Drug addiction extends beyond the abuse of illegal substances such as marijuana and cocaine, with the misuse of prescription and other commonly available medications also posing a serious risk of dependency.
Speaking on Nyansapo Fie on Plan B FM with host Akosua Gyamfua, guest expert Rev. Benjamin Boateng addressed common misconceptions about substance dependency and explained how even legitimate medications can become harmful when they are misused or taken without proper medical guidance.
Rev. Boateng explained that repeated and excessive use of certain substances can cause the body to develop tolerance. As tolerance increases, an individual may require higher doses to achieve the same effect, potentially leading to physical or psychological dependence and making it increasingly difficult to function without the substance.
He identified several factors that can contribute to substance abuse, including peer pressure, unresolved stress, difficult working conditions and emotional challenges. According to him, some individuals turn to substances as a way of coping with stress, escaping personal difficulties or managing physical and mental exhaustion, without realizing that such behaviour could develop into a long-term dependency.
On prevention, Rev. Boateng emphasized the importance of setting personal boundaries and being mindful of the company one keeps. He cautioned against taking medications prescribed for others or using drugs without proper medical advice, noting that people respond differently to substances based on their individual body chemistry.
He further encouraged individuals to address the underlying causes of stress and other challenges rather than relying on substances as a coping mechanism. Developing healthier ways of managing pressure, he said, can help reduce the risk of substance dependency.
Rev. Boateng also stressed the importance of early intervention and professional support in the recovery process. He explained that overcoming addiction requires self-awareness, a willingness to seek help and access to appropriate counselling or medical treatment.
He therefore urged individuals struggling with substance dependency, as well as their families and loved ones, to seek professional guidance rather than dealing with the problem alone. According to him, recovery begins with acknowledging the problem and taking the necessary steps to access structured support.
By: Sandra Kwapong
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