may involve psychotherapy , medication, hospitalization, support groups, or a combination.

If you or someone you know is experiencing substance abuse or addiction, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.

American Society of Addiction Medicine. Definition of addiction .

HelpGuide.org. Drug Abuse and Addiction .

Tennessee Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services. Warning signs of drug abuse .

National Institute on Drug Abuse. Sex and gender differences in substance use .

Cleveland Clinic. Drug addiction .

National Institute on Drug Abuse. Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction Drugs and the Brain .

American Heart Association. Illegal Drugs and Heart Disease .

American Addiction Centers. Get the facts on substance abuse .

Szalavitz M, Rigg KK, Wakeman SE. Drug dependence is not addiction-and it matters . Ann Med . 2021;53(1):1989-1992. doi:10.1080/07853890.2021.1995623

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Drug overdose deaths in the U.S. top 100,000 annually .

American Psychological Association. Cognition is central to drug addiction .

National Institute on Drug Abuse. Understanding Drug Use and Addiction DrugFacts .

MedlinePlus. Neonatal abstinence syndrome .

National Institute on Drug Abuse. Treatment and recovery .

Grella CE, Stein JA. Remission from substance dependence: differences between individuals in a general population longitudinal survey who do and do not seek help . Drug and Alcohol Dependence. 2013;133(1):146-153. doi:10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2013.05.019

By Laura Dorwart Dr. Dorwart has a Ph.D. from UC San Diego and is a health journalist interested in mental health, pregnancy, and disability rights.

Essay on Dangers Of Drugs

Students are often asked to write an essay on Dangers Of Drugs in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Dangers Of Drugs

What are drugs.

Drugs are substances that can change how your body and mind work. People use drugs for many reasons, like feeling good, relaxing, or even curing sickness. But, not all drugs are good for you. Some can harm your body and mind.

Dangers to Health

Drugs can make you sick. They can hurt your brain, heart, and other important parts of your body. Some drugs can even make it hard for you to breathe or cause you to throw up. These health problems can make you very weak or even kill you.

Problems with Addiction

Drugs can make you addicted. This means you can’t stop using them, even if they are hurting you. Being addicted can make it hard to do normal things, like going to school or playing with friends.

Legal Issues

Using drugs can also get you in trouble with the law. It’s illegal to have, use, or sell many drugs. If you get caught, you could go to jail, pay a fine, or both. This can ruin your future.

250 Words Essay on Dangers Of Drugs

Drugs are substances that can change the way your body and mind work. Some drugs are legal, like medicine from a doctor or caffeine in coffee. But there are also illegal drugs, like cocaine or heroin. These illegal drugs can be very harmful.

Physical Dangers of Drugs

Drugs can harm your body in many ways. They can damage your brain, heart, and other important organs. Cocaine, for instance, can cause a heart attack even if you’re young. Some drugs can also make you addicted. This means you can’t stop using them even if they’re hurting you.

Mental Dangers of Drugs

Drugs don’t just hurt your body, they can also harm your mind. They can make you feel sad, angry, or scared for no reason. Some people see or hear things that aren’t there. These mental problems can last a long time, even after you stop taking the drug.

Social Dangers of Drugs

Drugs can ruin your life in other ways too. You might start doing badly in school or work. You might fight with your family and friends. Some people even end up without a home because they spent all their money on drugs.

Drugs can hurt you in many ways. They can harm your body, your mind, and your life. It’s important to say no to drugs to stay safe and healthy. If you or someone you know is using drugs, it’s important to get help. There are many people who want to help you live a drug-free life.

500 Words Essay on Dangers Of Drugs

The meaning of drugs, types of drugs.

There are many types of drugs. Some are legal, like alcohol and tobacco. Others are illegal, like cocaine and heroin. Some drugs are prescription medicines that people use in the wrong way.

Why People Use Drugs

People use drugs for many reasons. Some people use drugs to feel good or have fun. Others use drugs to forget their problems. Some people use drugs because their friends or family members do.

Dangers of Drug Use

Health problems.

Drugs can cause many health problems. They can damage your heart, liver, and other parts of your body. They can also make you feel sick, tired, or confused. Some drugs can even kill you.

Drugs can be very addictive. This means that you need more and more of the drug to feel the same effects. This can lead to a cycle of drug use that is hard to stop.

Problems at School and Work

Legal problems.

Using illegal drugs can get you in trouble with the law. You can be arrested and go to jail. This can make it hard to get a job or go to school in the future.

Conclusion: Stay Safe

Drugs can be very dangerous. They can cause health problems, addiction, problems at school or work, and legal problems. It is important to stay safe and avoid drug use. If you or someone you know is using drugs, it is important to get help. There are many resources available to help people who are struggling with drug use.

Remember, your health and well-being are important. Stay safe, and make smart choices about drugs.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Essay on Drug Addiction | Drug Addiction Essay for Students and Children in English

February 12, 2024 by Veerendra

Essay on Drug Addiction: Addiction refers to the harmful need to consume substances that have damaging consequences on the user. Addiction affects not just the body but also on the person’s mental health and soundness of mind. Addiction is one of the most severe health problems faced around the world and is termed as a chronic disease. A widespread disorder ranges from drugs, alcohol addiction to gambling, and even phone addiction.

