Drugs And Alcoholism

Essay by PaperNerd ContributorCollege, Undergraduate July 2001

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Drugs and Alcoholism Drugs and Alcoholism is a big issue today in the world. Many adults partake in drinking and drug abuse. The rate of young adults and children that use drugs and alcohol has been rising for quite sometime. Chemical dependency is a condition, which affects the lives of many people physically, mentally and emotionally. In a vulnerable individual the condition is characterized by a loss of control in normal life situations, escalating eventually to total physical dependence on a chemical or other substance. Because this dependence can have such far-reaching effects on the quality of life for both the dependent person and those around them, it is very important that the condition is recognized and treated as early as possible. This can limit the extent of the damage caused, which in severe cases, can lead to the inability to lead a normal, healthy or productive life on any level.

There are many types of drugs. Some of the drugs used today are alcohol, inhalants, hallucinogens, tobacco, cocaine, depressants, narcotics, designer drugs, and anabolic steroids. Alcohol consumption causes a number of changes in behavior. Even low doses significantly impair the judgment and coordination required to drive a car safely. Low to moderate doses of alcohol can increase the incidence of a variety of aggressive acts, including spouse and child abuse. Moderate to high doses of alcohol cause marked impairments in higher mental functions, severely altering a person's ability to learn and remember information. Very high doses cause respiratory depression and death. Continued use of alcohol can lead to dependence. Sudden cessation of alcohol intake is likely to produce withdrawal symptoms, including severe anxiety, tremors, hallucinations, and convulsions. Long-term effects of consuming large quantities of alcohol, especially when combined with poor nutrition, can lead to permanent damage to vital organs...