drug addiction solution essay

Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction Preventing Drug Misuse and Addiction: The Best Strategy

Why is adolescence a critical time for preventing drug addiction.

As noted previously, early use of drugs increases a person's chances of becoming addicted. Remember, drugs change the brain—and this can lead to addiction and other serious problems. So, preventing early use of drugs or alcohol may go a long way in reducing these risks.

Risk of drug use increases greatly during times of transition. For an adult, a divorce or loss of a job may increase the risk of drug use. For a teenager, risky times include moving, family divorce, or changing schools. 35  When children advance from elementary through middle school, they face new and challenging social, family, and academic situations. Often during this period, children are exposed to substances such as cigarettes and alcohol for the first time. When they enter high school, teens may encounter greater availability of drugs, drug use by older teens, and social activities where drugs are used. When individuals leave high school and live more independently, either in college or as an employed adult, they may find themselves exposed to drug use while separated from the protective structure provided by family and school.

A certain amount of risk-taking is a normal part of adolescent development. The desire to try new things and become more independent is healthy, but it may also increase teens’ tendencies to experiment with drugs. The parts of the brain that control judgment and decision-making do not fully develop until people are in their early or mid-20s. This limits a teen’s ability to accurately assess the risks of drug experimentation and makes young people more vulnerable to peer pressure. 36

Because the brain is still developing, using drugs at this age has more potential to disrupt brain function in areas critical to motivation, memory, learning, judgment, and behavior control. 12  

Can research-based programs prevent drug addiction in youth?

Yes.  The term research-based or evidence-based means that these programs have been designed based on current scientific evidence, thoroughly tested, and shown to produce positive results. Scientists have developed a broad range of programs that positively alter the balance between risk and protective factors for drug use in families, schools, and communities. Studies have shown that research-based programs, such as described in NIDA’s  Principles of Substance Abuse Prevention for Early Childhood: A Research-Based Guide   and  Preventing Drug Use among Children and Adolescents: A Research-Based Guide for Parents, Educators, and Community Leaders , can significantly reduce early use of tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs. 37  Also, while many social and cultural factors affect drug use trends, when young people perceive drug use as harmful, they often reduce their level of use. 38

How do research-based prevention programs work?

These prevention programs work to boost protective factors and eliminate or reduce risk factors for drug use. The programs are designed for various ages and can be used in individual or group settings, such as the school and home. There are three types of programs:

• Universal programs address risk and protective factors common to all children in a given setting, such as a school or community.
• Selective programs are for groups of children and teens who have specific factors that put them at increased risk of drug use.
• Indicated programs are designed for youth who have already started using drugs.

Young Brains Under Study

Using cutting-edge imaging technology, scientists from the NIDA’s Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study will look at how childhood experiences, including use of any drugs, interact with each other and with a child’s changing biology to affect brain development and social, behavioral, academic, health, and other outcomes. As the only study of its kind, the ABCD study will yield critical insights into the foundational aspects of adolescence that shape a person’s future.

Economics of Prevention

Evidence-based interventions for substance use can save society money in medical costs and help individuals remain productive members of society. Such programs can return anywhere from very little to $65 per every dollar invested in prevention. 39

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Introduction

Drug abuse has become a rife thing in most nations across the world. In this case, millions of dollars are being spent every year in order to prevent the abuse of drugs, treat drug addicts as well as prevent crimes related to drug abuse. Despite the fact that drugs tend to pose threats to most nations, their impacts can be combated. This paper presents the problem of drug abuse in society and tries to indicate some of the possible solutions to the same.

The Problem

Drug abuse leads to many problems in most nations and communities. It is vital to note that both medical and psychological impacts are obvious since they can easily be noted among those abusing drugs. In this case, addicts are unable to function as normal individuals in society. Moreover, they are noted to abuse those around them including their family members; hence, they require extensive hospitalization or even expensive treatments. It is evident that drug abuse has been spread across the world regardless of age (Donohew, Howard, & William 13). It is surprising to see that many young people abuse certain hard drugs such as cocaine and heroin. Drug addicts are highly involved in criminal activities. There is a need to implement relevant policy initiatives in order to fight and prevent dealing as well as smuggling of drugs in the world. Criminal gangs alongside mafia individuals have a tendency to develop their resources in the form of money from drug smuggling and dealing. Cocaine has become one of the most used drugs in the world especially among young people.

Most importantly, it has become evident that some individuals are not able to utilize recreational or even prescription drugs because of negative impacts or addiction. Substance abuse can lead to serious problems in different areas including work, studies, relationships as well as homes hence making people feel abandoned and isolated (O’Farrell and William 27). Moreover, people tend to experiment with different drugs due to many reasons. Most addicts use drugs out of strong curiosity since their peers are doing the same. Others would do it in an attempt to improve their performance. It is important to note that the use of drugs does not necessarily lead to abuse. In addition, there is no specific level or degree of intake that can be considered problematic (Donohew, Howard & William 22). In this case, abuse will depend on an individual; hence it is not related to the amount of drug that one takes or even the frequency of intake. However, drug abuse can lead to many problems in terms of health, economics, and relationships.

Power Question

Drug abuse makes me poses a power problem that should be included in major discussions in order to prevent and control drug abuse across the world. The power question would consider why some users of drugs end up becoming addicted whilst others will continue taking the drugs and are never addicted to them. In other words, why do some drug users become addicted, while others do not? This question is worth considering since some people take drugs during their entire lives and are not addicted to them. The greatest question relates to the causes of the addiction and whether there is a psychological or physiological explanation for the issue.

Possible Solutions

It is fortunate that the menace accompanying drug abuse and addiction can be prevented and controlled. Education can act as the initial solution to the problem. Making young people aware of the dangers of drug abuse and the impacts of the same would be vital at the initial levels of learning. Individuals need to know about the issues related to drug abuse and addiction. This should be taught in schools and through public campaigns in order to caution people across the world. Addressing the issue at the early stages would be effective since children would grow to be aware that drugs have negative consequences whenever they are abused. It would be vital to curb the issue until it aggravates (Donohew, Howard, and William 44).

Another approach would be to use laws and the police in order to prevent and control drug abuse. In this case, nations should develop laws that will help to prevent drug smugglers and dealers from carrying out drug business across the world, especially in their nations. This should start at the national level. The police will be involved in law reinforcement through arresting those involved in drug smuggling and dealing.

The last approach would be to give people jobs and roles in society in order to keep them occupied. This way, they would have little time to think about the use of drugs. This will also reduce drug addiction across the world (O’Farrell & William 34). The lack of jobs makes people depressed and ashamed of themselves; thus, they consider drug use as a way to reduce stress.

The Strongest Solution

The most effective approach to the drug abuse problem would be education that creates awareness across the communities. This would play an important role in reducing and preventing drug abuse since people would be aware of its negative impacts. It is only through education that people regardless of age could be made aware of the dangers of drug intake.

In conclusion, drug abuse has become rampant worldwide hence requiring quick action. It has led to addiction and serious health, economic, and psychological problems across the world. There have been proposed solutions like education, the use of police, and the creation of jobs and roles in communities. Therefore, the matter should be taken seriously since it affects almost every nation in the world.

Works Cited

• Donohew, Lewis, Howard E. Sypher, & William J. Bukoski, eds. Persuasive Communication and Drug Abuse Prevention. Boston, MA: Routledge, 2012. Print.
• O’Farrell, Timothy J., & William Fals-Stewart. Behavioral Couples Therapy for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse. New York, NY: Guilford Press, 2013. Print.
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How to Overcome Drug Addiction

Treatment options.

• Steps to Take

Intervention

Frequently asked questions.

