Project Materials

PSYCHOACTIVE SUBSTANCE USE AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE

ABSTRACT

The purpose of the study, Psychoactive Substance Use Among Young People, was to ascertain the prevalence and usage trends of psychoactive substances among Nigerian youth. In order to gather data from secondary sources, such as published articles and journals, the study used an exploratory research design (p < 0.05). Based on data collected, the study found that substance misuse is highly prevalent among youth and suggested ways to address the impact of substance addiction on human communities. The actions of people under the influence of one or more psychoactive drugs have been connected to a considerable number of premature fatalities and accidents (Shelly, 2010). varied agencies have varied perspectives on drug misuse. Substance abuse, according to Neeraja (2011), is the dependence on drugs or other chemicals that has negative effects on one’s physical and emotional well-being or the welfare of others. Substance abuse is defined by Smelzer, Bare, Hinkle, and Cheever (2008) as a maladaptive pattern of drug use that can disrupt daily living and result in bodily and emotional harm. According to these definitions, substance abuse is defined as the misuse of one or more medications that may be prescribed by a medical professional with the goal of changing a person’s feelings, thoughts, or behaviour. It is linked to negative outcomes, such as physical and psychological harm to the individual. According to the African Symposium (2010), substance abuse is defined as the inappropriate use or application of drugs by an individual who is not properly informed about the substances and does not have a valid prescription from a licensed medical professional. Psychoactive substances are the main emphasis of this definition. All drugs have the potential to be abused to the point that the user becomes addicted because they are unable to quit using them in spite of the negative consequences on their social, personal, and financial lives. Although it was formerly thought to be a problem of a “select few,” substance addiction has become so serious that it now affects women, children, and persons living in rural areas in addition to the typical features of abusers being male, adult, and urban (Rocha, 2009). These abusers mistakenly think that using drugs improves their mood, performance, etc. The welfare of society is seriously threatened by the issues that this act brings with it (Ajala, 2009).

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study 

All around the world, people and society are heavily burdened by psychoactive substance use and dependence. According to the 2010 World Health Report, the use of psychoactive substances accounts for 8.9% of the overall burden of disease.

According to the report, the burden of disease in 2010 was caused by alcohol at 4%, tobacco at 4.1%, and illegal drugs at 0.8%. Numerous health and social issues contribute significantly to the burden associated with substance use and dependency.

Large-scale seizures of cocaine, heroin, cannabis, and amphetamine-type stimulants have been reported worldwide, according to data from the World Health Organisation (2011). The degree of cultivation in the nations of origin and the success or failure of trafficking organisations determine the availability of cocaine, heroin, and cannabis.

Nevertheless, there always appears to be plenty for users, even with higher levels of law enforcement activity. An estimated 200 million individuals use illegal substances of some kind, according to UNODC figures from 2011.

The use of psychoactive substances is a social issue that has rapidly expanded in educational institutions, particularly among students in secondary school (Neeraja, 2011).

Because it negatively impacts the lives and academic performance of the participating pupils as well as the harmonious operation of the overall social system, this social issue is regarded as a matter of grave concern.

Psychoactive drug use and other related issues are detrimental to their ability to survive, function well, feel happy, etc. The welfare of society is seriously threatened by the issues that this act brings with it (Ajala, 2009).