What is Drug Abuse?
According to the NHS, Drug Abuse refers to the habitual, excessive, or harmful use of psychoactive substances.
This includes both legal and illegal drugs. Drug abuse involves consuming these substances in a way that deviates
from prescribed or socially acceptable patterns, which can lead to negative physical, psychological, and social consequences.
Drug abuse can be characterised by:
- A lack of control over drug intake
- Continued use despite adverse effects
- The prioritisation of drug-seeking behaviour over personal
- Professional, or social responsibilities.
Drug abuse does not only impact the person using drugs. It can also affect families, communities, and society as a whole.
Recognising the signs of drug abuse is crucial for early intervention and implementing appropriate treatment strategies
to address the challenges associated with drug misuse (NHS 2024).
Signs of drug abuse
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Behavioural symptoms:
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Physical symptoms
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- Increased aggression or irritability
- Changes in relationships and family dynamics
- Changes in attitude and mood
- Social withdrawal
- Emotional withdrawal
- Decrease in academic performance
- Decline in mental sharpness
- Secrecy and deception
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- Dilated or constricted pupils
- Bloodshot eyes
- Abrupt weight changes
- Sleeping difficulties
- Body odour
- Neglected hygiene
- Signs of oral decay
- Muscle weakness
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