Drug addiction, or substance use disorder (SUD), is when someone continues using a drug despite harmful consequences to their daily functioning, relationships, or health. Using drugs can change brain structure and functioning, particularly in areas involved in reward, stress, and self-control. These changes make it harder for people to stop using even when they really want to. 

Drug addiction is dangerous because it becomes all-consuming and disrupts the normal functioning of your brain and body. When a person is addicted, they prioritize using the drug or drugs over their wellbeing. This can have severe consequences, including increased tolerance to the substance, withdrawal effects (different for each drug), and social problems.

Verywell / Ellen Lindner

Recovering from SUD is possible, but it takes time, patience, and empathy. A person may need to try quitting more than once before maintaining any length of sobriety. 

This article discusses how drug addiction is treated and offers suggestions for overcoming drug addiction.

How Common Is Addiction?

Over 20 million people aged 12 or older had a substance use disorder in 2018.

Substance use disorders are treatable. The severity of addiction and drug or drugs being used will play a role in which treatment plan is likely to work the best. Treatment that addresses the specific situation and any co-occurring medical, psychiatric, and social problems is optimal for leading to long-term recovery and preventing relapse.

Detoxification

Drug and alcohol detoxification programs prepare a person for treatment in a safe, controlled environment where withdrawal symptoms (and any physical or mental health complications) can be managed. Detox may occur in a hospital setting or as a first step to the inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation process.

Going through detox is a crucial step in recovery, and it's these first few weeks that are arguably most critical because they are when the risk of relapse is highest.

Detox Is Not Stand-Alone Treatment

Detoxification is not equivalent to treatment and should not be solely relied upon for recovery. 

Counseling gets at the core of why someone began using alcohol or drugs, and what they can do to make lasting changes. This may include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), in which the patient learns to recognize problematic thinking, behaviors, and patterns and establish healthier ways of coping. CBT can help someone develop stronger self-control and more effective coping strategies.

Counseling may also involve family members to develop a deeper understanding of substance use disorder and improve overall family functioning. 

Cognitive behavioral therapy has been shown effective in helping people overcome addiction. In one study, 60% of people with cocaine use dependence who underwent CBT along with prescription medication provided cocaine-free toxicology screens a year after their treatment.

Medication can be an effective part of a larger treatment plan for people who have nicotine use disorder, alcohol use disorder, or opioid use disorder. They can be used to help control drug cravings, relieve symptoms of withdrawal, and to help prevent relapses.

Current medications include: 

• Nicotine use disorder : A nicotine replacement product (available as patches, gum, lozenges, or nasal spray) or an oral medication, such Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Zyban (varenicline)
• Alcohol use disorder : Campral (acamprosate), Antabuse (disulfiram), and ReVia and Vivitrol (naltrexone).
• Opioid use disorder : Dolophine and Methados (methadone), buprenorphine, ReVia and Vivitrol (naltrexone), and Lucemyra (lofexidine).

Lofexidine was the first medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat opioid withdrawals. Compared to a placebo (a pill with no therapeutic value), it significantly reduces symptoms of withdrawal and may cause less of a drop in blood pressure than similar agents.

Support Groups

Support groups or self-help groups can be part of in-patient programs or available for free use in the community. Well-known support groups include narcotics anonymous (NA), alcoholics anonymous (AA), and SMART Recovery (Self-Management and Recovery Training). 

Roughly half of all adults being treated for substance use disorders in the United States participated in self-help groups in 2017.

Online Support Group Options

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, these groups that were often out of reach to many are now available online around the clock through video meetings. Such groups are not considered part of a formal treatment plan, but they are considered as useful in conjunction with professional treatment.

Other Options

Due to the complex nature of any substance use disorder, other options for treatment should also include evaluation and treatment for co-occurring mental health issues such as depression and anxiety (known as dual diagnosis). 

Follow-up care or continuing care is also recommended, which includes ongoing community- or family-based recovery support systems.

Substance Use Helpline

If you or a loved one are struggling with substance use or addiction, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 800-662-4357 for information on support and treatment facilities in your area.

For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database .

Steps for Overcoming Drug Addiction

Bear in mind that stopping taking drugs is only one part of recovery from addiction. Strategies that help people stay in treatment and follow their recovery plan are essential. Along with medical and mental health treatments, the following are steps you can take to help overcome substance use disorder. 

Commit to Change

Committing to change includes stages of precontemplation and contemplation where a person considers changing, cutting down, moderating, or quitting the addictive behavior. Afterward, committing to change can look like working with a professional in identifying specific goals, coming up with a specific plan to create change, following through with that plan, and revising goals as necessary.

Surround Yourself With Support

Enlisting positive support can help hold you accountable to goals. SAMHSA explains that family and friends who are supportive of recovery can help someone change because they can reinforce new behaviors and provide positive incentives to continue with treatment.

Eliminate Triggers

Triggers can be any person, place, or thing that sparks the craving for using. Common triggers include places you've done drugs, friends you've used with, and anything else that brings up memories of your drug use.

You may not be able to eliminate every trigger, but in the early stages of recovery it's best to avoid triggers to help prevent cravings and relapse . 

Find Healthier Ways to Cope With Stress

Stress is a known risk factor or trigger for drug use. Managing stress in healthy ways means finding new ways of coping that don’t involve drug use.

Tips to Cope With Stress

Coping with stress includes:

• Putting more focus on taking care of yourself (eating a balanced diet, getting adequate sleep, and exercising)
• Concentrating on one challenge at a time to avoid becoming overwhelmed
• Stepping away from triggering scenarios
• Learning to recognize and communicate emotions

Learn More: Strategies for Stress Relief

Cope With Withdrawal

Coping with withdrawal may require hospitalization or inpatient care to ensure adequate supervision and medical intervention as necessary. This isn’t always the case, though, because different drugs have different withdrawal symptoms. The severity of use also plays a role, so knowing what to expect—and when to seek emergency help—is important.

For example, a person withdrawing from alcohol can experience tremors (involuntary rhythmic shaking), dehydration, and increased heart rate and blood pressure. On the more extreme end, they can experience seizures (sudden involuntary electrical disturbance in the brain), hallucinations (seeing, hearing, smelling, or tasting things that do not actually exist outside the mind), and delirium (confusion and reduced awareness of one's environment).

Withdrawing from drugs should be done under the guidance of a medical professional to ensure safety. 

Deal With Cravings

Learning to deal with cravings is a skill that takes practice. While there are several approaches to resisting cravings, the SMART recovery programs suggest the DEADS method:

• D elay use because urges disappear over time.
• E scape triggering situations.
• A ccept that these feelings are normal and will pass.
• D ispute your irrational “need” for the drug.
• S ubstitute or find new ways of coping instead of using.

Avoid Relapse

The relapse rate for substance use disorders is similar to other illnesses and estimated to be between 40%–60%. The most effective way to avoid relapse and to cope with relapse is to stick with treatment for an adequate amount of time (no less than 90 days). Longer treatment is associated with more positive outcomes. Still, relapse can happen and should be addressed by revising the treatment plan as needed with medical and mental health professionals. 

An intervention is an organized effort to intervene in a person's addiction by discussing how their drinking, drug use, or addiction-related behavior has affected everyone around them.  

How Does an Intervention Work?

An intervention includes trained professionals like a drug and alcohol counselor, therapist, and/or interventionist who can help guide a family through the preparation and execution. It occurs in a controlled setting (not in the person’s home or family home). Intervention works by confronting the specific issues and encouraging the person to seek treatment.

Who Should Be Included at an Intervention?

Depending on the situation, interventions can include the following people:

• The person with the substance use disorder 
• Friends and family
• A therapist
• A professional interventionist

The  Association of Intervention Specialists (AIS) ,  Family First Interventions , and the  Network of Independent Interventionists  are three organizations of professional interventionists.