You can read more Essay Writing about articles, events, people, sports, technology many more.

One of the most unfortunate yet common addictions that affect millions today is drug addiction. Also referred to as substance – use disorder, it is the addiction to substances that harm neurological functioning and a person’s behavior. The essay provides relevant information on this topic.

Long and Short Essay on Drug Addiction in English for Students and Kids

There are two essays listed below. The long essay consists of 500 words and a short essay of 200 words.

Long Essay on Drug Addiction in English 500 words

Drug addiction, also known as substance–use disorder, refers to the dangerous and excessive intake of legal and illegal drugs. This leads to many behavioral changes in the person as well as affects brain functions. Drug addiction includes abusing alcohol, cocaine, heroin, opioid, painkillers, and nicotine, among others. Drugs like these help the person feel good about themselves and induce ‘dopamine’ or the happiness hormone. As they continue to use the drug, the brain starts to increase dopamine levels, and the person demands more.

Drug addiction has severe consequences. Some of the signs include anxiety, paranoia, increased heart rate, and red eyes. They are intoxicated and unable to display proper coordination and have difficulty in remembering things. A person who is addicted cannot resist using them and unable to function correctly without ingesting them. It causes damage to the brain, their personal and professional relationships. It affects mental cognition; they are unable to make proper decisions, cannot retain information, and make poor judgments. They tend to engage in reckless activities such as stealing or driving under the influence. They also make sure that there is a constant supply and are willing to pay a lot of money even if they are unable to afford it and tend to have erratic sleep patterns.

Drug addiction also causes a person to isolate themselves and have either intense or no food cravings. They stop taking care of their hygiene. Drug addiction affects a person’s speech and experience hallucinations. They are unable to converse and communicate properly; they speak fast and are hyperactive. Those addicted have extreme mood swings. They can go from feeling happy to feeling sad quickly and are incredibly secretive. They begin to lose interest in activities they once loved. Substance abusers also undergo withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms refer to the symptoms that occur when they stop taking the drug. Some withdrawal symptoms include nausea, fatigue, and tremors. They stop and starting using again, an endless cycle that could be life-threatening. Drug addiction can be fatal if not treated timely. It can cause brain damage and seizures as well as overdose, heart diseases, respiratory problems, damage to the liver and kidneys, vomiting, lung diseases, and much more.

Though chronic, treatment is available for drug addiction. Many techniques are used, such as behavioral counseling, medication to treat the addiction, and providing treatment not just for substance abuse but also for many factors that accompany addiction such as stress, anxiety, and depression. Many devices have developed to overcome addiction. There are rehabilitation centers to help people. After treatment, there are numerous follow-ups to ensure that the cycle does not come back. The most important is having family and friends to support the effect. It will help them build confidence and come over their addiction.

The United Nations celebrates International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on the 26th of June. Drug addiction impacts millions and needs to be treated carefully to prevent further harm to the individual and letting them live a better life.

Short Essay on Drug Addiction in English 250 words

Drug addiction refers to taking substances that are harmful to our bodies. They cause changes to a person’s behavior as well. Many people take these drugs to feel happier and better about themselves. These dangerous substances make the brain produce a chemical that makes us happy, called dopamine. Producing large amounts of these causes the person to take the drug consistently.

Some of the drugs include alcohol, nicotine, and other unhealthy substances. Taking these substances can lead to many symptoms. These include unable to think correctly, cannot remember things, and unable to speak clearly. They steal and keep secrets from their close ones. Those addicted cannot sleep; they become happy and sad quickly. They stop doing the activities that they liked doing. They are not aware of their surroundings. Taking these dangerous substances can cause many health problems such as vomiting, unable to breathe, brain, and lung damage. It also affects their family, friends, and work.

Drug addiction is life-threatening. However, people with this addiction can be treated and helped with therapy, counseling, and taking medicines along with rehab centers. They do follow-ups to ensure that they never retake these drugs. They must have their family and friends to support them as they recover.

10 lines About Drug Addiction Essay in English

Drug addiction refers to taking harmful substances that affect a person’s brain functions and behavior. It involves taking legal and illegal drugs, and the person is unable to stop using them. It is also referred to as substance- use disorders
Harmful drugs include alcohol, cocaine, heroin, opioids, painkillers, nicotine, etc.
The harmful drugs cause an excessive release of dopamine or the happy hormone, which causes the person to take more.
Drug addiction can affect mental cognition, including decision making, judgments, and memory. It also causes speech problems.
It can cause anxiety paranoia and increased blood pressure. They have erratic sleep patterns and isolate themselves. It causes problems in their personal and professional relationships.
Those addicted become moody, hyperactive, and hallucinate. They also engage in reckless activities.
They experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to stop using substances. These include nausea, fatigue, and tremors.
It can have many effects on the body, such as brain damage, seizures, liver and kidney damage, respiratory and lung issues.
Treatment is available. It includes behavioral therapy, medication, rehabilitation, as well as a follow-up to prevent relapse.
The United Nations celebrates International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on the 26th of June.

