Substance abuse - Research Paper Example

It shall also discuss how substance abuse can be solved using various social controls. Finally, this study shall also explain the potential social or economic benefits which may result if the recommended changes were to be implemented. This study is being carried out in order to establish a clear and comprehensive understanding of substance abuse as it applies in the workplace. Discussion According to the World Health Organization (2011), substance abuse “refers to the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs”.

Use of psychoactive substances can lead to dependence syndrome which includes various behavioral, cognitive, and physiological symptoms apparent with the persistent use of the substance. Aside from these symptoms, the user has a persistent need to use the substance and a difficulty in controlling the use of the drug even with the appearance of negative consequences (WHO, 2011). Moreover, after repeated use, there is a tolerance developed for the substance and the failure to use it often causes symptoms of physical withdrawal.

Such symptoms manifest with unfavorable outcomes for the user. Depending on the drug or “substance” of choice, substance abuse can have both positive and negative effects on one’s physiology and psychopathy. First and foremost tobacco brings about feelings of pleasure; it improves performance, and it helps in weight control. It also reduces feelings of hunger and depression (Daly, 2011). However, the nicotine content of cigarettes is addictive; moreover, cigarette smoke causes health hazards like lung cancer, heart disease, peptic ulcer disease, and eventually for some, strokes.

Another substance, alcohol serves as a “pick me up” for many users (Daly, 2011). However, it is actually a depressant as it decreases inhibitions, reduces muscle control, and slurs speech. Excessive use of this substance is likely to cause liver failure, heart disease, and cancers of the esophagus, pancreas, and the stomach (Daly, 2011). Drugs and similar substances cause various effects on the user. Marijuana, for example, creates feelings of pleasure and relaxation; however it can also cause impaired coordination and memory (Daly, 2011).

Cocaine causes pleasure and increases one’s alertness; however, it can also lead to paranoia, heart attacks, as well as brain, kidney, and heart damage. Heroin causes feelings of drowsiness, pleasure, and reduced breathing rate; however, abuse of the drug can cause death and trigger complications with the use of dirty needles, complications like destruction of the heart valves, abdominal cramps, confusion, and sweating (Daly, 2011). Methamphetamine is a stimulant and increases alertness, reduces appetite, and increases one’s pleasure; however abuse of the drug can cause heart attacks, high blood pressure, and strokes.

Long term effects include hallucinations, weight loss, and heart damage (Daly, 2011). Other drugs like Ecstasy are stimulants which allow users to participate in all night parties. For some users, it also serves to improve their mood. These substances create various effects on users, and with the abuse of these drugs, the users would likely feel euphoric. The danger is seen with stopping their use which can cause the manifestation of withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms are often difficult to hide in the