You may also want to consider if anyone in the list of friends and family should not be included. Examples are if a person is dealing with their own addiction and may not be able to maintain sobriety, is overly self-motivated or self-involved, or has a strained relationship with the person the intervention is for.

What Should Be Said During an Intervention?

While a person is free to say anything they want during an intervention, it’s best to be prepared with a plan to keep things positive and on track. Blaming, accusing, causing guilt, threatening, or arguing isn’t helpful.

Whatever is said during an intervention should be done so with the intention of helping the person accept help.

Bear in mind that setting boundaries such as “I can no longer give you money if you continue to use drugs,” is not the same as threatening a person with punishment. 

Overcoming drug addiction is a process that requires time, patience, and empathy. A person will want to consider actions they can take such as committing to change, seeking support, and eliminating triggers. Depending on the addiction, medications may also be available to help.

Loved ones who are concerned about a person’s drug or alcohol use may consider an intervention . Interventions are meant to encourage treatment. Ongoing support and follow-up care are important in the recovery process to prevent relapse. 

A Word From Verywell 

No one grows up dreaming of becoming addicted to a substance. If someone you love is experiencing a substance use disorder, please bear in mind that they have a chronic illness and need support and help. Learning about addiction and how not to enable a person is one way you can help them. Having the ongoing support of loved ones and access to professionals can make all the difference.

Helping someone overcome drug addiction requires educating yourself on the drug and on substance use disorder, not enabling the person's use, avoiding having unrealistic expectations of their immediate recovery and change, practicing patience and empathy, and encouraging the person to seek and stick with professional treatment.

Common signs of drug addiction include:

• Drug-seeking behaviors
• Drug cravings
• Using drugs despite the negative consequences
• Being unable to cut back or stop using

Overcoming drug addiction is a complex process that can occur at different paces for different people. There are 30-, 60-, and 90-day treatment programs, but even afterwards a person can benefit from follow-up care or continued care in the form of support groups or personalized therapy. These can get at the root of what was causing the person to start using.

American Psychological Association. What is addiction? .

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.  Key substance use and mental health indicators in the United States: Results from the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health .

Manning V, Garfield JBB, Staiger PK, et al. Effect of cognitive bias modification on early relapse among adults undergoing inpatient alcohol withdrawal treatment: a randomized clinical trial .  JAMA Psychiatry . 2020 ;78(2):133-140. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2020.3446

National Institute on Drug Abuse.  Principles of drug addiction treatment: A research-based guide; Cognitive behavioral therapy .

McHugh RK, Hearon BA, Otto MW.  Cognitive-behavioral therapy for substance use disorders .  Psychiatr Clin North Am . 2010;33(3):511-525. doi:10.1016%2Fj.psc.2010.04.012

National Institute on Drug Abuse. Principles of effective treatment.

Fishman M, Tirado C, Alam D, Gullo K, Clinch T, Gorodetzky CW.  Safety and efficacy of lofexidine for medically managed opioid withdrawal: a randomized controlled clinical trial .  Journal of Addiction Medicine . 2019;13(3):169-176. doi:10.1097/ADM.0000000000000474

Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality. Results from the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: detailed tables . Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Wen H, Druss BG, Saloner B. Self-help groups and medication use in opioid addiction treatment: A national analysis . Health Aff (Millwood) . May;39(5):740-746. doi:10.1377/hlthaff.2019.01021

National Institute on Drug Abuse. Treatment approaches for addiction .

Lassiter PS, Culbreth JR.  Theory and Practice of Addiction Counseling . SAGE Publications; 2017.

SAMHSA. Enhancing motivation for change in substance use disorder treatment .

Mental Health America. How can I stop using drugs? .

NIDA and Scholastic. Stress and drug abuse . 

Clinical Guidelines for Withdrawal Management and Treatment of Drug Dependence in Closed Settings . 4, Withdrawal Management. Geneva:World Health Organization; 2009. 

SMART Recovery. 5 ways to deal with urges and cravings .

National Institute on Drug Abuse.  Treatment and recovery .

National Institute on Drug Abuse. How long does drug addiction treatment usually last? .

Association of Intervention Specialists. Intervention-A starting point for change .

Cornerstone of Recovery. Things not to do during an intervention for a drug addict or an alcoholic.

By Michelle Pugle Pulge is a freelance health writer focused on mental health content. She is certified in mental health first aid.

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Drug Addiction in America: Effects and Solutions

The consumption of illegal substances and the development of addiction to them remains one of the primary health-related concerns in the American healthcare setting. The problem has grown particularly noticeably among high-school students, as the recent report by the National Institute of Health (2020) has indicated. Apart from the traditional list of illicit drugs, alcohol, and smoking, the 2020 report has also included more recent trends such as vaping (National Institute of Health, 2020).

Overall, the tendency for American citizens to abuse substances appears to be growing, which is a dangerous trend that must be curbed. Due to a drop in the efficacy of the immune system performance, increased strain on essential organs such as the liver, and the high probability of developing multiple types of cancer, drug addiction represents one of the most threatening and complicated conditions, which must be prevented with the help of appropriate programs.

Notably, the effects of drug addiction vary in severity and range depending on the type of drug that an individual chooses to consume. However, most illicit substances, namely, nicotine, cannabis, and opioids, affect the brain’s limbic system, particularly, the part of it that defines the production of dopamine (Berman et al., 2016). As a result, drugs cause an individual to experience a state of bliss. However, as an individual continues to consume drugs, the development of a habit causes the experience of pleasure to subside and the sense of dissatisfaction increases. Consequently, one experiences a severe need to increase the drug dose, which will eventually result in overdosing (Berman et al., 2016).

In addition to the described effect, illicit substances lead to the disruption and eventual destruction of the brain communication pathways. The described effect I especially prominent in patients abusing alcohol (Ray et al., 2017). However, the continuous consumption of other substances, especially opioids, will ultimately entail the same effects (Ray et al., 2017). Namely, the process of brain damage occurs once the amount of oxygen delivered to the brain is insufficient.

Apart from the brain, other organs are also severely affected by long-term drug abuse. For example, the liver suffers significantly due to exposure to toxic metabolic products resulting from processing illicit substances (Weissman et al., 2020). For the same reason, the stomach and the pancreas are also affected very often. Furthermore, the increase in blood pressure is caused by changes in the metabolism processes, as well as shifts in mood, which drugs cause, increase exposure to heart diseases, as well as severe problems with the nervous system (Weissman et al., 2020).

The threat of cancer also increases exponentially with the rise in the levels of illicit drug use. The described outcomes are particularly common for smoking, yet other drugs may also create an environment in which the cells of different body organs may experience unchecked growth and mutate, thus creating cancerous tumors in patients (Jett et al., 2018). Therefore, the threat of cancer is not to be underestimated as one of the crucial effects of illicit drug use, either.

In people abusing illicit drugs by injecting them, infectious diseases become a highly probable threat (Medina-Perucha et al., 2019). Moreover, in the instances of long-term drug injections, a patient’s veins may ultimately collapse, causing severe health outcomes (Medina-Perucha et al., 2019).

Namely, the disruption of the blood flow, which the specified phenomenon entails, is likely to cause severe complications. In turn, the openness to infections, which the use of a syringe suggests, may lead to the development of STIs, as well as a multitude of other infectious diseases, which will pose a major threat to a patient’s health. Moreover, being infected via sharing needles may entail the contraction of HIV and AIDS, which, in turn, will most likely lead to a patient’s death 9). Therefore, the use of illicit drugs, particularly, opioids, will inevitably lead to fatal outcomes, even if the initial dose is minimal. Moreover, the development of lesions, sores, and other skin conditions becomes a probable outcome as a result of long-term exposure to illicit drugs.

