Drugs

Drug addiction (substance abuse) involves the use and abuse of narcotic substances such as heroin, cocaine, cannabinoids and opiates.

Effects

Physically speaking, the effects of these substances vary depending on the type and amount taken, and can range from mood swings to psychological or psychiatric disorders to permanent damage to the brain and other organs. 

 

Over time, people who repeatedly and compulsively use drugs need to take increasingly higher doses to feel the same effects and may experience withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, nausea, vomiting, and headaches and joint pain. 

 

Substance addiction has a significant socio-health impact, with direct and indirect consequences on public order and health and social spending. 

The population group most at risk is adolescents. The 2023 Annual Report to Parliament on Drug Addiction in Italy (in italian) shows a rise in consumption among teenagers (15 to 19 age group), up from 18.7% to 27.9%, especially in the use of synthetic cannabinoids and new psychoactive substances.

Prevention can play an essential role in reducing substance addiction and its consequences on health, such as the transmission of diseases, including hepatitis and HIV.

If you are at risk or have an addiction, contact the SerD (addiction treatment). It is free of charge and, if you wish, anonymous.

People at risk or who have developed an addiction can contact the SerD (addiction treatment) centres, which are part of the Department of Pathological Addictions and are established by all local health authorities. Their mission is the prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of people who have or believe they have addiction-related issues. 

A team of addiction experts (medical doctors, psychologists, sociologists, social workers, educators and nurses) provides specialist answers, tailored to different needs, and can put together a treatment programme.  

Access to addiction centres is free, either on a walk-in basis during opening hours or by taking a telephone appointment. Complete confidentiality is guaranteed, and anonymity can be requested. 

In any case, no action will be taken and no information will be disclosed by the SerD without the patient's consent. 

The 2021-2025 Regional Prevention Plan (PRP), taking into account the context in which these addictions develop, in its programme dedicated to addiction, provides for integrated and coordinated strategies between the actors involved to enhance and promote empowerment and personal skills to prevent and reduce social and family distress. 

There are also dedicated projects in the School and Health Catalogue, for early identification and primary prevention, such as Unplugged. 

The Prevention Plan also disseminates up-to-date knowledge and opportunities for training and professional development on the subject.