Discussion Post #3: Drugs

 It is evident that drugs can change behavior and that drug addiction consumes many lives. We learned about the several types of psychoactive drugs: caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, opiates, cannabis, and cocaine. Alcohol and opiates can cause people to feel calm and relaxed. However, as most of us know the disadvantages of alcohol and opiates are poor coordination, slurred speech, and slow breathing. Cannabis is another widely used drug that causes relaxation and alters memory.

To focus on opiates specifically, I had previous knowledge of the detrimental effects of opioids because I found out that a family member of mine was using them. There are many causes of opioid addiction. It could be from prescription drug use, childhood neglect or abuse, genetics, family history of substance abuse, living in poverty, etc. Many people become addicted to opioids due to being prescribed them for an injury. In the past, this was more of an issue due to doctors prescribing them more often, but this problem is still very prevalent today. People with opioid addiction often experience shame and guilt, as with any other addiction. It can strain the relationships with those around you, and cause individuals to blame themselves for the state they are in.

With any drug, there can be withdrawal effects, the unpleasant results that follow with refraining from any use of the drug that they were once physically dependent on. Common symptoms of drug withdrawal can be nausea, vomiting, headaches, depression, anxiety, or irritability. Withdrawal is not the same for every person and can exhibit several consequences. However, I chose this topic because it is so important to be mindful of others struggling with addiction. Addiction to drugs can be life-threatening and negatively impacts millions of people all over the world. 

Below is a video that illustrates a great example of what drugs and addiction can do to our bodies.