Title: Drug addiction and preventive measures for drug addiction.

Name: Kashish Jain

Roll no.: 20

Class: FYBAF

Subject: Foundation Course-I

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INDEX

Sr. No. Name of the Topic Page No.

1 Introduction 3
2 Aims and Objectives 4
3 Effects of Drug Addiction 5-6
4 Ways to Prevent Drug Addiction 7
5 Causes of Drug Addiction 8-9
6 Effects of Drug Addiction 10
• On the Individual
• On the Family
• On the Society
7 Preventive Measures Against Drug Addiction 11-12
8 Drugs and Narcotics in India and their Illegal Consumptions 13-14
9 Drug Dependence 15
10 National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) 16
11 Ways to help someone struggling from drug addition 17-18
12 Conclusion 19
13 Bibliography 20

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INTRODUCTION

Drug addiction, also called substance use disorder, is a disease that affects a person's brain and
behavior and leads to an inability to control the use of a legal or illegal drug or medication.
Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. When you're
addicted, you may continue using the drug despite the harm it causes.

Drug addiction can start with experimental use of a recreational drug in social situations, and, for
some people, the drug use becomes more frequent. For others, particularly with opioids, drug
addiction begins with exposure to prescribed medications, or receiving medications from a friend
or relative who has been prescribed the medication.
The risk of addiction and how fast you become addicted varies by drug. Some drugs, such as
opioid painkillers, have a higher risk and cause addiction more quickly than others.

As time passes, you may need larger doses of the drug to get high. Soon you may need the drug
just to feel good. As your drug use increases, you may find that it's increasingly difficult to go
without the drug. Attempts to stop drug use may cause intense cravings and make you feel
physically ill (withdrawal symptoms).

You may need help from your doctor, family, friends, support groups or an organized treatment
program to overcome your drug addiction and stay drug-free.

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AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

1. To identify the short term and long term effects of the drug addiction.
2. To develop new and improved ways to prevent drug use and its consequences.
3. To identify the causes of drug addiction.
4. To know the effects of the drug addictions on the individual, on the family and on the
society.
5. To recommend ways to help someone struggling from drug addiction.

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EFFECTS OF DRUG ADDICTION

Drug misuse, abuse, and addiction can all lead to both short-term and long-term health effects.
The effects of drug abuse depend on the type of drug, any other substances that a person is using,
and their health history.

➢ Short Term Effects

Drugs are chemical compounds that affect the mind and body. The exact effects vary among
individuals and also depend on the drug, dosage, and delivery method. Using any drug, even in
moderation or according to a medical prescription, can have short-term effects.

For instance, consuming one or two servings of alcohol can lead to mild intoxication. A person
may feel relaxed, uninhibited, or sleepy.

Nicotine from cigarettes and other tobacco products raises blood pressure and increases
alertness.

Using a prescription opioid as a doctor has instructed helps relieve moderate-to-severe pain, but
opioids can also cause drowsiness, shallow breathing, and constipation.

Abusing a drug, or misusing a prescription medication, can produce other short-term effects,
such as:

• changes in appetite

• sleeplessness or insomnia

• increased heart rate

• slurred speech

• changes in cognitive ability

• a temporary sense of euphoria

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 • loss of coordination

Drug abuse can affect aspects of a person’s life beyond their physical health. People
with substance use disorder, for example, may experience:

• an inability to cease using a drug

• relationship problems

• poor work or academic performance

• difficulty maintaining personal hygiene

• noticeable changes in appearance, such as extreme weight loss

• increased impulsivity and risk-taking behaviors

• loss of interest in formerly enjoyable activities

➢ Long Term Effects

Drug abuse, especially over an extended period, can have numerous long-term health effects.
Chronic drug use can alter a person’s brain structure and function, resulting in long-term
psychological effects, such as:

• depression

• anxiety

• panic disorders

• increased aggression

• paranoia

• hallucinations

Long-term drug use can also affect a person’s memory, learning, and concentration. The long-
term physical effects of drug use vary depending on the type of drug and the duration of use.

