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Should Addiction Be Viewed as a Disease?

More from our inbox:, conservatives and climate change, those undeserving of political donations, olympians, join the rest of us, my refuge: shooting hoops.

argumentative essays about drug abuse

To the Editor:

Re “ Calling Addiction a Disease Is Misleading ,” by Carl Erik Fisher (Opinion guest essay, Sunday Review, Jan. 16):

Dr. Fisher’s opinion piece about addiction was misleading and polarizing. His arguments ignore decades of biomedical and behavioral research that have taught so much about the nature of substance use disorder, as it is now called, and what to do about it.

First, the originators of the concept did not say that addiction is only a brain disease; we acknowledged how important behavioral and social elements are to its development and to recovery.

Moreover, the concept that substance use disorder is a brain disease does not at all imply that “drugs hold all the power.” No one would ever assert, for example, that people are powerless to affect their hypertension or diabetes by changing their behavior, as well as taking their medicine.

Let’s not revert to an outdated conception of the drug problem as only either biological or behavioral and ignore the decades of scientific research that have led to combined treatments and policy approaches that work far better than either alone.

Alan I. Leshner Potomac, Md. The writer is former director (1994-2001) of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health.

Dr. Carl Erik Fisher is correct in arguing that thinking of addiction as a disease has the risk of simplifying a very complex interaction of factors, overemphasizing the biological factors at the expense of the myriad social and psychological factors that are also major contributors to addiction.

However, emphasizing the fact that addiction, like other mental disorders such as depression, has a significant biological component has served to reduce the stigma and shame surrounding addiction and increased individuals’ willingness to seek treatment.

While the pendulum has perhaps swung so far in the direction of biology that other important factors are being overlooked, it is important not to jeopardize the headway made over the past 50 years.

Michael B. First Richard B. Kruger New York The writers are doctors with the Columbia University Department of Psychiatry. Dr. First is the editor of the forthcoming Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5 text revision.

Dr. Carl Erik Fisher did not mention the most important reason that alcoholism was classified as a disease. Before Alcoholics Anonymous, alcoholism was widely considered a human failing, a weakness of character, a sin. These people could stop drinking if they wanted to!

But this was not true. Many wanted to stop but could not. By defining alcoholism as a disease the shame of being an alcoholic was removed. No longer were alcoholics seen as morally deficient. Alcoholism/addiction has nothing to do with morals.

This understanding of addiction as a disease has opened the door of recovery wide to many of us who may not have sought help for an affliction if we thought we should be able to “fix” it by ourselves — by just being “better” people. We are not bad people. We are sick people, deserving of help. Classifying addiction as a disease does not narrow the opportunities for healing; it expands them.

Vanessa S. Oakland, Calif. The writer, 35 years sober, requested anonymity in keeping with A.A.’s tradition.

I believe that Dr. Carl Erik Fisher is correct in his view that addiction is not just one thing, which is to say “a disease.” There are certainly medical elements, for example our imperfect but growing understanding of the genetics of addictive behavior. But, in essence, addiction must still be seen and treated as a behavior . And, as with most behaviors, addiction has huge sociologic and economic inputs.

By making medicine the principal portal for accessing treatment of any harmful behavior is to seriously tie our hands as a society seeking a cure. As a practicing physician of 40 years, I might feel differently if we had had more success treating behavioral problems as medical problems. We’ve had our chance.

John R. Bennett Snohomish, Wash.

Having lost a father (to alcoholism), a sister (to smoking cigarettes and alcoholism) and a son (to opioid addiction), I believe it would be a tremendous boon if research could determine the difference between those who can be treated successfully for their addiction and those who are not helped by the current methods of treatment.

Dr. Carl Erik Fisher concludes by saying that dropping the idea of disease and opening a fuller picture of addiction will allow for more nuance, care and compassion. I think there is an abundance of those currently. What is needed is an understanding of the biology and differences that lead to addiction as a death sentence for some and a chronic disease for others.

Amie Schantz Arlington, Mass.