To develop a viable solution to the issue of drug addiction among U.S. citizens, one must take the social aspect into account apart from the health-related one. Namely, the fact that an individual is likely to be coerced into continuing drug abuse by a drug dealer even after a successful intervention needs to be taken into consideration. For this reason, a program aimed at assisting people with drug misuse problems must include social protection and, particularly, the opportunity to restrict their access to a drug dealer to them.

Additionally, the problem of severe legal repercussions that one may face due to drug possession and consumption must be handled accordingly. Presently, extraordinarily severe legal implications for people possessing drugs may prevent individuals from seeking help. Therefore, it is crucial to introduce changes to the current legal system so that the emphasis should be placed on the correction of behaviors and the possibility of recovery rather than the punishment of people with drug addiction issues.

The problem of illegal drug use remains a major health issue in the United States. Affecting thousands of people, the specified concern must be handled on the level of state policies and by developing appropriate public health programs. Thus, one will be able to create an effective strategy for preventing drug abuse, as well as encourage the victims of drug misuse to address healthcare services and seek help.

Berman, M., Paran, D., & Elkayam, O. (2016). Cocaine-induced vasculitis. Rambam Maimonides Medical Journal, 7 (4), pp. 1-12.

Cherobin, T. Z., Stefenon, L., & Wiethölter, P. (2019). Oral lesions in crack and cocaine user patients: Literature review. Oral Health and Dental Science, 3 (1), 1-5.

Jett, J., Stone, E., Warren, G., & Cummings, K. M. (2018). Cannabis use, lung cancer, and related issues. Journal of Thoracic Oncology, 13 (4), 480-487.

Medina-Perucha, L., Family, H., Scott, J., Chapman, S., & Dack, C. (2019). Factors associated with sexual risks and risk of STIs, HIV and other blood-borne viruses among women using heroin and other drugs: a systematic literature review. AIDS and Behavior, 23 (1), 222-251.

National Institute of Health (2020). Monitoring the future study: Trends in prevalence of various drugs .

Ray, S., Biswal, B. B., Aya, A., Gohel, S., Srinagesh, A., Hanson, C., & Hanson, S. J. (2017). Modeling causal relationships among brain areas in the mesocorticolimbic system during resting-state in cocaine users utilizing a graph theoretic approach. Journal of Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, 5 (4), pp. 1-8.

Weissman, S., Aziz, M., Perumpail, R. B., Mehta, T. I., Patel, R., & Tabibian, J. H. (2020). Ever-increasing diversity of drug-induced pancreatitis. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 26 (22), 2902.

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What are some Solutions to Drug Abuse?

This essay will discuss various solutions to combat drug abuse, including prevention strategies, treatment options, and rehabilitation programs. It will highlight the roles of education, policy, and community support in addressing drug addiction. At PapersOwl too, you can discover numerous free essay illustrations related to Addiction.

How it works

Nowadays, many people have thought that drugs are viable solution for personal problems or any other situations that affect the life of a person, but eventually, if a person reads the words drugs, it becomes a real problem in the current society. Therefore, there are factors that expose the drugs as an issue in the society. How can we understand this point?

First, the abuse of different substances and drugs are one of the most common situations that teenagers and Young adults tend to follow when they want to leave the problems.

The world has shown different cases about people who ruined their life due to the aggressive abuse of drugs like famous singers, actors, among others. Consequently, people who have been fans for years feel a Little disappointment.

Second, the society are not accustomed to deal with this kind of positive vision about drugs. If we talk about the vision of health problems, some people decide to start consuming in a stage of the life where they feel they do not have any solutions. Moreover, it is commonly seen that many people taking drugs like nicotine, alcohol, marijuana or other type of drug.

Thirdly, when people talk about drugs they often think that drugs are not a solution or are not a good way to face problems, but in most of the cases drugs are not for relaxing. Likewise, it helps to struggle against diseases such as cancer and also relives bone diseases. (magazine time, 2006)

In contrast, it s important to mention that drugs other affect parts of the body, especially related to cognitive skills that is connected to the attention and the concentration. The excessive consumption of drugs will also deteriorate the nervous system and make people become more violent and unfriendly. Therefore, and for many reasons, it is not a good idea to have an excessive consumption of drugs.

As a conclusion, the most important question is related to the impact that drugs are establishing in our society. Some people think that drugs are amazing, and others have a different point regarding the strengthens and weaknesses. In addition it is important to know the reasons why people are close to the consumption of drugs.

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Problem Solution , Drug Abuse

Drug abuse is a widespread problem that affects every society, age group, social class, and family. The consequences of drug addiction can be devastating, including ruined relationships, loss of jobs, financial strain, and crime. Communities and governments spend billions of dollars trying to regulate drug use, treat addicts, and fight drug-related crime. To combat drug abuse, education is key. Children need to be taught about the dangers of drug abuse at home and in school. Families and counselors need to talk to at-risk children. Police departments need more resources to enforce the law and stop dealers. While the problems of drug abuse may seem difficult to eliminate, there are steps that can be taken to weaken the effects of drugs on families and society, and everyone has a role to play in the battle against drug abuse.

Problem Solution Essay

Drug abuse is widespread throughout the world. Every society, age, social class, and family has been affected by drug addiction. The government spends billions of dollars trying to regulate drug use, treat addicts, and battle drug-related crime. Drugs affect nearly everyone and need to be fought better.

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Drug abuse causes many struggles for families and communities. Addicts are often too sick, to function as normal, liable members of a family or of society (“Addiction Science”). For instance, they ruin their relationships with their families and drain resources; especially if they require costly treatment or hospitalization (“Addiction Science”). Addicts can lose their jobs and, have no income to support themselves or anyone depending on them. Children and teens who abuse drugs become more distant from their families and do not have a healthy relationship with them. A second problem of drug abuse is the crimes committed by addicts. Increased police time and effort are needed to fight smuggling and dealing illicit drugs.

Communities continue to fight to find ways to prevent drug abuse and to help rehabilitate addicts. Dealing with drug problems takes up the police departments resources as well as the communities’. Because many cities and communities are struggling financially, adding more police protection, puts a strain on the citizens through taxes. Despite these difficulties, drugs can be fought.

Education is our best hope and effort. Children need to be taught at home and in school about the menace of drug abuse. For example, discussions around the dinner table, family events, and school programs and activities in health classes can give children information to help them stay away from drug use. Families and counselors need to talk to the kids at risk of drug abuse, or any path or decisions that could lead to drug abuse. Another approach to the problem of drug abuse is to increase police resources enforce the law and stop dealers. Statistics show the bigger the drug problem in a community, the bigger its crime rate (“International Statistics”). Even though the cost of adding more police may hurt a community and its citizens financially, protecting its children from drug abuse and cutting down on drug-related crimes is worth it.

Although the problems of drug abuse may seem difficult to eliminate or control, there are steps that can be taken to weaken the effects of drugs on families and on society. Parents, teachers, and communities must take steps to educate children about the harmfulness of drug abuse and need to offer safe, fun activities for children at risk to do to keep them healthy. Also, police departments must be provided with more resources and community support to fight drug-related crimes. If we are to win the war on drugs, everyone must understand that they have a role in the battle and in its success.

Works Cited

“Addiction Science.” National Institute On Drug Abuse. NIH. December 2012. Web. 12 April 2013. “International Statistics.” Foundation For A Drug Free World. 2008. Web. 12 April 2013.

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Problem and Solution: Drug Abuse Essay

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The Clean Slate Addiction Site

Addiction is not a disease.

Addiction: The Problem & The Solution

“Addiction”, in the broadest of terms, is what social do-gooders call some people’s propensity to keep using drugs (including alcohol) in a way that is costing them a lot, and/or causing troubles, and/or is generally outside of cultural norms for substance use.

