Special Population: Persons with Mental Illness and Chemical Dependency

Chemical abuse tends to increase impulsivity and this increases both the possibility of harm to self and harm to others. At times, drug intoxication may mimic symptoms of mental illness. The following table identifies various drugs by classes and their possible effects.

Drug Class

Examples of Drugs
Included in the Class

Possible Effects/Intoxication

Narcotics

Morphine, Codeine, Heroin

Euphoria, drowsiness, respiratory depression, constricted pupils

Depressants

Barbiturates, Tranquilizers, Chloral Hydrate

Sensory alteration, anxiety reduction, intoxication, calmness, relaxed muscles, slurred speech, impaired judgment, loss of motor coordination, difficulty concentrating

Stimulants

Cocaine, Amphetamines, Methamphetamines

Increased heart and respiratory rates, elevated blood pressure, dilated pupils, and decreased appetite, loss of coordination, perspiration, blurred vision, dizziness, restlessness, anxiety, excessive activity, talkativeness, irritability, argumentativeness or nervousness

Hallucinogens

PCP, LSD, Mescaline, Ecstasy

Rapidly changing feelings, anxiety, distorted perception of time, hallucinations, dizziness, confusion, suspicion, extreme changes in behavior and mood, chills, irregular breathing, sweating and shaking hands

Cannabis

Marijuana, Hashish

Euphoria, relaxation, impaired memory, poor concentration, loss of coordination, more vivid sense of taste, smell, sight and hearing, fluctuating emotions, disoriented behavior

Alcohol

Ethyl Alcohol, Ethanol

Sensory alteration, anxiety reduction, staggering, smell of alcohol on breath, loss of coordination, slurred speech, dilated pupils, confusion, disorientation

Steroids

Dianabol, Nandrolone

Quick weight and muscle gains, extremely aggressive behavior, skin rashes

Source: The National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information, Drugs of Abuse, Retrieved 02/08/02, www.health.org/govpubs/rpo926/.