One of the important reasons to call addiction a disease is that it reframes the discussion away from the court system/incarceration and toward treatment. This is extremely important as the United States leads the world in incarceration , much of which is related to illicit drug use or trade.

Steven Persky Marina del Rey, Calif.

Re “ U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Bounced Back Sharply in 2021 ” (news article, Jan. 10):

Many Republicans oppose Build Back Better simply because the Democrats support it, others because it limits coal and oil industries, which they perceive as critical to their states. But many oppose it because it is a key culture war issue.

It and other initiatives like the Green New Deal represent the things conservatives fear most: change, a substitution of a new order for the old, and the possibility that they will lose their hard-earned place in the world.

Despite the climate disasters of the past year, programs that limit greenhouse gas emissions are going nowhere. The fact that the recovery of the economy is so closely tied to a rise in greenhouse gases is sobering and deeply worrying.

Climate change will soon be a problem so large that even conservatives won’t be able to deny it. Whether we will then be able to do anything about it remains to be seen.

Tim Shaw Cambridge, Mass.

Re “ After Jan. 6, Donor Pause Was Short ” (Business, Jan. 7):

As the former chair of a major biopharmaceutical company’s political action committee and general counsel of the industry’s principal trade association, I appreciate the importance of making contributions to supportive lawmakers, regardless of their positions on unrelated issues.

However, the continuing strength of our democracy and the rule of law are not unrelated matters. They are as vital to the industry as prices and patents. No contributions should be made to lawmakers who refuse to recognize and act on the threats to our Constitution.

Bruce Kuhlik Washington The writer is former general counsel of Merck & Co. and of the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America.

Re “ To Avoid Virus, Olympians Bend Over Backward ” (front page, Jan. 24):

I chuckled with recognition at the extensive restrictions that Olympic athletes are putting on themselves to avoid being infected with Covid-19 before the Games begin next month. That’s how we seniors have been living for nearly two years! I believe we deserve a medal.

Debbie Duncan Stanford, Calif.

Dan Barry’s contemplative, healing story of outdoor solo basketball in wintertime resonates with my lifetime passion for the sport (“ A Story of Covid Exile, Told in Never-Ending Arcs, ” Sports, Jan. 18). The rhythm of shoot-miss/shoot-swish soothes my soul in times both good and troubled.

This phenomenon reached an unprecedented high a decade ago. After receiving a lifesaving stem transplant, I was confined to weeks of isolation to prevent post-procedure infection. Solo basketball on a neighborhood court was my refuge.

During my first outing, even as I missed most shots, I was overcome with the emotion of a medical procedure enabled by an anonymous donor, a young college student whom I would meet in person a year later. Weeping profusely, with the hoop as my witness, I shot my heart out, overcome with gratitude for life and for every shot, made and missed.

Now a septuagenarian, I continue to play solo in frigid weather, warmed by the hoop and ball that have been my companions during the ebb and flow over decades of a life well lived.

Allen White Brookline, Mass.

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Drug Abuse (Argumentative Essay Sample)

The level of drug abuse in the US has increased a lot hence leading to the creation of whether some drugs should be legalized in the country or not. The common notion of drug abuse is that it leads to negative impacts in the body and thinking of the person involved. As a result, it can be argued out that drug abuse is harmful to human beings and should be avoided at all cost despite the fact some people still think that drug abuse is harmless.

One of the main reasons as to why drug abuse should be dealt with accordingly is that it results to the destruction of the brain cells of the user. As a result, this could lead to serious medical disorders and cancer which impair the daily thinking of that individual. In turn, they end up wasted to a point whereby they can operate without the use of such drugs hence resulting to a confinement in rehabilitation centers or hospitals for the mentally ill. Research shows that the most affected population is the youth and this leads into wastage of their most important age in their lives which could have been used in career development.

In addition, drug abuse is harmful because it promotes the spreading of harmful diseases through drugs that have to be injected directly in the body. In most cases, the abusers find themselves in a situation of sharing the same injection to get the drugs in their body. Among the disease transmitted could be HIV/AID and this leads to a permanent change in an individual’s life.

