Psychoactive Drug Addiction - 2235 Words

A narrow definition of the term addiction refers to habitual psychological and physiological dependence on a substance beyond one s voluntary control. Terms such as workaholic, sex addict, and computer junkie arose to describe behaviors that have features in common with alcoholism and other substance addictions. Substance addiction is a multi-pronged system in which lifestyle has a role but the biology of a person s body is a major factor. These substances, which are called psychoactive drugs, are what people become addicted to and are described as chemicals that affect mental processes and behavior by temporarily changing perception and awareness. There are many different theories about what addiction is and why it happens but†¦show more content†¦Once GAMA is attach to the receptor sites on the protein neurons then the channel is opened and the chloride flow freely. Allowing these negatively charged chloride ions to flow into cells causes neurons to become less active and pulse less therefore the brain is sending and receiving fewer neurotransmitters (McKim 158). As talked about earlier, different drugs influence each of these neurotransmitters differently. Each psychoactive drug has different effects on the body and different uses. The term psychoactive describes a substance that affects the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord), producing changes in a person s mental activity or behavior. Psychoactive drugs may affect the way an individual thinks, behaves, and analyzes. Many popular and widely used substances are psychoactive such as alcohol. Many Doctors prescribe psychoactive drugs for different reasons. Among the most important medical uses are as anesthesia for surgery and as analgesics (painkillers). Dangerous psychoactive drugs are believed to have little or no medical benefit, so are used illegally for recreational purposes including altering consciousness, improving performance, and improving mood. When drugs are used for these purposes it can eventually lead to addiction. There are 4 main categories which all psychoactive drugs fall under. These categories consist of the following hallucinogens, stimulants, depressants, and opiates. Hallucinogens can cause people toShow MoreRelatedEssay Legalization of Soft Drugs732 Words   |  3 Pagesthe pros and cons of legalizing â€Å"soft drugs†. Hard and Soft drugs are terms to distinguish between psychoactive drugs that are addictive and perceived as especially damaging and drugs that are believed to be non-addictive (or minimally addictive) and with less dangers associated with its use. The term soft drug implies that the drug causes no or insignificant harm one such drug is cannabis (marijuana).Cannabis is a psychotic drug. 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