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 WAYS TO PREVENT DRUG
ADDICTION

1. Learn to Deal with Life’s Pressures

The inability to deal with normal life pressures is
one of the major reasons that drive people to drugs
and alcohol. For many people, drug and alcohol
consumption is a way to escape the harsh realities of
life. Learning to cope with life’s pressures will go a
long way when it comes to helping people stay
away from drugs and alcohol.

2. Don’t Give in to Peer Pressure

Some people, particularly teenagers and young
adults, experiment with drugs just to portray a cool image in front of others. They do it to fit in
among their circle of friends. Some kids wrongly believe that doing drugs or consuming alcohol
will make them more acceptable and popular with other kids. Not giving into peer pressure can
and will prevent drug addiction.

3. Develop Close Family Ties

Research indicates that people who share a close relationship with their families are less likely to
become drug addicts. The guidance and support provided by the family makes it easier for a
person to deal with life pressures and stay away from all types of harmful substances. The same
is true for having a close relationship with good friends that are responsible and trustworthy.

4. Develop Healthy Habits

Eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly is another way of preventing drug and alcohol
addiction. Being healthy and active makes it easier for people to deal with life stresses. This in

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turn, reduces the temptation to rely on drugs and alcohol to deal with stress. A healthy diet and
regular exercise promotes feel good chemicals in the brain.

CAUSES OF DRUG ADDICTION

Drugs are used and abused for one of the two fundamental reasons: either to reduce pain or to
increase pleasure. The other causes of drugs addictions are explained as follows:

1. Availability of Drugs:
Availability of drugs is an important factor that causes drug addiction. If the drugs are readily
available, the potential abusers may use them or experiment them. If they like the results, they
will probably continue using them. But, if the drugs are not readily available, they would not
trouble themselves to find them. However, there are some abusers who are so enslaved to drugs
that they will go to any extent to obtain them.

2. Peer Pressure:
Peer pressure has a great impact on individuals, especially teenagers to get involved with drugs.
They take drugs to be accepted by the group, or else they may feel isolated. Drug users seek
approval for their behavior from their peers, so they often try to convince others to join in their
habit as a way of seeking acceptance.

3. Personality Traits:
Many drug abusers are essentially immature. They are unable to cope with problems, anxieties,
and frustrations in a mature and rational manner. They feel inadequate and are unable to deal
with pressures that surround them. They may be extremely passive and dependent in their
relationships with others. For them, drugs can provide a temporary source of adequacy and a
feeling of being able to cope with pressures. For some drug abusers, drugs provide a means of
escapism.

4. Curiosity:

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Some people are tempted to experience drugs out of curiosity. This is especially true among
young adults. They are generally more curious to try new things and to experience new
sensations. They want to see what effects drugs will produce. The first taste and its effects on the
user will greatly influence the individual's decision to continue taking drugs.

5. Alienation:
People require a sense of belongingness to a family, peer group, a community, or a country.
Some people feel isolated, lonely, and bored. Hence, they may take drugs to cope with such
feelings especially young adults take drugs to gain attention from their parents.

6. Hedonism:
Hedonism means the idea that pleasure is the most important thing in life. Some people are
essentially hedonistic. They take drugs to endlessly seek out pleasurable experiences.

7. Psychological Dependence:
There are some psychoactive drugs that have the power to affect or change mood, behavior, or
consciousness, of the users. These drugs activate or influence the functioning of the central
nervous system. This may create such a craving for drug to the user that he continues taking it.

8. Physical Dependence:
Physical dependence, like psychological dependence is the cause and effect of drug addiction.
When the drug abuser stops taking drugs, he may experience withdrawal symptoms such as
vomiting fever, hypertension, etc. Hence, to cope with these withdrawal symptoms, the abuser
may start taking drugs again.

9. Parental Influence:
Children of drug addicts are at a high risk of drug addiction. Children, particularly, young adults
imitate the behaviors of their parents. Hence, if parents take drugs, their children may be
influenced by them and thus, the children may also become drug addicts.

10. Sociocultural Factors:

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In some sections of society taking drugs such as charas, bhang etc. is a normal practice. People in
such a society experience a feeling of fellowship. They also have a misconception that drugs
reduce anxiety and fatigue.