The popular explanation pushed by these do-gooders is that this “addiction” is a state of compulsion, in which the drug user is involuntarily using drugs. They are compelled by something – anything really – as long as the explanation holds to the idea that the “addicts” aren’t choosing their drug use freely. Many potential “causes” of this addiction have been and will continue to be posited, such as poor impulse control, an addictive quality inherent in drugs, social disconnection, underlying mental illnesses, childhood trauma, a flood of cheap drugs on the market, genetic weaknesses, and of course a disease of the brain .

I completely reject this view, and will now present my view: what we call addiction is a fully volitional pattern of behavior based on learned preferences, and often complicated by addiction mythology.

People use drugs because they want to. They want to, because of the benefits they see in drugs – fun, pleasure, relief, lowered inhibitions, etc. They can see many benefits in drugs that may or may not be there – regardless, it is their own view of these benefits, as well as their view of the benefits of their other options, that determines their want of drugs – their desire, urges, or craving for drugs . Or, in far less words: people use drugs because they like to.

They like using drugs more than they like not using drugs; they like using drugs often more than they like using them less often. They like being intoxicated more than they like being sober. And we could say this a million different ways depending on the person – Johnny likes getting high better than he likes doing his homework; Jane likes getting drunk better than she likes taking the kids to their games; Bill likes doing cocaine with strippers more than he likes paying his mortgage; etc. People who use drugs in troubling ways prefer to do so. You can describe this from a negative angle – Susan feels uncomfortable in her skin when she’s sober – but that’s another way of saying she feels more comfortable drunk, i.e. she prefers being drunk.

I don’t want to get too sidetracked here, but I’m going to pause to make a note: this doesn’t mean they want or like the bad things that can come along with heavy substance use, such as diseases, destroyed relationships, legal troubles, etc. It doesn’t mean they want to cause pain. It doesn’t mean they are evil or immoral. It just means that given how they see their alternatives, they are willing to pay this price to use substances. It is possible to recognize that they are choosing what they are doing, and still have sympathy for them, given the fact that this is unfortunately how they’ve come to see their options, and that they may have low self-esteem issues or a “broken spirit” so to speak – for whatever reasons – that contributes to their perspective that some highly destructive pattern of substance use is the best that they can do. Their problem doesn’t have to be a disease or compulsion for us to have compassion for their situation. I’m done digressing here though, I could write volumes, but this paragraph is for those who are ready to say that this is an unsympathetic view. I promise it is not. I once preferred drugs in this way, and it cost me a lot personally. The most compassionate thing that was done for me, was when someone stopped making excuses for me, put it to me straight, and showed me I was capable of seeing it differently and improving my choices.

That “addicts” often appear and/or feel “stuck” making the same choices even when they end up disliking much about their drug use isn’t all that odd. There are people who absolutely hate their jobs, and could technically get different jobs – yet they don’t. They appear stuck to some. They sometimes feel stuck themselves, and will emphatically proclaim that they have to stay at this job and have no other options. Yet they aren’t technically stuck, and this situation almost perfectly mirrors drug addiction. They see the job they hate as their best option. They either don’t think anyone else will hire them; don’t think it’s worth a minor pay cut to get a more enjoyable job; like the low expectations of their current job and are afraid of having a new boss; they don’t want to make a move or longer commute for a different job; etc. However it all works out in the calculus of their view of available options, they feel stuck in their current dead end job – but the reality is that they prefer it over the alternatives. The same can be said of romantic relationships – I’ve used both these analogies often. The problematic drug user simply has a strong preference for drug use; he isn’t “addicted” in the popular sense of using substances involuntarily. He is always free to choose to use drugs or not.

The twofold problem of addiction

“Addicts” are just people who have a strong preference for drug use. They can change this preference, and most do eventually ( 9 out of 10 will , in their lifetime, even though less than 1 in 4 will receive treatment). Most people diagnosed as addicts “mature out” of addiction in their 20s or 30s, and most do this without professional help. They develop new life roles, new interests, and generally tire of heavy drug use, becoming more interested in devoting their time and energy into other things. That is to say, they cease to prefer it as strongly as they once did – they begin to prefer life with less or no drug use. This isn’t a process of treating, curing, fighting, or recovering from an addiction – it is a process of changing a preference. However, this very natural process of change can be blocked and complicated – arrested and dragged out, when people are taught that “recovering from addiction” is a lifelong battle.

Most “addicts” don’t ever feel addicted. That is to say, most don’t feel like they’re doing something they don’t want to do. As long as they see their preference for intoxication as their own desire based on their own views, change will be easy and natural, when they see that they’d be better off with less drug use. But if they somehow learn to see themselves as “addicted,” all bets are off, and change becomes a struggle. This is when they begin to feel like they are doing something they don’t want to do. Their preference for drug use gets re-interpreted as something foreign to them; something separate from their own hierarchy of wants; an outside force that needs to be controlled, battled, treated, resisted, et cetera.

So “addiction” then, is a twofold problem. The first part of the problem is that we prefer an activity that is becoming very costly , yet this part is simple. When WE SEE that our style of drug use costing more than it seems to be worth, we naturally look for a better option, some adjusted level of drug use and other use of our energy, and we naturally gravitate toward that option. If you suspect it’s no longer worth it, then change is simply a matter of asking yourself what would work better for you. This is an easy question to answer, and being sure of your answer, follow-through is also simple, and basically effortless. Change, from this perspective, isn’t a matter of battling to resist an ongoing want (or urges or cravings), it’s a matter of pursuing the more attractive, and thus more preferred option. But  the second part of the problem is that seeing yourself as addicted prevents you from implementing this simple solution of choosing differently; this addict identity leaves you fighting desire rather than changing it.

Once  you view your desire for drugs as an addiction, and thus see things through the lens of addiction mythology, it affects the way you experience numerous things, creating a whole slew of unnecessary difficulties and battles. This chart I made for The Freedom Model for Addictions: Escape the Treatment and Recovery Trap  (which is also used at The Freedom Model Retreats ) describes some of the ways things get distorted once we take on the identity of “addict”:

In other words, once we start to think of ourselves as “addicts” we psych ourselves out of easily changing. Everything becomes a battle. We become fragile – “triggered” by anything and everything. And most of all, we become distracted from simply figuring out what adjustment we could make to our substance use that would simply make us happier.

Yes, that’s right – fighting addiction stops you from changing . The reason is that you’re now fighting a non-existent thing, a boogieman. There is no foreign thing called an addiction that pushes you to want and to use drugs. There is just your own point of view on drugs that pushes you to want and to choose to use them. the only thing that will change your desire is the act of developing a new preference – that is, changing your perspective on your options, and coming to see some different level of use as truly more rewarding. Or, more plainly, making a new choice, the choice to look at your options differently.

Yet, you’re hung up on trying to resist your want. And so what do you do? Sit there focused on what should deter you from using. That is, you focus on the risks, costs, or downsides of your preferred activity of using alcohol or other drugs. And this doesn’t necessarily make less drug use look more preferable. You have known the costs of heavy substance use for a long time, and have already shown that you’re willing to pay that price. Why should focusing on the costs all of a sudden deter you at this point, if they haven’t deterred you up to now? They usually won’t, or if they do, the deterrence is usually short lived. You go back to heavy drug use for the same reasons you did it to begin with – because despite what it costs, it appears to be the most beneficial option you have available.