Drug abuse is harmful because to the entire society because it reduces the number of individuals who could have played important roles in building of the society. As well, most of the drug abusers turn into criminals in an attempt to look for money that they would use to buy the drugs. This threatens the society because such criminal activities involve murder and sometimes rape. Hence drug abuse is harmful.

On the other hand, it can be argued out that drug abuse is not harmful because and people use them in order to feel good and have fun. As a result of this argument, some people are advocating for the legalization of particular drugs such as weed claiming that such drugs will result to a reduction in the levels of criminal activities. Most people go to jail after being convicted for the possession of illegal drugs. This means that their lives end up being wasted in jail instead of doing constructive things that will lead to the creation of a bright future. Therefore, drug abuse is not harmful and given the permission, people would realize the need to take limited amounts of the drugs.

Concisely, the harmful effects of drug abuse out do the harmless effects. Therefore, it becomes the obligation of the society to come up with ways that aid in the reduction in the levels of drug abuse in order to help in the process of saving the youth since they will be tomorrow’s leaders. Among such ways is the development of rehabilitation centers to aid in cancelling drug abusers and talk them out of drug abuse. As well, the development of youth projects would keep them busy hence reducing their chances of abusing drugs. Hence, drug abuse causes more harm than good.

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argumentative essays about drug abuse

Drug Abuse - Free Essay Examples And Topic Ideas

Drug abuse, the chronic or habitual use of drugs to alter one’s mood, emotion, or state of consciousness, is a severe social and health issue. Essays on drug abuse could explore the causes and consequences of drug abuse, the various types and classifications of drugs, and the societal reactions to drug abuse. Discussions might also cover prevention and treatment strategies, the portrayal of drug abuse in media and literature, and the ongoing efforts by governments and organizations to combat drug abuse and its detrimental effects. We’ve gathered an extensive assortment of free essay samples on the topic of Drug Abuse you can find at Papersowl. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

What are some Solutions to Drug Abuse?

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 […]

Teenage Drug Abuse

There is a major concern about the teenage drug use today. Within the ages 15 through 24, fifty percent of deaths (from homicides, accidents, suicides) involve drugs. The two common reasons why teens use drugs are anxiety and depression. Factors like peer pressure, desire to escape, curiosity, emotional struggles, and stress may also lead to the consumption of drugs or alcohol. Teens are more likely to abuse drugs than adults because the part of their brain used for judgment and […]

Drug Addictions

Drug addictions are something that many people in America face. A lot of families today face a person who is a drug addict or an alcoholic and this is breaking up families. People can help people addicted to drugs by providing community support, education,and teaching drug addicts how to deal with stress after overcoming addiction. Community and support groups are a great ways and opportunities for recovering addicts to be able to meet and befriend people who are also going […]

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Poverty and Drug Abuse Addiction

One popular stereotype associated with drug use is that it is rampant among the poor. However, this is not entirely true since insufficient money linked with the poor cannot probably sustain drug use. The link between the two factors is multifaceted, and the connectedness of poverty is complex. Poverty entails unstable family and interpersonal associations, low-skilled jobs and low status, high arrest degrees, illegitimacy, school dropping out, deprived physical health, high mental conditions, and high mortality rates. Such factors resemble […]

Background on Drug Abuse

Drug abuse has been around for as long as the world has been created. Drug abuse dates back to the early 5000 B.C. when the Sumerians used opium, suggested by the fact that they have an ideogram for it which has been translated as HUL, meaning joy or rejoicing (Lindesmith, 2008). It then occurred often later on because indigenous South Americans chewed on coca leaves in the rainforest as a type of ritual, giving them stimulation and energy. Since then, […]

Drug Testing

For every student who complains that drug testing is an invasion of his or hers privacy we can show you a hundred parents who have lost their children to drugs. With drug testing students get a safe place where they can learn. Even the teachers are better off with this, because with less drugs schools are much safer. Should High School students or even college students be routinely tested for drug use? Before you answer think about this as a […]

