Drug abuse is the misuse of mind-altering substances like illicit and prescription drugs. It affects not only the drug abuser, but entire families, often leading to long-term emotional and financial problems. The physical and psychological consequences of drug abuse may differ greatly depending on a person's drug of choice. Understanding the nature of drug abuse allows families to find help and prevent secondary problems like child abuse and lasting emotional damage.
Types
The word "drug" is an extremely broad term that encompasses many different substances. Drugs are categorized according to their chemical structure and physiological effects, with the most common types being stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens and marijuana. Drug abuse can have different effects depending on the number of family members who use and the extent of abuse or addiction. Multiple drugs may be used at a given time, and abuse can be either open or discreet. When abuse leads to a physical or psychological need to continue using, it is considered addiction.
Signs and Symptoms
The signs of drug abuse vary greatly depending on the substance in question. According to Mayo Clinic, problems at school, neglected hygiene and appearance and physical health problems are common signs of teenage drug abuse. Changes in mood, behavior and daily habits are other hallmark signs of drug abuse in both teens and adults. Mood swings, changes in eating or sleeping patterns and the presence of drug paraphernalia like plastic baggies, syringes or rolling papers are often telltale signs of drug use.
Effects
Drug abuse hurts families in a number of ways. Emotional effects such as guilt, shame, sadness and anger are common among kids whose parents abuse drugs. Health consequences can also occur with prolonged drug abuse, some of which include cardiovascular problems, neurological impairment and organ damage. In addition to the emotional harm it inflicts on families, drug abuse often takes a large toll on finances as well. According to J Rank.org, drug-abusing parents often spend money allocated for food, clothes, mortgage and bills on their drug habit.
Prevention/Solution
The best prevention against drug abuse and addiction is complete abstinence from drug use. Prevention programs that utilize media resources, community leaders, educators and parents can help influence kids and teens to avoid drug use. Many treatment programs exist to help families affected by drug abuse. Inpatient rehabilitation programs, detoxification centers and family-oriented support groups provide a safe environment for dealing with the emotional and physical issues that accompany drug abuse and addiction.
Considerations
Parental drug abuse can have wide-reaching secondary effects on children. According to Child Abuse.com, some 40 percent of all child abuse cases involve the abuse of alcohol and other drugs. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry states that children of alcoholics are also four times more likely to develop substance abuse problems than their peers, making early intervention and treatment vital.
