Blue mood, blackened lungs: depression and smoking
Article Abstract:
''Self-medication'' is a concept of drug abuse which suggests that individuals attempt to medicate themselves to achieve relief from their painful feelings. Thus, the theory suggests, individuals have a biologic predisposition to finding a drug that corresponds to their particular vulnerability. Individuals who are unable to control their moods may seek cocaine or other stimulants, while persons unable to control anger may turn to heroin or other depressants. In short, the drug abusers are made to feel better and more normal by their addiction. Several recent studies seem to support this theory. Specialized receptors in the brain have been found for several types of drugs, and there is also evidence of genetic factors behind alcoholism and other drug abuse. The theory of self-medication is gaining support, but many aspects remain to be clarified. For instance, it is frequently difficult to distinguish between primary and secondary causes of psychiatric state. With addiction and a psychiatric diagnosis, the question becomes, Which came first? If self-medication is an important aspect of drug abuse, the question of just how it operates remains. It is particularly important to examine tobacco addiction from this view point. The September 26, 1990 edition of the Journal of the American Medical Association examines smoking initiation and addiction. Tobacco addiction is the single most important cause of preventable illness, yet remains legal and socially acceptable. Articles in this issue of JAMA associate depression with tobacco-addiction, yet not with other psychiatric conditions. It is premature, however, to suggest that antidepressant therapy could or even should be used to help individuals stop smoking. However, evaluation and treatment of depression may become an integral part of reaching the stated goal of a smoke-free society. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1990
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Awareness about depression: important for all physicians
Article Abstract:
The June 18, 2003 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) is devoted to research on depression. It includes articles on the economic aspects of depression, the number of Americans who experience depression, an evaluation of psychotherapy in rural Uganda, a brain imaging study, the treatment of depression in primary care, a report on depression and suicide among doctors, and a summary of future research priorities.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 2003
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