Substance Use: A Psychosocial Perspective

The problem of psychoactive substance abuse and dependence has been increasing in India over the past few decades. The abuse of alcohol, nicotine and illicit drugs has shown a significant increase in many parts of the country. This has become a public health issue requiring effective treatment strategies. Intervention with the substance abusing population requires a thorough understanding of the sociodemographic and psychosocial variables that mediate recovery. The innate strengths and resources of the substance dependent person have to be harnessed to ensure a substance free lifestyle.

Alcohol dependence has adverse impact on the cognitive functions of the abuser as well as on their emotional regulation. This often leads to poor control over anger and aggression. The impact is also felt by family members, especially the spouses and children. Spouses and children of alcohol dependents tend to be significantly distressed and report severe family dysfunction and domestic violence as primary causes of their distress. These issues have to be factored in while planning interventions. Studies on risk and protective factors for alcohol and tobacco use among college students have indicated that psychological factors such as attitudes, normative beliefs, expectancies, affect, religiosity and self-regulation are important determinants. The studies indicate that early intervention and prevention of psychoactive substance abuse are important issues that require more attention from mental health professionals.