Addiction and Dependence: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Substances

Understanding Alcoholism

Alcoholism is a disease characterized by a strong need for consuming ethyl alcohol, leading to physical dependence. This dependence is expressed through specific withdrawal symptoms when intake is not possible. Individuals with alcoholism often lose control over consumption limits and typically develop an increased tolerance to alcohol over time.

The Dangers of Tobacco Smoking

Cigarette smoking is an addiction to tobacco, caused primarily by nicotine, its active component, which conditions continued consumption. Smoking is a chronic systemic disease classified within the group of addictions and is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) by the American Psychiatric Association. It is now considered the leading worldwide cause of preventable illness and mortality. It is a chronic addictive disease with treatment possibilities. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tobacco is the leading cause of sickness, disability, and premature death globally. It is directly related to the development of 29 diseases, including 10 different types of cancer. Tobacco is the main cause of 95% of lung cancers, 90% of bronchitis, and over 50% of cardiovascular diseases.

Understanding Drug Addiction

Drug addiction is a disease that involves dependence on substances affecting the central nervous system and brain functions, leading to changes in behavior, perception, thought, and emotion. The effects of drugs vary widely, depending on the drug type, quantity, and frequency of consumption. They can produce hallucinations, intensify or dull the senses, or cause feelings of euphoria or despair. Some drugs can even lead to severe mental impairment or death.

Types of Drug Dependence:

• Physical Dependence: The body becomes reliant on the drug. When consumption stops, strong physiological disorders, known as withdrawal symptoms, ensue.
• Psychological Dependence: This refers to the euphoric state experienced when consuming drugs, which drives the user to seek the drug again to prevent discomfort or for pleasure. The individual feels an urgent need to take drugs and experiences emotional distress when unable to obtain them.

Root Causes of Drug Use

In general, drug use often stems from a desire to escape reality. Drugs can provide a temporary escape route and relief from personal, family, or social pressures. They may also serve as an illusory solution to an existential void within the individual, who seeks external means to fill this internal emptiness.

Factors Contributing to Drug Addiction:

• Social Factors
• Family Factors
• Individual Factors