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Drug abuse poses a significant problem in North America, costing Canada over $46 billion as of 2017, with 47,000 deaths annually linked to it (Addictionhelp.com). This article delves into the definition of addiction and addictive drugs and discusses five commonly used drugs. Additionally, it covers risk factors for addiction, treatment options, and information on Ashton College's Mental Health and Drug Addiction program.
Drug addiction, also known as substance use problems or substance dependence, is described by CAMH as a primary, chronic, neurobiological disease influenced by genetic, psychosocial, and environmental factors. The presence of the four C's characterizes addiction: Craving, Loss of Control, Compulsion to use, and Use despite Consequences.
Approximately 21% of Canadians will experience addiction throughout their lifetime (Addictionhelp.com). Notably, legal substances like alcohol and nicotine contribute to over 2/3 of the costs related to substance abuse, while only 3% of Canadians report using illegal drugs. However, underreporting is likely due to stigma and criminalization. Youth aged 15-24 represent 60% of illegal drug users, and the risk of premature death due to drug use is 54% higher in females than males.
Drugs, often used recreationally, can lead to addiction based on factors like frequency, quantity, age, and overall health. CAMH categorizes drugs into stimulants and depressants, with prolonged use resulting in tolerance, necessitating larger amounts for the desired effect or to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Various factors contribute to drug addiction, including the reward and pleasure derived from drugs releasing dopamine in the brain. People may turn to drugs to numb emotions and escape reality due to life problems, mental health issues, or traumatic experiences. Environmental and genetic factors also play significant roles, with stigma and criminalization hindering the ability to seek help.
Drug side effects vary in severity and can be physical, mental, or social. Physical effects include injuries, long-term health issues, overdose, and death. Mental effects encompass depression, irritability, anxiety, blackouts, self-harm, and suicide. Social consequences involve relationship issues, legal problems, poverty, and homelessness.
Various methods exist for overcoming drug addiction, ranging from self-help strategies to in-patient care and medications. Ashton College's Mental Health and Addictions Support Worker Certificate program offers comprehensive training for those seeking to assist individuals struggling with addiction.
Ashton College's Mental Health and Addictions Support Worker Certificate program provides entry-level competencies for employment in mental health and addictions. Internationally accredited, the program covers theories explaining mental health problems, risk reduction, client interaction, and key processes such as treatment planning and counseling. Flexible scheduling options, synchronous and asynchronous components, and real-time interaction make it an ideal choice for aspiring mental health professionals.
For more information on Ashton College's program, visit: https://www.ashtoncollege.ca/programs/mental-health-and-addictions-support-worker-certificate/
The information contained in this post is considered true and accurate as of the publication date. However, the accuracy of this information may be impacted by changes in circumstances that occur after the time of publication. Ashton College assumes no liability for any error or omissions in the information contained in this post or any other post in our blog.
