Unit 4: Avoiding risks and harmful habits
Characteristics of Health-Compromising Behaviors
- Definition: Behaviors that negatively affect an individual's health.
- Examples: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, poor diet, and risky sexual
behavior.
- Onset: Often begin in adolescence.
- Consequences: Increased risk of chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease and cancer.
- Clustering: These behaviors often occur together, exacerbating health risks.
Addictions: Recognizing and Avoiding
- Recognition:
- Increased tolerance to the substance or behavior.
- Withdrawal symptoms when not engaging in the behavior.
- Inability to stop despite negative consequences.
- Avoidance:
- Developing healthy coping mechanisms.
- Seeking social support.
- Participating in educational programs on the risks of addiction.
Addictive Behaviors
- Types:
- Substance Abuse: Alcohol, drugs, nicotine.
- Behavioral Addictions: Gambling, internet use, shopping.
- Characteristics: Compulsivity, inability to control use, continuing use despite adverse
effects.
- Consequences: Physical, psychological, and social repercussions.
Types of Addictions
- Substance Addictions:
- Alcohol
- Tobacco
- Illicit drugs
- Prescription medications
- Behavioral Addictions:
- Gambling
- Internet gaming
- Shopping
- Exercise and eating disorders
- Common Features: Cycle of craving, use, and withdrawal.
Influencing Factors for Addictions
- Genetics: Family history of addiction increases risk.
- Socio-Economic Status: Lower status linked to higher addiction rates.
- Environment: Peer pressure, availability of substances, and family dynamics.
- Psychological Health: Mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
- Early Exposure: Early use of substances or engagement in addictive behaviors.
Differences Between Addictive and Non-Addictive People
- Addictive Individuals:
- Exhibit compulsive behaviors.
- Struggle to control their use.
- Continue use despite negative consequences.
- Often face social and relationship issues.
- Non-Addictive Individuals:
- Better coping mechanisms.
- More stable relationships.
- Lower tendency to engage in high-risk behaviors.
Effects and Health Hazards from Addictions
- Physical Health:
- Increased risk of diseases (e.g., liver disease, lung cancer, heart disease).
- Higher susceptibility to infectious diseases.
- Mental Health:
- Higher incidence of anxiety, depression, and other disorders.
- Social Consequences:
- Strained relationships.
- Legal issues.
- Financial problems.
- Decreased productivity.
- Overall Impact: Reduced life expectancy and quality of life.