Drug addiction, also called substance use disorder, is a complex condition that affects a person’s brain and behaviour and leads to an inability to control the use of a legal or illegal drug or medicine. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs.

Substance Use Disorder is characterised by the problematic use of substances, leading to significant distress and impairment in daily life.

Types of substances consumed

Types of substances consumed by drug addicts include illegal drugs like Cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, etc. Addiction can even happen with prescribed medications like Opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, etc. apart from common substances like Alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, etc.

How drug addiction works?

A person addicted to drugs experiences difficulty in controlling substance use, despite negative consequences. They gradually have to start increasing the amounts of the substance consumed to achieve the desired effect. The person experiences cravings or a strong desire to consume the substance. A drug addict experiences physical or psychological symptoms while trying to stop or reduce substance use, which is called withdrawal.

Effects of substance use on a person’s physical health

Consuming too much of a substance can lead to overdose, which can even cause death. Chronic substance use can damage vital organs, such as the liver, kidneys, and heart. Injecting drugs can increase the risk of blood-borne infections, such as HIV and hepatitis. Substance use can lead to cardiovascular issues, including heart attacks, strokes, and arrhythmias.

Effects of drug addiction on a person’s mental health, stigma and other problems

Drug addiction can lead to mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or trauma. It can even affect our relationships leading to strained relationships, social isolation, and difficulties with daily functioning. A drug addict has to go through economic issues like financial burdens, employment problems, and potential legal consequences.

Drug addiction is often shrouded in social stigma, which can have far-reaching consequences for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. Stigma can limit opportunities for employment, education, and social participation. Stigma may also lead to social isolation, enhancing feelings of loneliness and disconnection.

How substance use disorder affects the society?

Substance use disorder is an issue which is adversely affecting the social fabric of the country. Dependence to any substance not only affects the individual’s health but also disrupts their families and the whole society. Regular consumption of various psychoactive substances leads to dependence of the individual. Some substance compounds may lead to neuro-psychiatric disorders, cardiovascular diseases, as well as accidents, suicides and violence. Hence, substance use and dependence needs to be viewed as a psycho-social-medical problem.

Can drug addiction be cured?

While the fear of judgment, rejection, or discrimination can prevent individuals from seeking treatment or disclosing their struggles, substance use disorder is a treatable condition. With the right support and treatment, individuals can recover and get back to normal life.

Drug addiction can be treated through medications, behavioral therapies (e.g., CBT, contingency management), and support groups. Treatment of drug addiction has to be customised according to individual needs, including addressing co-occurring mental health conditions. Family, friends, and peer support groups play a crucial role in recovery.

However, the process of recovery requires continuous effort, commitment, and support. It’s not a one-time event, but rather a journey of growth, self-discovery, and healing. Hope and resilience are critical components of recovery. Believing in one’s ability to recover and having a supportive network can make a significant difference.

It is to be remembered here that relapse is a common part of the recovery process, and it doesn’t mean that the treatment has failed.