A common misconception surrounding drug addiction is that it solely affects the life of the user. However, the idea that they aren’t hurting anyone except for themselves is an excuse that many individuals who abuse drugs use in order to justify their addiction. Drug addiction is not a one-person phenomenon, and it creates a domino effect on the lives of those around them. It is a social problem that normalizes drug use and affects individuals and their families.
Effects of Drug Addiction
At first glance, a drug addiction may appear to only affect the person who is using. However, because addiction is a destructive issue that can have an adverse effect on the community, family, and individual, it’s very rare that other people aren’t affected. An individual neglecting their responsibilities as a result of drugs can negatively affect their career, children’s education, or family’s financial security. Their impact can also extend outside of the immediate family. Friends or community members who rely on their presence or companionship can suffer from their absence.
There are a variety of short-term and long-term health effects associated with addiction. Although the specific effects vary between drugs, prolonged abuse of any substance can lead to chronic disease or alter an individual’s productivity. The most permanent effect of drug addiction is death, which becomes more likely through addiction because of increased tolerance leading to overdose.
The Connection Between Addiction and Crime
There is a definitive link between crime and drug addictions that is mainly contributed to the illegal status of commonly abused drugs. Not only is it illegal to carry many of these drugs but an individual’s lowered inhibitions when under the influence can encourage them to commit other crimes. The types of crime that an individual may commit when on drugs is extensive and dependent on a variety of sub-factors, but regardless, drug users are more likely than nonusers to commit crime. Petty theft in order to obtain drugs and satiate their cravings when desperate is another way in which drugs influence individuals to commit crimes.
How Drug Rehabilitation Can Better Society
There are two types of people: those who believe that drug addiction treatment should be given to everyone, and those who think that drug addiction shouldn’t be treated as a criminal issue. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter who suffers from addiction, criminal or not. With the proper help and treatment, you will be able to overcome your addiction and fit into society once again. Due to the process of drug rehabilitation, there is almost a countless number of people who took the necessary steps to beat their crippling addiction and even become pillars of various communities. Some individuals have managed to procure fantastic jobs and live healthy, drug-free jobs.
Unfortunately, drug addiction is still in society. Once an addiction starts, it can become very difficult for you to come back from it. With that said, you don’t have to fight it alone. Don’t be ashamed to tell people of your addiction. Many people are going through or have gone through the same thing. You will need the support of your family, friends and even the professionals treating you. If you or someone you know is suffering from an addiction, asking for help is the first step to regaining control of your life.
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