Addiction – a major concern in Guyana – Part II

By Mark DaCosta-Generally, Guyanese know what is addiction even though experts such as psychologists do not have a universally accepted definition. Citizens know, too, that addiction is a big problem in Guyana. It is also known that anyone can become an addict; there are poor, homeless people addicted to alcohol, and there are wealthy, famous media personalities who are victims of cocaine addiction. It appears that no one is exempt.

Experts say that people may become addicted to substances such as alcohol and nicotine. Or, addiction can involve behaviours such as gambling, and, surprisingly, even excessive physical-exercise. However, no matter what type of addiction is involved, it is always a compulsion to do something that brings fast pleasure, but is harmful in the long term.

Guyanese are most familiar with substance or drug addiction. This physical/mental (or neuropsychological) disorder is defined as a chronic, relapsing disorder characterised by compulsive drug seeking and use despite adverse consequences. It is considered a brain disorder, because it involves functional changes to brain circuits involved in reward, stress, and self-control. Those changes may last a long time after a person has stopped taking drugs. It is important to remember that because that may be a big reason why former addicts can relapse after years of being “clean.”

When experts talk about changes in the brains of drug addicts they mean that when a person becomes addicted to a substance, there are physical changes in the brain. Those changes can actually be seen by specialists using diagnostic tools such as brain scanners, and they can be measured by chemical tests.

Because addictive drugs cause physical changes in the body, it is usually very hard for the addict to stop. That is why – even though one may be angry at a family member or a friend for becoming a drug addict – one should bear in mind that the person may want to stop, but cannot do it alone. As such, the addict may be classified as a victim of addiction who deserves our concern and help rather than ridicule.

Experts view drug addiction as a complicated disease that requires medical intervention. In other words, while an addict may break the law while under the influence of a substance, or in an effort to obtain the substance, the root of the problem is not a legal issue, instead, the solution to addiction lies in medical intervention.

Being a medical disease, substance abuse disorder has symptoms. The Mayo Clinic lists the following symptoms:

• Feeling that you have to use the drug regularly — daily or even several times a day

• Having intense urges for the drug that block out any other thoughts

• Over time, needing more of the drug to get the same effect

• Taking larger amounts of the drug over a longer period of time than you intended

• Making certain that you maintain a supply of the drug

• Spending money on the drug, even though you can’t afford it

• Not meeting obligations and work responsibilities, or cutting back on social or recreational activities because of drug use

• Continuing to use the drug, even though you know it’s causing problems in your life or causing you physical or psychological harm

• Doing things to get the drug that you normally wouldn’t do, such as stealing

• Driving or doing other risky activities when you’re under the influence of the drug

• Spending a good deal of time getting the drug, using the drug or recovering from the effects of the drug

• Failing in your attempts to stop using the drug

• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you attempt to stop taking the drug

As this series unfolds, each article will explore various aspects of the matter. Meanwhile, Guyanese who have questions about this issue, or problems with addiction may contact a health care professional or the Guyana suicide hotline on (592) 600-7896.