EFFECTS OF DRUG
ADDICTION

On the Individual On the Family On the Society

• Effects on the Individual

Drug addicts may develop physical as well as psychological dependence on drugs. Sudden
abstinence of drugs may result in withdrawal symptoms such as vomiting, muscle cramps,
convulsions, and delirium. Constantly increasing amounts of drugs are more harmful to the
individual. Some drugs are injected directly into veins. This increases the risk of contracting
AIDS, other sexually transmitted diseases, and some types of hepatitis. Many individuals die as a
direct or indirect result of drug abuse.
• Effects on the Family
Drug abuse can strain family relationships. It can lead to marital problems and poor work
performance or dismissal. This affects the family psychologically as well as financially, resulting
too often in family breakdown. When any member of a family abuses drugs - be it a parent,
children, or other relative - it causes disruption and disharmony within the family and every
member of the family suffers.
• Effects on Society
Drug abuse affects society in many ways. In the workplace, it is costly in terms of loss of time
and efficiency. Drug users are more likely than non-users to have occupational accidents,
endangering themselves and those them. Drug abusers increase health-care costs due to health-

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related dangers caused by drug abuse. Drug addicts are often related with prostitution, crime, and
accidents. They may go to any extent to obtain money for drugs.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES AGAINST DRUG ADDICTION

The following preventive measures should be taken against drug addiction:

1. Awareness and Education:

Drug education is an important tool in preventing drug abuse. Proper education helps in creating
awareness of the dangers connected with drug abuse. Drug abuse education should be integrated
in school and college curricula, emphasizing on the destructive effects of drug use. Proper
education should be imparted to parents in preventing the use of drugs by children. Mass media
plays a crucial role for communicating accurate information about drug abuse to a large
population.

2. Organizing Youth Centers:

Drug addiction may be caused due to the feelings of isolation, loneliness, anxiety, and boredom.
Hence, social service organizations, and NGOs should establish youth centers to overcome such
feelings. Youth centers enable the youngsters to:
• Get along freely with others.
• Share their problems.
• Entertain them.
This enables the youngsters to direct their energies in constructive ways.

3. Strict Action against Drug Pushers:

Drug addiction is often related with prostitution, crime, accidents and violent behavior. Hence,
strict action should be taken not only against drug pushers but also against drug addicts. There
should be stringent laws and severe punishment for drug traffickers and for drug abusers. This
will result in remarkable success in reducing problems relating to drug trafficking and drug
abuse.

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 4. Counseling Centers:
Counseling centers can be set up by educational institute’s community centers, and NGOs for:

• Individuals who do not use any drugs.

• Individuals who are at an increased risk of drug abuse.
• Individuals who are drug abusers.
Counseling centers may help to:
• Reduce drug abuse.
• Improve the person's ability to perform better.
• Reduce drug menace, etc.

5. Watching for Early Signs of Possible Drug Addiction:

If the early signs and symptoms of drug-taking can be detected, drug addiction may be
prevented. Some of the common signs and symptoms are:
• Loss of appetite.
• Sudden change of friends.
• Withdrawal from family.
• Poor work/academic performance etc.

6. International Help:
United Nations Fund for Drug Abuse Control (UNFDAC) provides assistance to governments
and international organizations to
• Prevent drug abuse through education and public information campaigns.
• Provide facilities and develop methods for treatment, and rehabilitation of drug-
dependent persons.
• Conduct research on drug abuse and its control.

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DRUGS AND NARCOTICS IN INDIA AND THEIR ILLEGAL
CONSUMPTION

Substances Act, (NDPS Act) in 1985 India took a step towards the eradicating this fast growing
problem which has been known to consume nations like Mexico and even the United States of
America. With the help of this Act and its further amendments as per the needs of the society in
2001 and 2014, India has been very stringent on anti-drug petitions and has been persistent in the
imposition of firm punishments for drug trafficking and drug endorsements.

Under Section 2(1){a} of the Drugs (Control) Act, 1950 the definition of a drug dealer has been
provided as given below:- A dealer means a person carrying on, either personally or through any
other person, the business of selling any drugs, whether wholesale or retail.

