Drug abuse

In this chapter, we discuss about the drug abuse, causes, effects, and preventive measures of drug abuse. Grade 8 Social Studies, Reference Notes.

Drug abuse

Drugs are substances that bring about changes in the functioning of cells in the human body. There are various kinds of drugs, such as opium, heroin, cocaine, hashish, bhang, etc. Some drugs act as a stimulant and some act as depressants. Due to this, functions of heart, lungs, liver, intestines, kidneys, eyes and other body organs are debilitated.
Drug abuse is a serious problem. It is both an individual and a social problem. It is usually found in teenagers. Many school students are habituated to the drug. Some sportsmen also take drugs. Drug trafficking has become a prosperous international trade. The drug is mostly taken for pleasure. Some teenagers take drugs due to peer pressure and curiosity. Some people become hopeless about their failure and start taking drugs. Some people are confronted with life due to failure and so they begin using drugs. But traffickers are the greatest culprit. In order to make money, they trap the young people. 

Causes of Drug abuse:

1. Peer pressure
2. To reduce anger, anxiety
3. Not getting love, affection from parents, community etc.
4. Broken home
5. Strong network of drug dealers
6. Influence of advertisement, movies, etc.

Effects of Drugs are:

1. Social isolation
2. Development of physical dependency
3. Chance of infertility
4. Nausea and vomiting
5. Loss of appetite, loss of weight and loss of memory power
6. Reduction in body immunity power
7. Intoxicated and high chance of accident
8. Effect on reproductive health and infertility
9. Socio-economic crimes and problems

Preventive measures are:

1. Develop strong will power to say no to drug and avoid including drug user in your friend circle.
2. Drug trafficking must be strictly controlled.
3. The good family relationship should be maintained.
4. During leisure, one should get involve in recreational activities.
5. Law and regulations on drugs should be enforced strictly.
6. Strong awareness campaigns against the drug can be useful to prevent drug addict.