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Substance abuse

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Contents:

Definition of substance abuse
Causes of substance abuse - factors, behaviours, surroundings
The consequences of substance abuse - short term and long term (especially for young adults)
Prevention of substance abuse: intro to our campaign: noticing signs of substance abuse earlier on

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What is substance abuse?

This includes alcoholic drinks, illegal drugs, prescription medicines, various solvents

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Causes of substance abuse

ENVIRONMENTAL and SOCIAL FACTORS - peer pressure, family situation, trauma and neglect
GENETIC DISPOSITION - more likely to develop a drug addiction
MENTAL HEALTH - 60% of young people treated for substance abuse also had other mental health problems and emotional stressors

Peer group that encourages substance abuse

Family situation - family members abuse substances or they have certain attitudes towards that which affects the individual’s thinking towards the problem

Trauma - going through traumatic experiences, especially as a child, has several troubling effects on our brain development

Genetic disposition - even though there is a correlation between the two, meaning that children of substance abusers are more likely to develop this problem themselves, it is really unlikely that substance abuse is developed from only this factor, so it’s difficult to make assumptions about this.

Mental health - 60% od young people treated for substance abuse also had mental health problems. If you’re under a lot of stress, you’re more vulnerable to becoming addicted

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Stages of substance abuse

Experimentation
Regular use
High risk
Addiction

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Consequences of substance abuse:

Physical effects:

Sleep disturbances
Unintended weight gain or loss
Chronic fatigue
Sinus issues or watery eyes
Digestive concerns
Skin rashes or breakouts
Dental decay
Heart and/or circulation problems
Organ damage or failure

Mental effects

Poor decision-making abilities
Inability to concentrate or focus
Confusion and disorientation
Memory loss
Powerful cravings for your substance of choice

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How to speak to someone when they’re under influence

IT’S IMPORTANT TO PROTECT YOURSELF!

Aggression is not a common side effect, but it can still happen

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Speak calmly

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Open body stance

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Give them space

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Listen to them; show understanding and compassion

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Our campaign:

Studies show children who are exposed to a parent with SUDs are more likely to develop SUD symptoms themselves
“if a child were to drink only once or twice, they have a greater chance of becoming addicted than a child whose parents did not struggle with addiction in the past.”
Resist the urge to start the change.

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Resist the temptation.

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Links to visit if you need help:

A GP is a good place to start. They can discuss your problems with you and get you into treatment.

Narcotics anonymous:

https://ukna.org/

Call the Frank drugs helpline on 0300 123 6600. They can talk you through all your options.

As well as the NHS, there are charities and private drug and alcohol treatment organisations that can help you.

Visit the Adfam website to see a list of useful organisations.
https://adfam.org.uk/help-for-families/useful-organisations

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Kahoot time!

https://play.kahoot.it/v2/lobby?quizId=0adaad0f-9918-498e-91a0-33cdee8fe7cc