The NDPS Act, 1985 and the Punishments imposed

The NDPS Act however does not hold back on its vigilance and punishments related to illegal
trafficking and distribution of drugs through denial and criminalization of the production,
cultivation, possession, sale, use, purchase, import, export and the consumption of narcotic drugs
and psychotropic substances. However, the only time the Act provides any leniency is when the
drugs are to be used for any medical purposes or for scientific research, which is duly approved
by the requisite authorities beforehand.

The NDPS Act further appeared to conceive strict punishments for drug trafficking, to expand
implementational powers and to implement international conventions which India is associated
with and also to direct psychotropic substances and regulate their usage. This is a predominantly
reformatory statute since it primarily furnishes the regulation of drugs. This statute also provides
for capital punishment which can be granted as a form of punishment under the Act directly. The
amendment of 2014 further held that the decision to grant capital punishment lies at the
discretion of the court and it instead stipulates 30 years of detainment as a substitute for capital
punishment.

With a specific end goal to supplement the NDPS Act, the Prevention of Illicit Trafficking in
Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act came into existence in 1988. It contains

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provisions relating to the preventive detention of any and each person who is associated with or
accused of drug trafficking.

Drug Law Enforcement Agencies in India

Following are the primary drug enforcement agencies in India:

• The Narcotics Control Division

• The Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN)

• The Narcotic Control Bureau (NCB )

• Other Agencies like the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, Central Bureau of

Investigation, Customs Commission, and Border Security Force.

Legislative Policies in India in Drug Related Matters

The legislative policies over drug related matters are broad and many and are thus covered
within the following three Central Acts:

• The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985.

• Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1988.

• Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.

The NDPS Act does not provide for any leniency in drug related offences as it considers them to
be highly serious an dangerous in nature and thus, the punishments for them are very strict
within this Act. Furthermore, the offenses under this Act are cognizable and non-bailable.
The quantum of sentence and fine differs with the offense. For most of the offenses, the
punishment completely relies upon the quantity of drug included which could be a little amount,
more than a little, however not as much as the business amount or business amount of drugs
which is dealt in. Commercial and small amounts are notified for each drug nevertheless.
Under this Act, criminal conspiracy, abetment and even attempt to carry out an offense draw the
same punishment as the offense itself. The habitual or repeat of such offenses attracts 1 and half
times the punishment and capital punishment as well in some cases.

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Because the punishments provided within this Act can be rigid and inflexible, a few procedural
safeguards have been provided within this Act. A few immunities are additionally accessible
under the Act.

DRUG DEPENDENCE

Drug dependence occurs when you need one or more drugs to function. There are two types of
drug dependence:

Physical Dependence
When most people think of physical addiction, they are usually attributing it to the thought of the
physical withdrawal symptoms that occur when someone stops giving their body the substance
they have been using regularly.

Once a person begins using on a daily or regular basis, the body becomes dependent on that
drug. This means the cells can’t function the way they have been without the drug they have
become accustomed to. As a result, painful withdrawal symptoms set in, causing most people to
reach for the drug to make the pain go away.

Withdrawal symptoms can include:

• Nausea.
• Diarrhea.
• Body aches.
• The chills or shakes.
• Delirium Tremens (DTS)

Psychological Dependence
The psychological side of addiction represents the compulsion of the mind to drink or use based
on a perceived need the substance fills. This facet of addiction can occur even if the person
doesn’t display physical dependency symptoms.

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Psychological addiction is when a person is emotionally tied to a drug based on a mental desire
for it. This is very common for people who use drugs that may not cause severe withdrawal
symptoms when they aren’t using.

NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON DRUG ABUSE (NIDA)

The mission of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) is to advance science on the causes
and consequences of drug use and addiction and to apply that knowledge to improve individual
and public health. In this regard, NIDA addresses the most fundamental and essential questions
about drug abuse — from detecting and responding to emerging drug abuse trends and
understanding how drugs work in the brain and body, to developing and testing new approaches
to treatment and prevention. NIDA also supports research training, career development, public
education, public-private partnerships, and research dissemination efforts. Through its Intramural
Research Program, as well as grants and contracts to investigators at research institutions around
the country and overseas, NIDA supports research to:

• Identify the biological, environmental, behavioral and social causes and consequences of
drug use and addiction across the lifespan;

