GRIEF: DRUG ABUSE AND ITS RELATIONSHIP WITH THE MOURNING WORK

Abstract

This work was caused by the question about whether drug abuse can constitute an outlet when the grieving process is not elaborated by the subject. It was investigated the nuances that can lead the bereaved subject to abuse various drugs, describing the possible consequences of drug abuse in the subject's mourning work and analyzing the role that the drug plays in the subject's psychic functioning.

Psychoanalysis was the theoretical field guiding this research, with the subject being addicted to drugs, drug policies and the harm reduction strategy. It was concluded that the drug has a role in trying to buffer the anguish triggered by the subject's encounter with significant loss and its finitude, bringing a momentary illusion of being free of these. It also works as an attempt to dispense with the Other, closing itself in the abusive use of drugs, one should abdicate all possible delimitations of the Other, not allowing any separation between subject and object, or mediating, regulating and without interventions. Therefore, the abusive use of drugs can be, in most cases, harmful in terms of mourning work, leaving the subject anesthetized, restricting his social bond and making it difficult to elaborate the loss and connection to new objects. However, it is important to emphasize that each subject has its unique connection with the drug and goes through its processes in individual ways. It is necessary for the professional to welcome the subject according to his demand, his history and without generalizations, using of caring strategies that best exert aids in mourning work. Knowing even, the ordinances of health services, damage reduction strategies, and all possible referrals and welcoming, so that the mourner's treatment happens with quality and effectiveness.