Frequently Asked Questions on Drug Addiction Essay

Question 1. What is drug addiction?

Answer: Drug addiction, also known as substance – use disorder, refers to the dangerous and excessive intake of legal and illegal drugs. This leads to many behavioral changes in the person as well as affects brain functions.

Question 2. Why does drug addiction occur?

Answer: People become addicted to these drugs because they want to feel happier. The drugs cause a chemical called dopamine, which induces happiness to be released. The brain starts to increase dopamine levels, and thus the person becomes addicted to the drug to match the increasing levels.

Question 3. What is the difference between dependence and addiction?

Answer: Dependence and addiction vary. While dependence is an intense craving for the drug by the body, addiction also refers to the changes in behavior and bodily functions due to repeated use of the drug, which has severe consequences.

Question 4. Can we treat drug addiction?

Answer: Yes, drug addiction can be treated. The various treatment methods are behavioral counseling, medication, and treatment of anxiety and depression. There are rehabilitation centers available. This is followed by a check-up to prevent relapse.

Picture Dictionary
English Speech
English Slogans
English Letter Writing
English Essay Writing
English Textbook Answers
Types of Certificates
ICSE Solutions
Selina ICSE Solutions
ML Aggarwal Solutions
HSSLive Plus One
HSSLive Plus Two
Kerala SSLC
Distance Education

Home / Essay Samples / Health / Drug Abuse / Understanding Why Drugs Are Bad

Understanding Why Drugs Are Bad

Category: Health
Topic: Drug Abuse , Drugs

Pages: 2 (826 words)

Downloads: -->

Physical Health Risks

Addiction: Many drugs have the potential for addiction, leading to a compulsive need to seek and use the substance, even in the face of adverse consequences.
Overdose: Taking a large or toxic dose of a drug can lead to overdose, which can be fatal. Overdoses are a significant concern, particularly with opioids and stimulants.
Organ Damage: Some drugs, such as alcohol and cocaine, can damage vital organs, including the liver, heart, and lungs, leading to long-term health problems.
Infectious Diseases: Injecting drugs with shared needles can increase the risk of contracting infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS and hepatitis.
Respiratory Issues: Smoking drugs like tobacco and marijuana can harm the respiratory system, increasing the risk of lung cancer, chronic bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions.

Mental Health Implications

Depression: Many individuals who misuse drugs experience symptoms of depression, which can lead to a cycle of drug use as a form of self-medication.
Anxiety: Drug misuse can trigger or exacerbate anxiety disorders, making it challenging to manage stress and maintain mental well-being.
Psychosis: Some drugs, particularly hallucinogens and stimulants, can induce psychosis, characterized by hallucinations, delusions, and impaired thinking.
Cognitive Impairment: Long-term drug misuse can lead to cognitive impairments, affecting memory, attention, and decision-making abilities.
Co-occurring Disorders: Substance use disorders often co-occur with other mental health disorders, complicating treatment and recovery.

Social and Economic Consequences

Familial Disruption: Drug misuse can tear apart families, leading to strained relationships, neglect of responsibilities, and loss of custody of children.
Crime and Legal Issues: Individuals under the influence of drugs may engage in criminal activities to support their habit, leading to arrests and incarceration.
Loss of Employment: Maintaining steady employment can be challenging for individuals struggling with drug misuse, resulting in financial instability.
Community Impact: Drug abuse contributes to community issues such as drug-related violence, property crime, and increased healthcare costs.
Economic Burden: The economic burden of drug abuse includes healthcare expenses, lost productivity, and the costs associated with law enforcement and rehabilitation programs.

Gateway to Risky Behaviors

Unprotected Sex: Substance use can impair judgment and lead to risky sexual behaviors, contributing to the spread of sexually transmitted infections.
Reckless Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs is dangerous and can result in accidents, injuries, or fatalities.
Polydrug Use: Some individuals progress from one drug to another, compounding the risks associated with substance misuse.
Engagement in Criminal Activities: Drug misuse can lead individuals to commit crimes to support their habit or due to impaired decision-making.

The Societal Stigma of Addiction

Prevention and treatment.

Education: Implementing educational programs that inform individuals, especially young people, about the risks of drug misuse and the benefits of making healthy choices.
Access to Mental Health Services: Ensuring that mental health services are readily available and destigmatized, as individuals struggling with mental health issues are more vulnerable to substance misuse.
Community Support: Developing supportive communities that provide resources and social connections to individuals at risk of drug misuse.
Policy Measures: Enacting policies that regulate drug access, restrict advertising, and implement harm reduction strategies.

--> ⚠️ Remember: This essay was written and uploaded by an--> click here.

Found a great essay sample but want a unique one?

are ready to help you with your essay

You won’t be charged yet!

Cancer Essays

Physical Exercise Essays

Sleep Essays

Public Health Essays

Weight Loss Essays

Related Essays

We are glad that you like it, but you cannot copy from our website. Just insert your email and this sample will be sent to you.

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Your essay sample has been sent.

In fact, there is a way to get an original essay! Turn to our writers and order a plagiarism-free paper.

samplius.com uses cookies to offer you the best service possible.By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .--> -->