Psychoactive substances such as drugs, alcohol and tobacco are common in our society. However, unlike other substances that are used medically to treat illnesses, psychoactive substances have the ability to alter brain function, causing mental and physical changes in the body.
What are Psychoactive Substances?
Psychoactive substances are substances that affect the central nervous system, causing changes in the brain and behavior. They can come from many different origins and include drugs, alcohol, tobacco, and some medications and plant extracts.
Why are Psychoactive Substances Harmful?
Psychoactive substances have the ability to cause various mental and physical changes in the body that can lead to serious health consequences.
Physical Consequences
One of the most obvious consequences of substance use is physical changes in the body. For example, alcohol use can lead to acute and chronic liver disease, as well as increase the risk of cancer. Drug use can cause problems such as seizures, respiratory and cardiac arrest, and infectious diseases associated with the use of unauthorized syringes.
Mental Consequences
In addition to physical changes, psychoactive substances can also cause mental changes that can lead to mental illness and behavioral disorders. For example, drug use can lead to substance abuse and behavioral disorders.
Alcohol and some drugs can cause mental changes such as depression, anxiety, psychosis, and delusions. Some of these changes may be temporary, but with prolonged substance use, they can become chronic and lead to mental disorders. In addition, substance use can cause addiction and behavioral disorders, which can lead to social isolation, problems in personal relationships and at work.
Implications for the Brain
Psychoactive substances affect the brain, causing changes in neurochemical processes and leading to impaired brain functioning. For example, drug use can cause disturbances in the brain responsible for controlling movement and sensation. This can lead to impaired motor coordination, difficulty in performing fine movements, and vision and hearing problems. Alcohol use can also lead to brain dysfunction, causing changes in behavior, memory, and movement coordination.
Who is at Risk?
All people, regardless of age and social status, are at risk of substance use. However, certain populations may be more at risk, including young people, people with mental health problems, people living in disadvantaged social circumstances and people with a history of substance abuse.