Substance Use Disorders: Cake (2014) Essay (Movie Review)

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Introduction

The movie “Cake” gives a detailed analysis of Claire’s loss after surviving a fatal accident. She becomes embittered and restless throughout her life (Cake 2014). This essay describes the issues associated with substance abuse and addiction.

Areas of the Brain and Neurotransmitters that Impact Addiction

The brain is comprised of many areas. Each of these parts has its specific functions. Some parts of the brain are known to impact addiction. The brain stem is the area that supports the functioning of different body organs and processes (Swartz, 2010). Addiction affects the brain thus interfering with different body functions. The second area is known as the limbic system. Some drugs affect this system thus encouraging people to continue using them. The cerebral cortex is also affected by drugs. Continued drug use “makes it impossible for people to solve problems or make accurate decisions” (Swartz, 2010, p. 4). Some neurotransmitters are also affected by addictive drugs. For instance, alcohol “affects different transmitter systems such as those for dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate” (Coleman, Coyle, Shuping, & Rue, 2008, p. 4). Alcohol also “increases the activities of endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine” (Swartz, 2010, p. 5). Drugs “reduce glutamate activity in the body” (Coleman et al., 2008, p. 4).

Difference between Substance Abuse and Use

According to the above movie, substance use refers to the intake of drugs such as alcohol to feel good and socialize with different friends (Cake 2014). Substance use might not result in drug dependence. However, some people who use drugs might become irresponsible. On the other hand, substance abuse refers to the continued use of drugs for twelve months or more (Coleman et al., 2008). Substance abusers fail to accomplish their chores and duties. The film “Cake” shows how substance abusers develop various interpersonal problems.

Co-morbid Mental Health Disorders Associated with Substance Abuse

The word “co-morbidity refers to various disorders occurring in a single person” (Coleman et al., 2008, p. 3). Substance abusers tend to develop certain co-morbid mental disorders. Drug addiction results in various mental problems (Cake 2014). For instance, individuals who are addicted to drugs tend to suffer from an anxiety disorder. The above movie shows how Claire becomes restless. Such people are also unable to establish meaningful relationships (Coleman et al., 2008, p. 5). Mood disorders are common among substance abusers. This fact is observed in the above film. Psychosis also affects many marijuana abusers. Depression is another mental challenge affecting different substance abusers.

Personal View of Substance Use Disorders

Continued use of various drugs can result in impairment. Substance use disorders are common among individuals who take different drugs. I believe that many people suffer from such disorders. New models should be identified in order to deal with such disorders. Such disorders are usually ignored thus resulting in numerous health problems (Swartz, 2010). The life of Claire explains why substance users should be supported in order to achieve their potentials (Cake 2014). Such measures are relevant because substance abuse can result in numerous health problems.

Works Cited

Barnz, B. (Executive Producer). (2014). Cake [DVD]. New York, USA: After Dark Films.

Coleman, P., Coyle, C., Shuping, M., & Rue, V. (2008). Induced abortion and anxiety, mood, and substance abuse disorders: Isolating the effects of abortion in the national co-morbidity survey. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 1(1), 1-7.

Swartz, R. (2010). Medical Marijuana Users in Substance Abuse Treatment. Swartz Harm Reduction Journal, 7(3), 1-9.

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IvyPanda. (2022, April 15). Substance Use Disorders: Cake (2014). https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-movie-cake-review/

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IvyPanda. "Substance Use Disorders: Cake (2014)." April 15, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-movie-cake-review/.

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