Throughout recorded history the phenomenon of drug addiction, be it depressants such as barbiturates, stimulants like cocaine, or opioids including heroin and morphine, has prevailed through many varying social and economic influences. Contributing factors that have exacerbated the problem of substance dependency in the 20th century include modernized agricultural practices, advances in accessibility to drugs, upgrades in the field of biochemistry, and startling increases in the recommendation of drug usage advocated and prescribed by clinical practitioners.
Cost
Improved manufacturing methods that introduce synthetic compounds, such as methamphetamine, is also a factor that has vastly amplified individuals routine use, and subsequent abuse, of narcotics. People of any age, race or economic status can be crippled by a dependency to narcotics during their lives. Estimates of the total overall costs of substance abuse in the United States, including productivity, health, and crime-related costs, exceed 600 billion dollars annually.
Consequences
The impact that drug addiction has on modern society is staggering. There are many consequences society must deal with relating to drug addiction. These problems include family disintegration, academic failure, lost employment, domestic violence, and child abuse.
Uncontrollability
Once a person begins using a drug recreationally they can develop an addiction before they know it. Soon, they become dependent on the effects the drugs have on them and they are unable to function without them. It is very important for an individual who has developed an addiction to seek out medical counseling.
Causes
A person can develop a drug addiction due to many varying factors. Like other psychological disorders, an individual’s likelihood for developing a drug addiction can depend on many different environmental factors. For example, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and attention-deficit disorder can all be precursors for a drug addiction. The effects of family, peers, and genetics also play a large part into whether or not a person will develop a drug dependency during their lifetime.
Research
Research has shown that addiction may be influenced by specific, inherited traits. Scientists have determined men are twice as likely as women to develop an addiction to drugs. Drug addiction is a problem society must deal with. However, it is unclear whether or not laws against non-violent drug users do anything substantial to curb drug usage.
The drug rehabilitation centers are a great tool for helping end drug addiction. They help individuals come to terms with their addiction and help them begin to fight it. These centers, staffed with medical professionals, offer tailor made programs to help people get over their addictions. There are even specific women’s programs, programs for men, and young adults who struggle with addiction. These rehab centers are extremely valuable in the fight against drug addiction.