How to Identify Addiction and its Adverse Effects on Life | Online Docs

Addiction is a term that is used loosely in our society. We often hear people say that they are addicted to their phones or chocolates. But what does addiction really mean? And how does it affect our lives? This blog post will discuss addiction and its effects on our lives. We will also provide tips for identifying addiction and getting help for it.

 

Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite damaging consequences. It is considered a disease because drug use changes the biochemistry of the brain. The changes are so complex that without professional intervention it would be next to impossible to break free.

 

People addicted to drugs may be unable to control their drug use and may continue using it despite the harm it causes. Drug addiction is complex, merely thinking about it as a problem will never make it go away.

 

“Drugs change the brain in ways that make quitting hard, even for those who want to. Fortunately, researchers know more than ever about how drugs affect the brain and have found treatments that can help people recover from drug addiction and lead productive lives.”

 

Source: https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/understanding-drug-use-addiction

 

Addiction ruins our life by making us feel isolated and alone. It takes away our ability to enjoy activities that we used to love. It can cause financial problems and even lead to legal troubles. Addiction can cause health problems that, if left unattended, can take a person's life.

 

The addiction scene in India

 

It is not very different from the global scenario. A study by the National Drug Dependence Treatment Center (NDDTC) under AIIMS in 2016 showed that around 35 million people in India suffer from addiction. Of these, only about 0.06% seek professional help.

 

It is a considerable number, and it is only increasing day by day. With the easy availability of drugs and alcohol, more and more people fall prey to addiction. India's most commonly abused substances include alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, opioids, sedatives, stimulants, and inhalants.

 

That's not all, as addiction can be non-drug related also; for example, many people in India are addicted to social media, sex, and even gambling. Addiction is an extensive spectrum issue for Indian society; unfortunately, help is far from sufficient.

 

Addictive substances in India that are prolifically used:

 

As stated before, India's most commonly abused substances include alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, opioids, sedatives, stimulants, and inhalants. Let's take a more detailed look at each of these:

 

Alcohol: Alcohol is by far the most commonly abused substance in India. It is legal and readily available. It is estimated that there are about 475 million drinkers in India. Of these, about 25% are considered to be heavy drinkers.

 

Tobacco: Tobacco is another widely abused substance in India. It is estimated that there are about 275 million tobacco users in India. This includes both smokers and chewers. Tobacco use is a leading cause of cancer in India.

 

Cannabis: Cannabis is a plant that is native to India. It is widely available and used by many people. It is estimated that there are about 22 million cannabis users in India.

 

Opioids: Opioids are a group of drugs that includes heroin and prescription painkillers. They are highly addictive and can be very dangerous. It is estimated that about three million people in India use opioids.

 

Sedatives: Sedatives are a group of drugs used to help people sleep or relax. They are often prescribed by doctors but can be abused. It is estimated that there are about two million sedative users in India.

 

Stimulants:It is estimated that there are about one million stimulant users in India. Stimulants are a group of drugs that includes cocaine and methamphetamine. They are very addictive and can be dangerous.

 

Inhalants: Inhalants are a group of chemicals that people sniff or inhale to get high. They are very dangerous and can be deadly. It is estimated that there are about one million inhalant users in India.

 

These are just some of the most commonly abused substances in India. Addiction is a severe problem that affects a large number of people in India.

 

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, connect with us, we are here to help.

 

How to identify addiction early on?

 

There are many signs and symptoms of addiction. If you think that you or someone you know may be struggling with addiction, here are some signs to look out for:

 

Changes in behavior: If a person is using drugs or alcohol, they may start to act differently. They may become more withdrawn or isolate themselves from friends and family. They may also start to miss work or school or stop participating in activities they once enjoyed.

 

Changes in appearance: A person using drugs or alcohol may start to look different. They may lose weight, their skin may be unhealthy, and their eyes may be red or glassy.

 

Changes in mood: People using drugs or alcohol may seem more irritable, anxious, or depressed. They may also have sudden mood swings.

 

If you notice any of these changes in yourself or someone else, it may be a sign of addiction. If you feel like talking to someone about it we are here to listen and support you.

 

 

 

Do we have sufficient help in India to fight addiction?

 

Unfortunately, the answer is no. There are not enough resources in India to help people struggling with addiction. According to a report by the World Health Organization, there are only about 0.15 beds per 100,000 people in India for treating drug use disorders. This is far below the minimum standard of two beds per 100,000 people.

 

This lack of resources makes it difficult for people to get the help they need. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, we encourage you to reach out to us for help. We are here to support you. OnlineDocsprovides telepsychiatry services that can help you or your loved ones fight addiction. We have an impressive global talent pool that is ready to help you when you need it, with complete privacy and security.

 

What are the consequences of addiction?

 

Addiction can have many negative consequences. It can lead to physical and mental health, financial, and relationship problems, and job loss. Addition can also land a person in legal problems, such as arrest and incarceration.

 

Addiction breaks the very fiber of humanity.Addicts can seldom tell the difference between right and wrong. This is primarily because the chemicals in drugs and alcohol alter the way the brain functions. Over time, addiction can change the way our brains look and work. This can lead to problems with memory, decision-making, and judgment.

 

Addiction is a serious problem that should not be taken lightly. Mark our words; if left untreated, addiction can cause you many grave problems. Get help! Life is all about joy and making a positive impact on society.

 

Remember! Addiction not only affects the addict, but it also affects the souls of those who love them. Don't do this to yourself and those who love you.

 

Conclusion:

 

 

Life is about fighting circumstances and overcoming obstacles, addiction will surely make you lose this battle. So get up, reach out and seek help because we are here for you. You're not alone in this fight.

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