Problems of Drug Dependence
Abusing drugs is a problem that is all too common in America. A number of problems may come about because of a person's drug dependence, whether the person realizes it or not.
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Significance
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Drug dependence is an important societal concern because it affects not only the dependent individual, but his family, community and the population at large. Drug dependence has a major impact on the health-care system and has financial repercussions on community agencies, such as law enforcement and social services.
Types
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Problems of drug dependence include those regarding the individual's health, the welfare of the family and children involved, the financial burden on society in general and the increase in crime in the person's community.
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Features
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Characteristics of drug dependence include a distorted view of oneself, major emotional problems, erratic behavior and deterioration of the body. These factors all have the potential to cause a wide variety of problems in the person's life, including loss of job, disease, familial discord and criminal behavior.
Potential
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The physical problems of drug dependence may lead to serious illness or even death. Examples include organ failure and brain injury due to exposure to toxic drugs. Also, the problems that come from socializing with drug users may lead to criminal activities, which may end in death or jail time. Emotional problems and erratic behavior may also be a deadly combination.
Prevention and Solution
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Identifying risk factors and protective factors is imperative to preventing the beginnings of substance abuse in children and teens. For adults, prevention often comes after the problem has been recognized, so cutting off ties with drug-using friends is ideal to preventing recurrence. A detoxification program or rehabilitation program may be in order. The support and love of family and non-using friends can also go a long way.
Misconceptions
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Drug dependence is often viewed as a personal problem that is within the abuser's control. Addiction has been shown to be a disease; it is not easy for a person to just "snap out of it" as many people may believe. Extensive therapy and medical intervention are often necessary for rehabilitation.
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