Mod 10

Drugs and Consciousness

• Focus on tolerance and addiction in substance use disorders.

Substance-Induced Disorders

• Defined as changes resembling psychological disorders due to drug or alcohol misuse.

• Includes dysfunctions such as sexual dysfunctions, OCD, depression, psychosis, sleep disorders, and neurocognitive disorders.

Understanding Psychoactive Drugs

• Psychoactive Drug: Any substance that alters the brain, affecting perceptions and moods.

• Substance Use Disorder: Characterized by ongoing substance use despite significant life disruption.

Diagnosis Criteria for Substance Use Disorder

• The American Psychiatric Association outlines a diagnosis when drug use persists despite serious consequences, leading to lasting brain changes even after cessation.

• Indicators of Severity: Ranges from mild to severe (6 or more indicators).

• Strong cravings can develop in triggering environments.

Tolerance and Addiction

• Tolerance: The need for larger doses for the same effect due to repeated use (e.g., over-the-counter painkillers).

• Addiction: Compulsive craving for a drug or behavior despite harm.

• Withdrawal: Discomfort following discontinuation of the substance.

Types of Psychoactive Drugs

Depressants

• Examples: Alcohol, barbiturates, opiates.

• Effects: Calm neural activity, and slow body functions.

• Alcohol: Works as a disinhibitor, leading to impaired memory and cognition.

  • Long-term impacts: Brain shrinkage, addiction, and various diseases.

  • Gender differences in alcohol use disorder risks.

  • Stages of impairment: Reduced awareness, impulsiveness, possible alcohol poisoning.

Barbiturates

• Effects: Reduce anxiety, impair memory and judgment.

• Risks: Potentially lethal, especially when combined with alcohol.

• Brand Names: Nembutol, Seconal, Ametol.

Opioids

• Examples: Opium, codeine, morphine, heroin.

• Addiction Crisis: Increased opioid-related deaths, especially since 2019.

• Effects: Constricts pupils, causes lethargy, and depresses neural activity.

• The Opioid Crisis: Aggressive marketing by pharmaceutical companies and social influences.

Stimulants

• Effects: Excite neural activity, speed up body functions.

• Examples: Nicotine, caffeine, amphetamines, cocaine.

Nicotine

• Highly addictive, stimulates neurotransmitter release, and affects appetite.

• Risks of withdrawal are significant; smoking correlates with severe health risks.

• E-cigarettes' rise and their impact on youth smoking rates.

Cocaine

• Effects: Provides euphoria and increased energy but can lead to a crash.

• Mechanism: Blocks neurotransmitter reuptake, intensifying effects.

Hallucinogens

• Distort perceptions, create sensory images without inputs (e.g., LSD).

• Can produce vivid hallucinations and emotional variability.

Marijuana

• Contains THC, can enhance sensory experiences but also acts as a depressant.

• Risks of addiction, and negative impact on mental health in frequent users.

Influences on Drug Use

• Biological Factors: Genetic predispositions influence vulnerabilities to certain drugs.

• Socio-Cultural Factors: Peer influence, environment, and societal attitudes towards drugs impact usage patterns.

• Interventions: Education on long-term risks, boosting self-esteem, and refusal skills can mitigate drug use.

Warning Signs of Alcohol Use Disorder

• Binge drinking behaviors

• Cravings and neglecting responsibilities

• Not fulfilling resolutions to drink less

• Social isolation concerning alcohol use.

Conclusion

• Understanding the underlying causes of substance use can guide treatment and prevention efforts, focusing on both individual and societal aspects.