I can’t say this enough: trying to quit based on avoidance of costs, risks, or out of “shoulds” or thoughts like “I have to quit,” or out of shame is not effective. Here’s why:

If we do something stimulated solely by the urge to avoid shame, we will generally end up detesting it. -Marshall Rosenberg, Nonviolent Communication

We end up hating quitting because we failed to develop any positive reasons to do it. It’s just a chore to us. I hate chores. Most people do. I hate “duty” – the very term oozes “obligation.” I hate shame – it makes me feel bad ! These aren’t recipes for positive goal commitment.

These negative quit attempts often become a cycle of temporarily stopping or cutting down, and then returning to the same problematic level of use, leaving you feeling like more of a failure, and more stuck & addicted each time. The missing element is a positive vision, a new perspective where some modified level of use is seen as more rewarding. You won’t find this perspective while you’re simply trying to resist, and to deter yourself.

The twofold solution to addiction

Drug use is a positive choice. That is to say, it is a choice made in the pursuit of happiness. We have reasons we prefer and choose drug use – we see benefits in it. If you can see greater benefits in modifying your drug use, you will move on quickly and easily to that modified level of use (modified includes any number of conceptions of moderation, and abstinence). Pay attention to this: Knowing that it is a very costly behavior isn’t enough to make you change. People freely choose to pay a high price for many things they want in life every day, when there are much cheaper options clearly available. Do you need cable tv? Hell no. Is it expensive? Hell yes. Does that stop most homes from having it? No, it clearly doesn’t. Nor does an average cost of a quarter million dollars stop people from deciding to raise children. Nor does the existence of cheap bare-bones apartments stop people from choosing to buy luxury homes. Likewise, the fact that the option of abstinence lacks all of the costs of drug use, doesn’t stop people from using drugs. We get cable tv for the benefits we see in it, we raise kids for the benefits we see in it, and we buy luxury homes for the benefits we see in them – we do all of these things despite the high costs and the existence of far cheaper alternatives. These are all positive choices – that is, they are made in the pursuit of happiness.

There are plenty of troubling choices with costly tradeoffs that are nonetheless made in the pursuit of happiness. This quote from french philosopher Blaise Pascal sums it up well:

“All men seek happiness. This is without exception. Whatever different means they employ, they all tend to this end. The cause of some going to war, and of others avoiding it, is the same desire in both, attended with different views. The will never takes the least step but to this object. This is the motive of every action of every man, even of those who hang themselves.”

Don’t get hung up on the fact that drug use is a messy choice. There are plenty of behaviors we all recognize as free choices that are messy too. This is a natural struggle of being human. As long as you see your preference for drug use as a special problem called an “addiction”, then you won’t be approaching it in the right way. All of the mythology about addiction stands in the way of simply and directly choosing to change. So if you believe you are addicted, the best thing you can do is to rid yourself of this addiction & recovery mythology first – and get back to seeing yourself as doing what you want to do, being in control of yourself, and making your own choices.

The first challenge and part of the solution is to learn this: nothing outside of you causes you to use drugs, nor does a disease or weakness inside of  you cause you to choose drugs – it is a positive choice you make like any other, in the pursuit of happiness. We’ll call this part of the solution “escaping the addict identity.”

The second challenge and part of the solution is to reexamine the benefits of your preferred level of substance use, and to reexamine the benefits of some modified level of substance use. We’ll call this “the positive choice process.”

Part 2 isn’t always easy, but it’s simple. It doesn’t require strength, support, treatment, or the eradication of any “underlying causes of addiction” or avoidance of “triggers” etc – because those are all artifacts of addiction mythology. Part 2 just requires that you get beyond the addiction mythology, and have the willingness to look for better options, and try looking at your options differently than you have in the past. If you find that modified use is truly more appealing and preferable, change is then easy. If you don’t, then you can either seek out more information and perspectives on your options, or you can settle your mind that your current level of drug use is your best option, and stop beating yourself up over it. If upon further examination, it really is the thing you need to do to be happy, then there should be no further shame in it. It’s your life and your happiness, and you should do with it what seems best from your own judgment. Nobody could have a better handle on what will make you happy than you yourself.

Escaping the Addict Identity

Addiction mythology is taught to us from a young age, so even if you’ve never been to a treatment program or addiction support group, you’ve been exposed to it. All the self-doubt that you have about your ability to change comes from addiction & recovery mythology, and the addict identity it promotes. This website is mainly devoted to debunking this mythology, so that readers can return to a state of seeing their drug use preference as the product of their own thinking. It is designed to show people they don’t have to identify as addicts.

So, when people say to me “All you do is criticize, but where’s your solution?” I’m a little taken aback, because a major part of my solution is to understand that you aren’t in fact addicted – that you have full power of choice over your substance use, and the beliefs that fuel your desire for drugs. The main reason you feel like you can’t stop is because you’ve been taught that you can’t stop. There are countless facets of addiction mythology to be combatted, but some of the most important issues, as I see it, are that:

• There is no disease of addiction
• There is no such thing as loss of control / involuntary drug use
• Withdrawal is a side issue and doesn’t cause involuntary drug use
• There is no special support or treatment needed to choose to change a substance use habit/preference
• Your current substance use preference is by no means a permanent thing – that is, it’s not a “chronic” disease you’ll deal with forever. Your preferences are fluid, changing with experience, new information, new ideas, and awareness of new options.
• “Cravings” aren’t something you “get” or that “happen to you” – but rather an active thing you do by ideating about the benefits of drugs. You don’t “get cravings” – you crave. There is an important difference.

Anyone or thing that helps you to see these truths is helpful. That is, learning these things is at least half (or more) of the solution to a drug use problem. Once you stop approaching your drug use preference as an addiction, you become free to approach it as a true matter of positive choice. That is, becoming critical of oppressive addiction mythology and rejecting it, is the key thing you can do to stop feeling addicted. You would never have felt addicted in the first place if you didn’t learn the addiction mythology.

The Positive Choice Process

Once you stop seeing yourself as addicted, then you can look at your desire for substances for what it truly is: a preference for a costly activity. So you get to work at re-assessing whether it’s your most beneficial option. You can start by critically analyzing what you get out of drugs.

• The relief – does it really relieve the emotional pains you might’ve thought it relieved in the past?
• The excitement – is it still as exciting as it used to be, or have you done it enough now that it might be getting boring?
• The pleasure – is it really as pleasurable as you thought it was before – or does it just provide a tingly feeling?
• The social benefits – is it really necessary as a social lubricant or disinhibitor – or can you be fine without it? Is it possible those are just placebo effects? (they are!)

And there are more aspects of the perceived benefits of drug use that can be critically assessed. If you shorten the list of benefits, this can change your preference for drug use.

Then you can critically analyze the benefits of modified drug use (including both moderation & abstinence).

• independence
• new opportunities
• new pleasure and excitement in other things

As you look at modified use in these terms of benefits, then a modification of your use may genuinely begin to look more preferable to you than your current level of use. Again, the new element here has to be that your main focus is on the benefits of your various options rather than on the costs. We’ll pay anything for something we think we absolutely need and/or is our only good choice. Most people who feel like they must use drugs at high levels see lower levels of substance use as intolerable and a punishment. To happily and easily change, you must find a way to see modified use or abstinence as truly more rewarding than heavy use. Sometimes this takes some serious thought and soul-searching, depending on how beat down you are in spirit.

I can’t stress this enough though – once people know they aren’t addicted, it usually ends up being very easy and natural for them to find some change in use as more rewarding and preferable. This positive choice process happens almost naturally, since we are all constantly looking for greater happiness in life.