Drug Abuse in Sports

Drug abuse occurs in all sports and at most levels of competition. Athletic life may lead to drug abuse for a number of reasons,, to self-treat injuries, and retirement from sport. Most sport organizations ban the use of any drug that can help your ability to excel in any sport. Using enhancing drugs, always have side effects like easy to anger, depression, and even death. Today people may know that athletes use steroids and performance-enhancing drugs, but it is only […]

Drug Abuse – Destructive Pattern

Drug abuse is the destructive pattern of using substances that leads to uncounted problems and diseases in the human body. It is a physical and psychological term which takes dependence on human activities. Drugs create bad effects on human life like anxiety, impaired social relations, depression, hopelessness, rejection etc. Impaired social relations and suicide are considered the worst consequences of addiction. The drugs have negative consequences on one's life. If the addicts were able to see the reality of their […]

The Truth about Drugs – Illegal Drugs

A close amount of 280 million people consume illegal drugs. The most commonly used illegal drug is marijuana or weed. According to the United Nations 2008 World Drug Report close to 3.9% of the earth's population between the ages of 15 and 64 abuse marijuana. Many teenagers and adults abuse drugs everyday. According to many sources a lot of people who let drugs control their lives have turned their life around and made a successful life. While others are still […]

Drug Abuse in the United States

Drug abuse in the United States has long been a topical issue and persists even today. Many different reasons make people get addicted as well as different levels to which people get dependent on drugs. Opioid use and abuse may start out of curiosity while others take them as prescribed medication for treatment but in the long run, they get addicted. In the United States, many people label Opioid addiction as a health problem rather than drug addiction. The reason […]

Effects of Drug Abuse on Families

Abstract In the USA, the family units have emerged to much complicated. Families continue to evolve ranging from the extended, nuclear and up to the single parenting family setups. Others are the stepfamilies, multigenerational and the foster types of families. Thus, abuse by a member of the family of substances may result in differences based on the formation of the family itself. This paper presents a discussion on the issues of treatment that may emerge within the various structures of […]

Drugs – Escape from Reality

Who wants to escape from reality? You must go for Drugs then. A phenomenon used by all fools in today's world. Drug abuse is when one misuses the drugs in a harmful way. Drug addiction is harmful not only for the addicted but also has a lot of negative effects on society. There is no country in the world where such a problem doesn't exist. Today this issue is often being discussed by doctors who claim that dope abuse mainly […]

Drug Abuse Prevention and Control

The deep, energetic and sonorous voice of Whitney Houston that graced our ears will truly be missed. She was found dead in her house as a result of cocaine overdose. She was about 48 when she died. So will young Mac Miller and Lil Peep- talented celebrities who died of accidental fentanyl overdose at a very young age. Their stories, we heard due to the status they have achieved in the society. There are millions of other young people all […]

Drug Abuse in the Community i Live in

The overwhelming problem of drug abuse in Decatur, Illinois has developed into a major issue. For example, Heroin, crack cocaine, powder cocaine, prescription opioids, marijuana, and meth are being sold and used at an epidemic rate. Some cities drug problems might be worse than Decatur's, however, for the small size of this city, the drug abuse is phenomenal. Although some people might not see drug addiction as an illness, people are not drug addicts by choice, but after trying the […]

Drug Abuse and Overdosing Deaths

Drug abuse and overdosing are a grave issue that is affecting the nation. The death rate has increased intensely in recent years in United States due to Overdosing on drugs with number of deaths doubling every nine years including accidental and unintentional deaths. (Cunningham, 2018). The abuse and dependence to opioids- including heroin, fentanyl, and prescription drugs for pain relief is a serious nationwide catastrophe that disturbs communal health and as well as economical, psychological, social, and physiological welfare. The […]

The Drug Abuse Across the United States of America

The drug abuse across the United States of America has been noticed as a tremendous problem since the past thirty years, whether it being the use of prescription drugs or illicit drugs. According to the annual National Survey on Drug Use and Health, (NIDA, 2015) it is estimated that 24.6 million Americans, in 2013, from ages twelve and older had used illicit drugs. Americans generally take drugs for variety reasons, that being to feel better, be better, or do better. […]

