This free online course explores the effects of substance abuse and lays out the treatment options available to addicts.

This course lays out the symptoms arising from the abuse of various narcotic substances and the mental health disorders associated with them. We explain some critical factors that drive substance misuse and discuss the signs of addiction and ways to prevent it. We then lay out the effects of specific substances on mental health in the long and short term and compare legal and illegal substances.

The course explores prevention principles and explains how to recognise signs of substance abuse. We demonstrate how a reduction of drug intake lowers the health risks involved. We then examine some common workplace policies regarding substance misuse designed to protect employee health and safety. The course then examines the major elements of such policy and establishes the need to review and monitor them regularly. We provide a range of treatment options used to treat addiction.

Our final section covers the UK laws and various Acts related to substance abuse, starting with the Misuse of Drug Act’s classification of various narcotic and psychoactive substances. We examine the causes and effects of substance abuse among the youth to provide a holistic understanding of drugs as a public health problem. Our analysis includes details on specific substances such as cocaine and heroin. This healthcare and social work course suits anyone who wants to learn more about drug addiction and its treatment. Sign up to learn how to support those struggling with substance abuse and help them find the right treatment option.