Substance-Related Disorders

quizlet 1 for exam 3

Substance use disorder

When an individual uses more of a substance than intended and continues use despite significant adverse consequences.

Physical dependence

Involves changes in normal bodily functions, leading to withdrawal symptoms upon cessation of use.

Psychological dependence

An emotional need for a drug, used to relieve psychological distress.

Tolerance

The need for increasing amounts of a drug to achieve effects previously experienced at lower doses.

Withdrawal

A variety of negative symptoms experienced when drug use is discontinued.

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)

30% of Americans meet DSM criteria for AUD in their lifetime.

Binge drinking

27% of Americans report binge drinking monthly.

Life expectancy decrease

Alcohol dependence can shorten life expectancy by approximately 12 years.

Alcohol as a depressant

Alcohol is often mistakenly thought of as a stimulant; it is actually a depressant.

Withdrawal dangers

Alcohol withdrawal can be more dangerous than withdrawal from heroin.

Low dose effects of alcohol

Activates dopamine in the mesolimbic pathway, leading to pleasure.

High dose effects of alcohol

Inhibits glutamate, leading to poor judgment and lowered self-control.

Short-term consequences of alcohol

Includes hangover, blackouts, and risky behavior.

Long-term consequences of alcohol

Includes liver cirrhosis, malnutrition, and cognitive decline.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)

Caused by alcohol consumption during pregnancy, leading to growth deficiencies and intellectual disabilities.

DSM-5 criteria for AUD

Diagnosis requires 2+ symptoms, such as craving, tolerance, and withdrawal within 12 months.

Biological Causal Factors

Pleasure pathway activation; genetic vulnerability influences AUD risk.

Alcohol flush reaction

Common in Asians; may act as a protective factor against AUD.

Stress & Tension-Reduction Hypothesis

Alcohol is used to self-soothe psychological distress.

Binge drinking reasons

Includes independence from parental influence, peer pressure, and beliefs about alcohol enhancement.

Cultural attitudes towards alcohol

Religious values can limit alcohol use, while European cultures often have higher consumption rates.

Treatment challenges

Many alcohol abusers are in denial; treatment is sought after hitting bottom.

Multidisciplinary Approach

Combines medical, psychological, and environmental interventions for effective treatment.

Detoxification

Focuses on eliminating alcohol and managing withdrawal symptoms.

Benzodiazepines

Used during detox to reduce withdrawal risks such as seizures and delirium.

Antabuse (Disulfiram)

Creates an aversive reaction if alcohol is consumed.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Focuses on developing coping and stress-management skills in individual and group therapy.

Relapse Prevention Strategies

Teach clients to identify and manage high-risk situations to avoid relapse.

Controlled Drinking vs. Abstinence

Debate regarding which approach produces better long-term outcomes.

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

Founded in 1935; emphasizes lifelong abstinence and provides social support through group meetings.

Opiate addiction causes

Genetic predispositions, environmental influences, and personal maladjustment contribute to opiate abuse.

Withdrawal symptoms from opiates

Can include runny nose, sweating, nausea, and if severe, delirium and cardiovascular collapse.

Dopamine Reward Pathway

Dysfunction in this pathway is linked to addiction, connecting to pleasure, pain, and breathing.