• Develop improved strategies to prevent drug use and its consequences;

• Develop new and improved treatments to help people with substance use disorders
achieve and maintain a meaningful and sustained recovery;

• Increase the public health impact of NIDA research and programs

In line with these goals, NIDA works to ensure that the following cross-cutting themes are
addressed across institute programs and initiatives:

• advancing basic research on neuroscience and biology

• leveraging technology

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 • driving innovation

• increasing scientific rigor and reproducibility

• building a strong, diverse, multidisciplinary scientific workforce

• promoting collaboration

WAYS TO HELP SOMEONE STRUGGLING FROM DRUG ADDICTION

Helping a friend who is struggling with drug addiction is not easy. It is often difficult to initiate a
conversation about their substance abuse. Here are some easy ways to help begin the process and
get your friend the treatment they need.

Educate Yourself about Signs of Addiction

People with addiction can exhibit a range of symptoms. Behavior, physical appearance, and
social interactions can provide clues as to whether one might be addicted to drugs or alcohol.
Although specific symptoms can vary according to the individual and the substance being
abused, if you suspect a friend is battling addiction, some common signs to look out for include
Behavioral Symptoms:
• Mood swings
• Anxiety
• Irritability and agitation
• Lack of motivation
• Neglected responsibilities
• Loss of interest in school, work, or hobbies
• Poor performance in school or work
• Self-isolation
• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Lack of concern for appearance and hygiene
• Stealing or selling possessions to buy drugs
• Risky behavior (such as drunk driving)
• Preoccupation with obtaining drugs

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 Physical Symptoms:
• Unexplained weight loss or weight gain
• Sleeping problems
• Nausea and vomiting
• Excessive sweating
• Tremors
• Bloodshot eyes
• Pupils that are smaller or larger than normal
• Bloody or runny nose
• Frequent nosebleeds
• Slurred speech
• Impaired coordination
Social Symptoms and Other Clues:
• Legal issues
• Financial difficulties
• Socializing with others who abuse drugs
• Drug paraphernalia (spoons, syringes, pipes)

Have a Conversation and Encourage Treatment

It is important to talk to your friend about their substance abuse problem. It is recommended to
initiate a conversation when they are not under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If they are not
sober during the discussion, they are less likely to be understanding of the matter. It’s also
recommended to meet in a neutral place and to talk for more than a few minutes.

Offer Love and Support

Many people struggling with addiction do not realize how much their family and friends love
them. Be loving and supportive and let them know that you’re going to support them throughout
their journey to recovery.

Group Intervention May be the Way to Go

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If an addicted person is reluctant to seek help, sometimes they can be persuaded through an
intervention. This is when family members, friends, and associates come together out of concern
and love to confront their friend and encourage them to get help. Consultation with an addiction
professional can help you organize an effective intervention for your friend, allowing you to
convey the message that the only choice is to accept help and begin the road to recovery.

CONCLUSION

Drug addiction, or substance use disorder, is a brain disease. The drugs affect your brain, making
it difficult to stop taking the drugs, even if you want to. The first step to drug addiction treatment
is seeing the problem and deciding to get help. Drug misuse, abuse, and addiction can all lead to
both short-term and long-term health effects. The effects of drug abuse depend on the type of
drug, any other substances that a person is using, and their health history. Drugs are used and
abused for one of the two fundamental reasons: either to reduce pain or to increase pleasure.
Drugs addiction does not only affect one individual but it also affects the family and society in
many ways. If one wants to get free from the addictions there are many ways which can help a
person. Preventive measures could be taken on time to get rid of the addiction. Friends and
family can help there close one who is suffering from addiction by giving proper guidance and
support.

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BIBLIOGRAPHY

Websites:

https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/drug-addiction/related-topics/psychological-physical-
addiction/

https://www.helplinelaw.com/national-and-social/DNITI/drugs-and-narcotics-in-india-and-their-
illegal-consumption.html

https://www.inspiremalibu.com/blog/drug-addiction/4-ways-to-prevent-drug-addiction/

https://americanaddictioncenters.org/guide-for-families-i/help-a-friend-struggling-with-addiction

Books:

Foundation Course-I – Manan Prakashan

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