Key concepts in substance misuse

Drug use is a major challenge for public services, healthcare professionals and policy-makers all over the world. This book offers a complete overview of the issues associated with substance misuse from an interdisciplinary perspective. It begins by providing a reference guide to the different psychoactive substances, looking at the biological and psychological impact of their use. Key issues in the effect drugs have on society are then addressed, before outlining methods of recovery and therapy. Chapters include: Reflective questions to challenge readers' assumptions Case studies to help students understand the impact of substances on individuals Links to further resources to expand readers' knowledge It will be valuable reading for those studying on degrees in criminology, health, nursing, social work and counselling.

Part 1: Drugs, Democracy and Society Ethical Evaluations of Drug Use and Drug Policy - Aaron Pycroft The International and National Legislative Framework - Aaron Pycroft The Relationship Between Politics and Scientific Knowledge in Formulating Drug Policy - Aaron Pycroft Alternatives to Prohibition - Aaron Pycroft Part 2: Definitions and categories of psychoactive substances Sedatives - Aaron Pycroft Stimulants - Aaron Pycroft Opiates - Aaron Pycroft Hallucinogens - Aaron Pycroft Poly Drug Use - Aaron Pycroft Drugs with Mixed Effects - Aaron Pycroft New Psychoactive Substances (Legal Highs) - Rosanna Bartholomew Part 3: Understanding the Nature of Addiction Addiction as a Complex Adaptive System - Aaron Pycroft The Evolutionary Context - Aaron Pycroft Dependence Syndromes - Aaron Pycroft Psychological Perspectives - Aaron Pycroft Part 4: Interventions and Treatment Dual Diagnosis and the Context of Exclusion - Anita Green Harm Reduction - Tony Shea The concept of Recovery - Tim Leighton The Purposes and Methods of Detoxification from Illicit Drugs - Rebecca Lee The Purposes and Methods of Detoxification from Alcohol - Pam Campbell and Anne Spooner The Major Talking Therapies - Trevor Smith Buddhism and Addiction - Devin Ashwood Criminal Justice Interventions - Bernie Heath Evidence Based Practice, Research and Outcome Monitoring - Jane Winstone The Core Skills in Working with Substance Misuse - Angela Woods Whole Systems Approaches - Tony Wilkinson