Lesson 1: Clinical Disorders – Part F

PART F

Substance Intoxication

A diagnosis of intoxication may be made if obvious and significant behavioural and psychological changes are evident in an individual after he or she introduces a specific substance into his or her body. These changes occur as a direct result of the substance’s biological effects on the central nervous system. When people are intoxicated, their judgement, attention, and concentration are reduced. Intoxication is too often the cause of many otherwise avoidable injuries and fatalities.

Many symptoms of intoxication depend on the specific substance used, the duration of the usage of the drug, the amount taken, and the tolerance level of the individual. Symptoms may also differ between first-time users and long-term users. Sometimes the user’s expectations influence which symptoms occur. For example, a person at a party may become friendly and talkative when using alcohol but, when home, may become relaxed or tired. In all situations, however, the individual has decreased reaction time, reduced concentration, and impaired perception. Please refer to Case Study 16 for an example of substance intoxication.