There you have it

All of the debunking of addiction mythology on this website is, in a sense, a solution. People want treatments, “tools”, techniques, medications, support systems, etc – they want big tangible solutions where something is done to the “addict” in some way, or the “addict” is given a clever process of some sort. No such thing is needed, and would be a further distraction from a real solution to heavy drug use. The solution is for you, the individual drug user, to figure out what level of drug use makes you happiest from your own judgment – and when you really know what that is, pursuing it requires no special strength. You don’t need people to “support” you – cheering you on to be abstinent or use moderately when these are things that you really want. So one of the top ways that I believe that I can help other people to do this is to clear away the confusing addiction mythology that convinces them to treat this as something other than a choice. Any feeling of being powerless or addicted is just a product of addiction & recovery mythology.

There you have it. This is my vision of the solution to “addiction.” People are always asking me for it, and I’ve said it implicitly all over the site, I’ve also said it much briefer in some places around this site too – but I thought I should have one page where I say it very clearly. It amounts to learning that you aren’t really addicted (nobody is) – you’ve just learned to interpret your preference as an addiction – and learning that you have full power to choose; and learning that the choice to change is a positive choice, rather than a negative choice. If you choose to simply resist your desire without reexamining what fuels it, then it will feel like a struggle, because your desire will be left intact. If you look for the happier option, and find it in modified use, it will be easy to follow through on, your desire will be changed.

Nobody is addicted, and thus nobody needs to recover. If people have a troubling preference for substance use, then they can change it by choosing to try a different level of substance use that may work better for them. It is a choice, plain and simple. Coming out of the fog of the addict identity, and realizing this, is one of the most liberating and exciting experiences I have ever had. I hope you have it too.

I know this page page leaves many questions unanswered, many nuances unexplained. If you are still confused and want to clear up your confusion so you can become an informed and empowered decision maker in regards to substance use and “addiction” I suggest you get my book The Freedom Model for Addictions: Escape the Treatment and Recovery Trap . I wrote it with Mark Scheeren, who co-founded the Saint Jude Retreats in 1992 and has been teaching a non-12-step, non-disease based way to overcome substance use problems for almost 30 years, and Michelle Dunbar, who’s been in the same organization for 20 years. These folks have incredible insights and experience in helping people with substance use problems. If you need to get away to a retreat environment to focus and learn, we offer that too, but the book will be enough for many people to get back on track.

A few notes

– People can still quit or reduce their use while believing they are an “addict” and believing that they have an “addiction.” It just so happens that that usually (not always) results in a painful change that’s hard to sustain. So I’m not saying it’s impossible to change your drug use while believing the mythology, but you should know that only a minority of people do it this way. 80-90% of people diagnosable as addicted do not get formal help; 96% of them say they “don’t think they need it”, which indicates that they probably don’t think of themselves as truly “addicted” (involuntarily using); and yet more than 90% of people get over their “addictions” anyway. So again, it’s only a handful of people who fully buy into the idea of being addicted and get over their problems with this belief system. Research also indicates that beliefe in the disease model of addiction increases the odds of “relapse.”

– Withdrawal syndrome may require professional medical help. Yet it still doesn’t compel people to use drugs.

– There are many nuances to my views and to to communicating them. I wrote this brief 4000 word overview in a few hours, but I have also been in the process of finishing a book that will be a few hundred pages and has taken a few years to write. I’m finding it hard to communicate all the intricacies of this perspective on addiction in a few hundred pages – which means it’s even harder in a few thousand words.

– Even many people who say “I don’t believe addiction is a disease” are knee deep in addiction mythology and don’t even realize it. For example, if you are seeking treatment for addiction, then you are under the cloud of addiction mythology. You think someone needs to work some magic on you to make you quit. That doesn’t need to happen – you just need to find a way to truly see a modified level of substance use as more preferable in order to successfully implement it.

– I will edit, modify, and update this page as I see fit, without notation. Always improving it for clarity when I can.

Essay on Drug Awareness

Students are often asked to write an essay on Drug Awareness in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Drug Awareness

Understanding drugs.

Drugs are substances that can change how your body and mind work. They can be legal, like medicine prescribed by a doctor, or illegal.

Effects of Drugs

Drugs can make you feel different. Some might make you feel happy for a short time, but they can also harm your body and brain.

The Risk of Addiction

Some people may start using drugs out of curiosity or to feel good, but it can lead to addiction. Addiction is when you can’t stop taking the drug, even if it’s causing harm.

Staying Safe

It’s important to say no to illegal drugs and only take medicines as directed by a doctor.

250 Words Essay on Drug Awareness

Introduction.

Drugs are substances that alter the body’s physiological processes. While some drugs are beneficial and used for medicinal purposes, others can be harmful, leading to addiction, health issues, and societal problems. Drug awareness is a crucial topic, especially for college students, as it is the foundation for understanding and preventing drug misuse.

The Importance of Drug Awareness

Drug awareness is essential to equip individuals with knowledge about the potential risks and consequences of drug use. It helps in understanding the difference between use and misuse, the signs of addiction, and the effects of drugs on physical and mental health. This knowledge can be a powerful tool in preventing drug misuse and addiction.

The Role of Education

Education plays a significant role in drug awareness. It is not only about imparting knowledge but also about fostering a healthy attitude towards drug use. Educational institutions, particularly colleges, hold a responsibility to provide students with accurate information, enabling them to make informed decisions.

In conclusion, drug awareness is a vital aspect of health education. It empowers individuals, especially college students, to make informed decisions about drug use, thus preventing potential misuse and addiction. The role of education in promoting drug awareness cannot be overstated, as it equips students with necessary knowledge and fosters a responsible attitude towards drug use.

500 Words Essay on Drug Awareness

The issue of drug abuse and addiction has become a global concern, with implications that transcend cultural, economic, and social boundaries. Drug awareness is a critical aspect in curbing this menace, as it equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to resist drug use, and encourages a healthier, safer society.

The Prevalence of Drug Abuse

The prevalence of drug abuse is alarming, with the World Health Organization estimating that nearly 5.5% of the world’s population aged 15-64 years have used drugs at least once in their lifetime. This statistic underscores the urgency for effective drug awareness programs. It is essential to understand the factors contributing to drug abuse, which include peer pressure, curiosity, stress, and the desire for escapism. These factors, coupled with the easy accessibility of drugs, create a potent recipe for addiction.

Drug awareness plays a crucial role in preventing drug abuse and addiction. Through education, individuals gain a better understanding of the dangers and implications of drug use. They learn about the harmful effects of drugs on physical health, mental health, and social relationships. Moreover, drug awareness programs can debunk myths surrounding drug use, such as the misconception that drug use is a victimless crime or that all drug users are morally weak.

Components of Effective Drug Awareness Programs

Effective drug awareness programs should be comprehensive, targeting various aspects of the drug abuse issue. Firstly, they should provide factual information about drugs, their effects, and the risks associated with their use. Secondly, they must equip individuals with the skills to resist peer pressure and make informed decisions. Lastly, these programs should provide support and resources for those struggling with addiction, emphasizing that recovery is possible and that help is available.

The Role of Society in Drug Awareness

Society plays a significant role in promoting drug awareness. Schools, workplaces, and communities can host awareness campaigns, workshops, and seminars. The media can also play an influential role in disseminating accurate information about drugs and addiction. Moreover, government policies can support drug awareness initiatives, providing funding and resources for these programs.

In conclusion, drug awareness is a crucial tool in the fight against drug abuse and addiction. By educating individuals about the realities of drug use and equipping them with the skills to resist it, we can foster a society that is healthier, safer, and more informed. It is a collective responsibility that requires the participation of all sectors of society, from the individual to the government. Through a concerted effort, we can make significant strides in addressing this global issue.

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Drug abuse: Problem and solution

IELTS essay Drug abuse: Problem and solution

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Essay on Drug Abuse

Here we have shared the Essay on Drug Abuse in detail so you can use it in your exam or assignment of 150, 250, 400, 500, or 1000 words.

