In the last post, we saw how:
Welcome to Medic Vibes, where we discuss mental health disorders and make sense of them. Dr Ebingo Kigigha is a medical doctor (aspiring psychiatrist) and creative person (illustration and music). This has been our routine for four consecutive months. This month will be dedicated to substance abuse. In the first month, we discussed Depression, and in the subsequent month, anxiety. We just finished with Conduct disorders.
In this post, we are looking at A Nigerian Study on Substance Abuse. To learn more just keep scrolling down. You can also skip to the key point of the post if you which or go to the conclusion to get the summary.
There are several common health conditions associated with alcoholism, including substance-related disorders, antisocial personality disorder, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders. It is also known that alcohol-related disorders are linked to higher levels of suicide.
The connection between alcoholism and antisocial personality disorder has been well documented. This connection is more commonly observed in male alcoholics, and it is possible that antisocial behavior may appear before alcoholism. However, some studies have described them as separate conditions.
Between 30% to 40% of those with alcohol-related disorders meet the diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder at some point in their life. This is more commonly seen in female alcoholics. Studies have shown that daily alcohol consumption and a family history of alcohol abuse are strong predictors of depression in those with alcohol-related disorders.
Individuals with both major depression and alcohol-related disorders are at a higher risk of suicide and substance abuse. In some cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants for the first 2 to 3 weeks of sobriety.
Patients with bipolar affective disorder are at a higher risk of developing alcohol-related disorders and may use alcohol to self-medicate manic symptoms. In some studies, it has been found that those with both alcohol-related disorders and depression have higher levels of certain neurotransmitters and metabolites in their cerebrospinal fluid.
Many people turn to alcohol as a means of calming their anxiety, but the link between alcohol and anxiety is less clear. Between 25% and 50% of those with alcohol-related anxiety disorders have some form of anxiety, with phobias and panic disorder being the most common forms. In some cases, people with phobias or social phobias may use alcohol as a solution, but it is often the case that the alcohol-related disorder developed first.
Image by storyset on Freepik
One important way to handle substance abuse is through education. This gives the person the necessary tools to deal with substance abuse, including knowledge about the drugs and the risks they pose, as well as the precautions that can be taken. It is important for those being educated to know that seeking help is possible and effective.
The effects of substance abuse go beyond just the individual and can extend to their interpersonal relationships, spending habits, and quality of life. Education about the potential harm and risks associated with substance abuse can help the individual focus on the benefits of seeking help. Those who are educated will learn about the various treatment options available and self-care routines that can be helpful for overcoming substance abuse.
Another important aspect of health education is teaching individuals about the dangers of addiction. Addiction is a chronic disease characterized by an inability to stop using drugs despite negative consequences. Health education programs can provide information about the signs and symptoms of addiction and the ways in which it can be treated and managed.
Health education can be obtained through government agencies and programs, such as the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Non-profit organizations, like the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence and the National Institute of Drug Abuse, also provide helpful information on substance abuse. Consultation with healthcare practitioners, such as doctors and nurses, can also provide valuable advice on substance abuse, how it is managed, and how it affects the body.
There are also many helpful materials available online, but it is best to stick with verified websites, such as those from SAMHSA, for reliable information.
In intervention therapy, the family plays a significant role. The patient must be intentional about changing, or they will not see any changes and that will come with the realization of the harm posed by alcohol. The family members must allow the patient to go through the adverse effects of drinking.
The patient can also meet those receiving treatment from alcohol-related disorders by the suggestions of the family. They can attend Alcohol Addiction meetings and the family can also meet with these groups to organize an intervention for the patient. It is important for the group to meet with the family so that they know that others have gone through the same process they are going through. Those who are part of this meeting share how to get through these difficult times.
The family should also focus on moving forward even if their loved one does not take the right steps for help.
Detoxification
Almost all patients who are alcohol dependent will experience symptoms when they stop using alcohol, especially if they are unwell. If they have better health, the symptoms they will experience are like a mild flu case when they go through the depressant withdrawal.
The symptoms seen now are nothing compared to the cases seen in the past.
When a patient is to go through detoxification, they will need a physical examination. If the patient is in good health, they may not experience these changes. They should be placed on bed rest, proper diet plans, and multivitamins.
