by Rower Girl

Created on: May 17, 2009   Last Updated: May 27, 2009

WHAT IS DRUG ABUSE?

Drug abuse is defined as "an addiction to drugs" or "substance abuse involving drugs" (www.dictionary.com). It is a horrifying disease that claims thousands of lives of children, teens and adults each year. Below, you will find an overview of the psychological effects of drug abuse on the user, drug abuse and family life, and lastly, links to several well-known drug programs for those seeking treatment of drug abuse for themselves, friends, or family.

DRUG ABUSE AND ITS EFFECTS ON THE USER

Drug abuse is not just an "addiction". Drug abuse is psychological. It is a disease. Once hooked on drugs, any drug, the user is enveloped in a world of self-hatred, blame, and the constant want of more drugs. Drugs become the user's world, while everything else in their life that mattered is now standing by the wayside. By default, the user becomes selfish ("me, myself, and I") and will do anything to "score" their drug of choice; even if it means putting themselves in harm's way. What a user thinks is the right thing to do is actually the drug coaxing them into thinking that. The drug becomes their child of sorts, and all they want to do is protect it.

DRUG ABUSE AND FAMILY LIFE

Living with a drug abuser draws a thin line on everything that happens within the household. Drug abuse constantly keeps the user isolated, depressed, and brimming with anger and fear at anyone and everyone who knows or finds out about their "secret". As part of his/her family or friends, you are probably just trying to keep your home and relationships with the user and others from falling apart or from further deterioration. You are probably exhausted from watching the user suffer time and time again with his/her drug abuse, coming in and out of drug programs. You are probably also constantly heart broken from watching him/her fail to overcome it. Don't worry. These reactions are completely normal.

Living with a drug abuser is like living with an infant; you are constantly pressured by them to take care of them (and help their drug habit) and comply with their every wish. But, in this instance, you mustn't. In order to help them recover, you have to show the user tough love and "just say no" when and if they ask you to help them score drugs or to help their abuse progress in any way. It is then your turn to put on the pressure and help them help themselves by pleading with them to go to a drug program (or more if necessary). Tell them you will stand by them every

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