Back to: Jss2 Social Studies (NVE)

Introduction

Drug abuse is a serious and complex problem that affects individuals and communities worldwide. It refers to the habitual and excessive consumption of drugs or other substances, including both legal and illegal drugs, in a way that can cause harm to the user’s physical and mental health, as well as their social and economic well-being. Drug abuse can lead to addiction, a chronic and relapsing disease that alters the brain’s reward, motivation, and memory circuits. It can also result in a range of negative consequences, including impaired judgment, increased risk of accidents and injuries, legal problems, family conflicts, and loss of productivity. Understanding the causes, risk factors, and consequences of drug abuse is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Meaning of Drug abuse

Drug abuse refers to taking drugs in a manner that is not consistent with the prescribed medical use, or using drugs that are illegal or not medically recommended. The consequences of drug abuse can be severe and long-lasting, affecting not just the physical and mental health of the individual, but also their relationships, work, and overall quality of life.

Forms of Drug Abuse

1. Taking medication that has not been prescribed by a doctor.
2. Consuming too much of a medication that has been prescribed, leads to an overdose.
3. Using illegal drugs, such as marijuana, heroin, cocaine, and others.
4. Consuming excessive amounts of legal substances, such as alcohol, kola-nut, coffee, and pain-relieving tablets.
5. Continuously using drugs even when it is not necessary.
6. Becoming dependent on sleep-inducing medications, leads to an ongoing need for them in order to fall asleep.

Causes of Drug Abuse

1. Peer influence: Being in close proximity to individuals who use drugs such as marijuana and cocaine can lead to temptation and eventually the adoption of the harmful habit.
2. Coping with psychological issues: Some people turn to excessive drinking, smoking, or using drugs as a way to cope with negative emotions such as sadness, anxiety, and frustration.
3. Seeking confidence: Some individuals believe that drug use will give them the courage to face difficult situations and people.
4. Accessibility: Easy access to drugs increases the likelihood of drug abuse, especially for those with access to marijuana and hard drugs.
5. Staying awake: The need to stay awake, such as students who need to study for exams, can lead to the abuse of substances such as kola-nut.
6. Financial difficulties: Those who are struggling financially may turn to self-medicating instead of seeking medical attention from a doctor, due to the cost associated with medical consultations.
7. Genetics: There is a strong genetic component to drug addiction and some individuals may be predisposed to substance abuse.
8. Trauma and abuse: Past experiences of trauma or abuse can lead to self-medicating and drug abuse as a way of coping with emotional pain.
9. Lack of education and awareness: Individuals who lack education and understanding about the dangers of drug use are more susceptible to drug abuse.
10. Peer pressure: Peer pressure can be a strong influence in pushing individuals to try drugs and eventually become addicted. This is particularly prevalent among young people.

Effects and Consequences of Drug Abuse

1. Mental Illness: A condition that affects a person’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviours and can interfere with their daily life and functioning.
2. Death: The permanent end of all biological functions that sustain a living organism.
3. Broken Home: A household that has undergone separation or divorce, often leading to emotional and psychological distress for family members, particularly children.
4. Unemployment: The state of being without a paid job, especially due to economic conditions or lack of job opportunities.
5. Unusual Behavior: Conduct or actions that deviate from what is considered normal or typical, and can be a sign of a mental health issue or other underlying problems.
6. Addiction: A chronic and relapsing condition characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite harmful consequences.
7. Poverty: The state of being unable to afford basic necessities such as food, clothing, and shelter due to a lack of financial resources.
8. Domestic Violence: Physical, sexual, or psychological abuse that occurs within the context of an intimate relationship.
9. Disabilities: A physical or mental condition that limits a person’s movements, senses, or activities.
10. Racism: The belief in the superiority of one race over another, leading to discrimination and prejudice against individuals based on their race.

Effects of Drug Abuse on The Family and Society

1. Drunken and drug-fueled road crashes: Unfortunately, many road accidents happen when drivers are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These substances impair their judgment and reaction time, making it dangerous for them to operate a vehicle.
2. Neglecting family duties: Drug addiction often leads to a neglect of responsibilities within a family, particularly financial responsibilities. This is because individuals may spend all their money on drugs, leaving them unable to fulfil their duties and obligations at home
3. Financial burden: Substance abuse can lead to financial difficulties for families, as the cost of purchasing drugs or alcohol can add up over time and cause strain on household finances.
4. Domestic violence: Substance abuse can lead to violent behaviour and domestic violence, putting family members at risk of physical harm.
5. Child abuse and neglect: Substance abuse can impair a parent’s ability to provide adequate care for their children, potentially leading to child abuse or neglect.
6. Decreased productivity: Substance abuse can lead to decreased work performance, job loss, and financial instability, affecting not only the individual but their family as well.
7. Mental health problems: Substance abuse can exacerbate existing mental health issues and lead to the development of new ones, putting additional stress on the family.
8. Legal issues: Substance abuse can result in criminal behaviour and legal problems, potentially leading to imprisonment and further strain on the family.
9. Stigma and shame: Substance abuse is often stigmatized, leading to shame and isolation for the individual and their family.
10. Strained relationships: Substance abuse can strain relationships within the family, causing conflict and damaging family dynamics.
11. Health problems: Substance abuse can lead to a range of physical health problems, including addiction, liver disease, and overdose, affecting the health of the individual and potentially requiring costly medical treatment.
12. Social problems: Substance abuse can contribute to a range of social problems, including homelessness, poverty, and crime, affecting not only the individual but the broader community and society as well.

Solution to Drug Abuse

Drug abuse can be prevented in the following ways

4. The school curriculum: The government’s decision to include the topic of drug abuse in the primary and secondary school curriculum is a positive step. It helps raise awareness among school children about the dangers of drug abuse and its potential impact on their futures.
5. Family awareness: By providing information to parents through mass media, they can become more informed about drug abuse and its effects. This will enable them to educate their children and advise them against it.
6. Public enlightenment programs: The government should step up its efforts to educate parents and young people about the dangers of drug abuse. This can be done by visiting schools, reaching out to adults through handbills, posters, billboards, and electronic media programs.
7. Schools: School administrators should periodically educate students on the subject of drug abuse. Special talks and presentations should be organized, where experts can be invited to share their knowledge and help raise awareness among students.
8. Community involvement: The community can play a vital role in preventing drug abuse by providing support and resources to those affected. Community organizations and leaders can organize public meetings and workshops to raise awareness and provide information on drug abuse and its consequences.
9. Peer education: Young people can be empowered to educate their peers about the dangers of drug abuse. This can be done through school programs and youth groups, where they can share their experiences and knowledge with others.
10. Health education: The importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and avoiding drugs can be emphasized through health education programs in schools. This will help young people understand the link between their physical and mental well-being and drug use.
11. Law enforcement: The government can strengthen its enforcement of drug laws to reduce the availability of drugs in communities. Law enforcement agencies can also collaborate with schools and community organizations to raise awareness and educate young people about the dangers of drug abuse.
12. Rehabilitation and treatment: Resources should be made available for those who are struggling with drug addiction to access rehabilitation and treatment services. This will help them