You can use this Essay on Drug Abuse in any assignment or project whether you are in school (class 10th or 12th), college, or preparing for answer writing in competitive exams. 

Topics covered in this article.

Essay on Drug Abuse in 150 words

Essay on drug abuse in 250-300 words, essay on drug abuse in 500-1000 words.

Drug abuse is a global issue that poses serious risks to individuals and society. It involves the harmful and excessive use of drugs, leading to physical and mental health problems. Drug abuse can result in addiction, organ damage, cognitive impairment, and social and economic difficulties. Prevention efforts should focus on education, raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, and promoting healthy lifestyles. Access to quality healthcare and addiction treatment services is crucial for recovery. Strengthening law enforcement measures against drug trafficking is necessary to address the supply side of the problem. Creating supportive environments and opportunities for positive engagement can help prevent drug abuse. By taking collective action, we can combat drug abuse and build healthier communities.

Drug abuse is a growing global concern that poses significant risks to individuals, families, and communities. It refers to the excessive and harmful use of drugs, both legal and illegal, that have negative effects on physical and mental health.

Drug abuse has severe consequences for individuals and society. Physically, drug abuse can lead to addiction, damage vital organs, and increase the risk of overdose. Mentally, it can cause cognitive impairment, and psychological disorders, and deteriorate overall well-being. Additionally, drug abuse often leads to social and economic problems, such as strained relationships, loss of employment, and criminal activities.

Preventing drug abuse requires a multi-faceted approach. Education and awareness programs play a crucial role in informing individuals about the dangers of drug abuse and promoting healthy lifestyle choices. Access to quality healthcare and addiction treatment services is vital to help individuals recover from substance abuse. Strengthening law enforcement efforts to curb drug trafficking and promoting international cooperation is also essential to address the supply side of the issue.

Community support and a nurturing environment are critical in preventing drug abuse. Creating opportunities for individuals, especially young people, to engage in positive activities and providing social support systems can serve as protective factors against drug abuse.

In conclusion, drug abuse is a significant societal problem with detrimental effects on individuals and communities. It requires a comprehensive approach involving education, prevention, treatment, and enforcement. By addressing the root causes, raising awareness, and providing support to those affected, we can combat drug abuse and create a healthier and safer society for all.

Title: Drug Abuse – A Global Crisis Demanding Urgent Action

Introduction :

Drug abuse is a pressing global issue that poses significant risks to individuals, families, and communities. It refers to the excessive and harmful use of drugs, both legal and illegal, that have detrimental effects on physical and mental health. This essay explores the causes and consequences of drug abuse, the social and economic impact, prevention and treatment strategies, and the importance of raising awareness and fostering supportive communities in addressing this crisis.

Causes and Factors Contributing to Drug Abuse

Several factors contribute to drug abuse. Genetic predisposition, peer pressure, stress, trauma, and environmental influences play a role in initiating substance use. The availability and accessibility of drugs, as well as societal norms and cultural acceptance, also influence drug abuse patterns. Additionally, underlying mental health issues and co-occurring disorders can drive individuals to self-medicate with drugs.

Consequences of Drug Abuse

Drug abuse has devastating consequences on individuals and society. Physically, drug abuse can lead to addiction, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. Substance abuse affects vital organs, impairs cognitive function, and increases the risk of accidents and injuries. Mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis, are often associated with drug abuse. Substance abuse also takes a toll on relationships, leading to strained family dynamics, social isolation, and financial instability. The social and economic costs of drug abuse include increased healthcare expenses, decreased productivity, and the burden on criminal justice systems.

Prevention and Education

Preventing drug abuse requires a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach. Education and awareness programs are essential in schools, communities, and the media to inform individuals about the risks and consequences of drug abuse. Promoting healthy coping mechanisms, stress management skills, and decision-making abilities can empower individuals to resist peer pressure and make informed choices. Early intervention programs that identify at-risk individuals and provide support and resources are crucial in preventing substance abuse.

Treatment and Recovery

Access to quality healthcare and evidence-based addiction treatment is vital in addressing drug abuse. Treatment options include detoxification, counseling, behavioral therapies, and medication-assisted treatments. Rehabilitation centers, support groups, and outpatient programs provide a continuum of care for individuals seeking recovery. Holistic approaches, such as addressing co-occurring mental health disorders and promoting healthy lifestyles, contribute to successful long-term recovery. Support from family, friends, and communities plays a significant role in sustaining recovery and preventing relapse.

Law Enforcement and Drug Policies

Effective law enforcement efforts are necessary to disrupt drug trafficking and dismantle illicit drug networks. International cooperation and collaboration are crucial in combating the global drug trade. Additionally, drug policies should focus on a balanced approach that combines law enforcement with prevention, treatment, and harm reduction strategies. Shifting the emphasis from punitive measures toward prevention and rehabilitation can lead to more effective outcomes.

Creating Supportive Communities:

Fostering supportive communities is vital in addressing drug abuse. Communities should provide resources, social support networks, and opportunities for positive engagement. This includes promoting healthy recreational activities, providing vocational training, and creating safe spaces for individuals in recovery. Reducing the stigma associated with drug abuse and encouraging empathy and understanding are crucial to building a compassionate and supportive environment.

Conclusion :

Drug abuse remains a complex and multifaceted issue with far-reaching consequences. By addressing the causes, raising awareness, implementing preventive measures, providing quality treatment and support services, and fostering supportive communities, we can combat drug abuse and alleviate its impact. It requires collaboration and a collective effort from individuals, communities, governments, and organizations to build a society that is resilient against the scourge of drug abuse. Through education, prevention, treatment, and compassion, we can pave the way toward a healthier and drug-free future.

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Home — Essay Samples — Nursing & Health — Drug Addiction — Understanding the Effects and Solutions of Drug Abuse

Understanding The Effects and Solutions of Drug Abuse

• Categories: Drug Addiction

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Published: Jan 31, 2024

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Definition and classification, causes and risk factors, impact on individuals, impact on society, prevention and treatment.

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Painful Truth Campaign encourages non-opioid solutions for pain relief

by Holly Menino, KOMO News Anchor

SEATTLE — The United States makes up around 4% of the world’s population, but it consumes more than 80% of the world’s opioids.

Mothers Against Prescription Drug Abuse and Aleve have launched a campaign called The Painful Truth for that very reason.

At 12 years old, Matt Robinson was introduced to opioids following an injury.

"A lot of people are introduced to opioids in this way," Robinson said. "We have an injury. We go to a doctor. We're given a prescription. There's not a lot of of discussion about it and, before you know it, you're hooked. That was my experience."

Like so many hooked on opioids, his addiction controlled him.

"I remember leaving my 5-month-old daughter in the car on Christmas Day while I went upstairs to a drug dealer's house to get pills," Robinson said. "This is where it took me."

Robinson said after 10 years of addiction, he checked himself into treatment.

"For some reason here in the U.S. we are prescribed far more opioids then the rest of the world," former Congresswoman Mary Bono said.

In 2011, Bono helped create Mothers Against Prescription Drug Abuse with three mothers who lost children or loved ones to a prescription overdose. In partnership with Aleve, they launched the Painful Truth Campaign to encourage people to explore non-addictive pain relief options with their doctor.

"I think we should be empowered to simply ask our doctor what are the options," Bono said. "What are the non-addictive options for me and where can I get them?"

Robinson is the voice of the campaign, sharing his story about his experience and helping others choose a different path from his own.

"I deal with a great deal of pain every day; nothing I can't manage with over-the-counter drugs, rest, ice, holistic methods," Robinson said. "I do stretching, I do yoga, physical therapy, non-addictive, non-dangerous or life-threatening methods of pain treatment."

Robinson said there still needs to be more conversation around options and alternatives to pain treatment.