Enumerate the drugs of abuse among young population in India. Describe the long term effects of drug abuse on health and personality of the drug abuser.

Drugs of Abuse Among Young Population in India

The drugs of abuse can be broadly categorized as follows:

• Opioids: This is the most prevalent category, including heroin, morphine, codeine, and increasingly, pharmaceutical opioids. Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Manipur are particularly affected.
• Cannabinoids: Marijuana (ganja), hashish (charas), and bhang are widely used, often perceived as less harmful, leading to higher rates of experimentation.
• Stimulants: Amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) like methamphetamine and ecstasy are gaining popularity, especially in metropolitan areas and among college students.
• Sedatives & Hypnotics: Prescription drugs like benzodiazepines (diazepam, alprazolam) are misused for their calming effects.
• Inhalants: Volatile substances like glue, paint thinner, and petrol are abused, particularly among street children and marginalized communities.
• Alcohol: While legally available, excessive alcohol consumption is a significant problem, often serving as a gateway drug.
• Nicotine: Primarily through smoking and chewing tobacco, nicotine addiction is widespread, with a high prevalence among young adults.

Long-Term Effects of Drug Abuse on Health

The long-term health effects of drug abuse are extensive and vary depending on the substance used, frequency of use, and individual susceptibility.

Physical Health Effects

• Cardiovascular Diseases: Opioids and stimulants can lead to hypertension, arrhythmias, and increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Respiratory Problems: Smoking cannabis or other substances damages the lungs, increasing the risk of chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and lung cancer.
• Liver Damage: Alcohol and certain drugs can cause cirrhosis, hepatitis, and liver failure.
• Kidney Damage: Prolonged drug use can impair kidney function, leading to renal failure.
• Neurological Damage: Stimulants and opioids can cause brain damage, leading to cognitive impairment, memory loss, and increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
• Infectious Diseases: Intravenous drug users are at high risk of contracting HIV, hepatitis B and C, and other bloodborne infections.
• Weakened Immune System: Chronic drug use suppresses the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections.

Effects on Personality and Psychological Well-being

• Mental Health Disorders: Drug abuse is strongly linked to depression, anxiety, psychosis, and other mental health disorders.
• Cognitive Impairment: Drug use can impair attention, memory, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Personality Changes: Chronic drug abuse can lead to irritability, aggression, impulsivity, and a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities.
• Social Isolation: Drug abusers often withdraw from family and friends, leading to social isolation and loneliness.
• Loss of Motivation: Drug abuse can erode motivation and ambition, leading to academic or occupational failure.
• Increased Risk of Suicide: Individuals with substance use disorders are at a significantly higher risk of suicide.
• Development of Addiction: The brain's reward system is hijacked, leading to compulsive drug-seeking behavior despite negative consequences.

Specific Examples: The use of heroin in Punjab has led to a significant increase in HIV prevalence among intravenous drug users. The abuse of pharmaceutical opioids, particularly among young adults, is a growing concern nationwide, contributing to overdose deaths and addiction.

Drug	Primary Long-Term Health Effect	Primary Long-Term Psychological Effect
Heroin	Cardiovascular disease, Liver disease, HIV/Hepatitis	Depression, Anxiety, Social Isolation
Cannabis	Respiratory problems, Cognitive impairment	Apathy, Reduced motivation, Psychosis (in vulnerable individuals)
Stimulants	Cardiovascular problems, Neurological damage	Psychosis, Aggression, Anxiety