Homework Help: Health: Substance Abuse: Overdosing

People who are suicidal or people that have mental disorders can often overdose. If you think a person is going to overdose get help immediately, as it can be not only harmful, but also fatal. Here are the facts to help you out with this distressing problem.

The amount of dosage used to be considered an over dose varies from person to person, as it affects people differently. It is also important to realise that mixing certain drugs with alcohol and, or other drugs can be fatal. Over dosing can be done purposely, or done when a person is completely unaware.

Here are some physical symptoms to help you tell if a person has been over dosing:

• strange breathing
• mumbling speech
• not very good coordination
• fast or slow pulse
• temperatures (high or low)
• small or large pupils
• red in the face
• sweats a lot
• very tired
• violent breakouts
• hallucinations, delusions
• unconsciousness, which can lead to a coma
• a diabetic may show other or some of the above symptoms if they are having a reaction to insulin
• behaviour changes
• lack of appetite
• insomnia
• hostility
• mental confusion
• depression
• mood swings
• secretive behaviour
• social isolation
• deep sleep

As always prevention is the best cure. Everytime a person overdoses their physical reaction can become more and more severe. Overdosing can be completely accidental in the below situations and should be avoided, as it is very dangerous.

• never take a prescribed medication for a person other than yourself
• it is never a good idea to give or take medication whilst in the dark
• if you are not sure always read the label before each use, in case you forget the prescribed amount and also to make sure it is the right one
• always consult your doctor if experiencing any side effects or If previous side effects have been experienced
• make sure when storing medications that they have child proof lids and are stored out of reach
• keep medications in their original containers

However in most cases overdose is intentional and an act of suicide. If you have the slightest inkling on a person being in this mental state please seek immediate help. Imagine having to live with the fact that you let a person go like that on your conscience for the rest of your life, life would no longer be livable for you either my friend!

I am no doctor, psychiatrist, or nurse but depression, overdose and suicide were once a part of my life as it is for many people today. Please e-mail me with anything you wish to ask or comment on way_2stoned@yahoo.com

Homework Help: Health: Substance Abuse

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