Mental Health

Sniffing Glue: A Treatable Addiction

By Dynne C. | Update Date: May 27, 2024 08:00 AM EDT

Sniffing glue is a serious form of substance abuse that can have severe health impacts.

What Does 'Sniffing Glue' Mean?

Sniffing glue involves inhaling the fumes from glue to achieve a high. This practice is a type of inhalant abuse that is particularly common among children and teenagers due to the easy access and low cost of these substances. Besides glue, other household products like nail polish remover, lighter fluid, shoe polish, paint thinner, spray paint, gasoline, markers, cooking spray, and canned whipped cream can also be abused.

The effects of sniffing glue and other inhalants can be immediate, causing a feeling of euphoria, dizziness, slurred speech, difficulty walking, disorientation, hallucinations, lack of coordination, drowsiness, headache, low blood pressure, flushing, difficulty breathing, loss of inhibitions, and feelings of invincibility. However, the dangers are significant, including sudden death from heart failure, suffocation, or accidents caused by impaired judgment.

List of Treatments for Sniffing Glue

Treating glue sniffing addiction requires comprehensive approaches similar to those used for other substance abuse. Treatments often focus on the needs of teenagers and involve multiple strategies.

Personal Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective in helping patients manage stress, resist peer pressure, and control cravings. It also helps them find personal motivation to stop using inhalants.

Family Therapy

Since inhalant abuse often occurs in children, involving the entire family in therapy can help improve communication and strengthen family bonds, which is crucial for recovery.

Engagement Programs

Programs that offer new skills and social activities, such as hiking, movie nights, and dances, provide healthy alternatives to drug use and help teenagers make friends who do not use drugs.

Aftercare Support

Participation in support groups and 12-step programs is essential for maintaining sobriety and preventing relapse.

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