Complications and Causes of Addiction – Quality of Care

Dependencies on psychoactive substances and alcohol represent significant medical and social issues, necessitating intensive efforts in psychiatric healthcare. Addiction is a severe disease that psychologically devastates individuals, further complicating social integration due to stigma and discrimination, which are major obstacles to the rehabilitation and resocialization of those affected. Individuals with dependencies often exhibit insecurity and emotional instability, requiring specialized approaches in treatment. This article examines the causes of dependencies on psychoactive substances (PAS) and alcohol, as well as related complications. A retrospective analysis of data from the Second Psychiatric Clinic of St. Marina University Hospital in Varna highlights the importance of somatic comorbidities and their impact on the treatment of dependent patients. This analysis emphasizes the high level of strain psychiatric patients with complications impose on the healthcare system. Data on the socio-demographic characteristics of the patients, modes of admission, types of diagnoses, and associated somatic comorbidities are included. The increased complexity of care for these patients demands adequate training and preparation of medical staff, particularly nurses, who are often the first point of contact with patients. The necessity of a multidisciplinary approach involving specialists from various medical fields is critical for the effective management of both the psychiatric and somatic aspects of dependency. Providing coordinated and integrated health services thus becomes a primary priority for enhancing the chances of successful recovery and reintegration of dependent individuals into society.