PSYB32H3 Chapter Notes - Chapter 12: Delirium Tremens, Substance Dependence, Alcohol Dependence
Document Summary
Alcohol abuse and dependence: alcohol dependence may include tolerance or withdrawal reactions. Short term effects of alcohol: alcohol is metabolized by enzymes after being swallowed and reaching the stomach, most of it goes into the small intestines where it is absorbed into the blood. This means that the initial effect of alcohol is stimulating the drinker experiences an expansive feeling of sociability and well-being as the blood alcohol rises. But after the blood alcohol level peaks and begins to decline, alcohol acts as a depressant that may lead to negative emotions. Large amounts of alcohol interfere with complex thought processes, motor coordination, balance, speech and vision. Inhalant use disorders: a number of young people begin their substance abuse by inhaling such substances as glue, correction fluid, spray paint, cosmetics, gasoline and cans of whipped cream (???) Inhalants can cause damage to the central nervous system: nausea and subsequent headaches are experiences eventually in almost all cases.
