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Mental Health Friday 2023-03-10

On Mental Health Friday, we post, in alphabetical order, one per week, information on mental health disorders. Mental Health Friday is for informational purposes only, and is in no way meant to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Please do not self diagnose and seek professional help for what ails you.

Inhalant Use Disorder

By Editorial Team AI

Introduction

Inhalant Use Disorder, also known as volatile substance abuse or solvent abuse, is a form of substance use disorder that involves the intentional inhalation of volatile substances for the purpose of getting high. Inhalants are a broad category of substances that include solvents, gases, and nitrites, which produce psychoactive effects when inhaled.

Inhalant Use Disorder is a serious public health issue, particularly among adolescents and young adults. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 862,000 individuals aged 12 or older reported using inhalants for the first time in 2020. In the same year, an estimated 1.5 million people aged 12 or older had used inhalants in the past year.

 

Classification and Symptoms of Inhalant Use Disorder

Inhalant Use Disorder is classified as a substance use disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). The DSM-5 criteria for Inhalant Use Disorder include a pattern of problematic use that leads to clinically significant impairment or distress, as manifested by at least two of the following symptoms within a 12-month period:

1. Using inhalants in larger amounts or for longer periods of time than intended.
2. Persistent desire or unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control inhalant use.
3. Spending a great deal of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the effects of inhalants.
4. Cravings or a strong desire to use inhalants.
5. Failing to fulfill major obligations at work, school, or home because of inhalant use.
6. Continuing to use inhalants despite persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of inhalants.
7. Giving up or reducing important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of inhalant use.
8. Using inhalants in situations that are physically hazardous, such as while driving or operating machinery.
9. Continuing to use inhalants despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by inhalant use.
10. Tolerance, as defined by the need for increased amounts of inhalants to achieve the desired effect or diminished effect with continued use of the same amount.
11. Withdrawal, as manifested by characteristic symptoms when inhalant use is stopped or reduced, such as irritability, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and cognitive impairments.

 

Common Inhalants and Their Effects

Inhalants are readily available and inexpensive, and include a wide range of household and industrial products. Some of the most commonly used inhalants include:

1. Aerosol sprays: This category includes products such as spray paint, hair spray, and deodorant spray. Inhalation of these products can produce feelings of euphoria, dizziness, and hallucinations.
2. Solvents: These are liquids that are used to dissolve other substances. Examples include gasoline, glue, and nail polish remover. Inhalation of solvents can cause slurred speech, impaired coordination, and a loss of consciousness.
3. Gases: This category includes products such as butane, propane, and helium. Inhalation of these products can cause feelings of disorientation, confusion, and hallucinations.
4. Nitrites: These are a type of inhalant that includes products such as amyl nitrite and butyl nitrite. Inhalation of nitrites can cause a rush of euphoria, increased heart rate, and lowered blood pressure.

The effects of inhalants vary depending on the specific substance, the amount inhaled, and the method of inhalation. In general, inhalants produce a rapid onset of psychoactive effects that last for a short period of time. These effects can include feelings of euphoria, disorientation, hallucinations, and delusions. Inhalant use can also result in physical and cognitive impairments. Short-term physical effects of inhalant use can include headache, dizziness, nausea, and slurred speech. Long-term use can lead to serious health problems, such as liver and kidney damage, heart failure, and permanent brain damage.

Inhalant use can also have a significant impact on cognitive functioning, particularly in areas related to attention, memory, and decision-making. Studies have shown that individuals who use inhalants regularly may experience long-term cognitive impairments, including difficulties with learning, processing speed, and executive functioning.

 

Risk Factors for Inhalant Use Disorder

Inhalant Use Disorder is most commonly associated with adolescents and young adults, particularly those who live in low-income or rural areas. Other risk factors for Inhalant Use Disorder include:

1. Access to inhalants: Inhalants are often readily available in households or in local stores, making them easy for individuals to obtain.
2. Peer pressure: Adolescents and young adults may be more likely to use inhalants if their peers are also using them.
3. Mental health problems: Individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions may be more likely to use inhalants as a form of self-medication.
4. Trauma: Individuals who have experienced trauma or adverse childhood experiences may be more likely to use inhalants as a way to cope with their emotions.
5. Lack of parental supervision: Adolescents who have limited parental supervision may be more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as inhalant use.

 

Treatment for Inhalant Use Disorder

Treatment for Inhalant Use Disorder typically involves a combination of behavioral therapies and medication-assisted treatment. Behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and contingency management, are designed to help individuals learn coping skills and strategies to manage their cravings and avoid relapse. Medication-assisted treatment, such as naltrexone and buprenorphine, can also be used to help individuals manage their cravings and reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms.

In addition to these treatments, individuals with Inhalant Use Disorder may benefit from support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous, and family therapy. Family therapy can help to address any underlying issues that may be contributing to the individual’s substance use, such as family conflict or trauma.

 

Conclusion

Inhalant Use Disorder is a serious public health issue that can have significant physical and cognitive consequences. Individuals who struggle with Inhalant Use Disorder may benefit from a combination of behavioral therapies, medication-assisted treatment, and support groups. Prevention efforts, such as educating adolescents about the risks of inhalant use and limiting access to inhalants, can also help to reduce the prevalence of Inhalant Use Disorder.