Most Drugs and Medicated Substances Can be Beneficial

People do misuse drugs and medications. Drug abuse occurs when an individual excessively exploits a drug or medication outside of its original function, which could result in harm to the user, their families, and even their community (Huffman & Dowdell, 2015). Abusing drugs can cause hazardous consequences that will affect a person from a biological, psychological, and social standpoint. Fortunately, drug abuse can be prevented and treated. The Foundation Recovery Network (2018) expresses that drug abuse and drug addiction are […]

Effects of Parental Alcoholism and Drug Abuse on Teens

Addiction is a word very common in our day to day lives, but not very many people actually know what it is or how to treat it. It is an individualistic disease that can infect everybody, not just a certain group of people, with damages that can ripple through families for years to come. Addiction within parents can have effects lasting lifetimes within the family and can also have a huge societal impact. For many, addiction is a scary word, […]

Student: Drug Abuse, Struggle, and Health Risks.

Today’s student faces many risks, including drug abuse, struggle, and health risks. Reacting to these risks before they become more serious dilemmas can be difficult. One of the purposes of dealing with drug abuse is to encourage the public to understand the causes of drug abuse and to prevent its onset. Drug abuse has serious consequences in our homes, schools, and communities. The use of all illegal drugs and the inappropriate use of licit drugs is considered drug abuse. Teens […]

Drug Abuse Among Students

Medication manhandle is these days one of the gravest social damages. Late years have encountered an extreme ascent in sedate manhandle among school and college understudies. In America today, more people struggle with some kind of addiction to drugs than in the past. Alcohol use is high among college students and places them at risk for health problems, injuries, and poor academic performance. Drugs have a chemical effect that damage the brain and body. Drugs have shown to interfere with […]

The Correlation between Adult Drug Abusers and Children

The National Institute on drug abuse estimates that a quarter of children in the U.S. grow up in households where there is substance abuse. It makes them 8 times more likely to develop an addiction of their own. Many children are unfortunate enough to have to pay the consequences that drug abusing adults indirectly throw at them. Many of these children grow up to be adults who have, over time, developed the same habits. Others have no control over the […]

Substance Abuse and Development

Substance abuse can be defined as the overindulgence in addictive substance or the reliance on an addictive substance, especially illicit drugs like crystal methamphetamine and others. Methamphetamine, or meth, as it is popularly called is a highly addictive stimulant that creates a feeling of energy, heightened alertness and euphoria. It is synthetically prepared, using toxic and flammable chemicals and side effects include irregular and rapid heartbeat, hyperthermia, convulsions, stroke, insomnia, high blood pressure, restlessness, and tremors . Meth can be […]

Prescription Drug Abuse

In reading the articles 'Nonmedical Prescription Drug Use Among US Young Adults by Educational Attainment,' 'Ethnic/Racial Differences in Peer and Parent Influence on Adolescent Prescription Drug Misuse,' and 'Influences of Motivational Contexts on Prescription Drug Misuse and Related Drug Problems', they all highlight the misuse of prescription drug use by young adults. Each article provides its unique interpretation of studies concerning how and why youth misuse prescription drugs on an ethnic level. The articles also discuss the risks of prescription […]

Drug Abuse in Athletes

Is taking drugs to boost yourself up just to win or maybe even break a record really worth losing your career over? All the hard work you put in over the years, just for it to be taken away from you in a second over performance enhancing drugs because you wanted to win. Maybe your injury was so bad that you need to use illegal drugs to cure it without doctor orders. As a result, to this you could risk […]

Investigation of the Effects of Drug Abuse

ABSTRACT In investigation of the effects of drug abuse on adolescents' academic performance various theoretical perspectives were utilized and strategies to curb drug use were also identified. The study was conducted in Triangle: Chiredzi; Masvingo Province of Zimbabwe. The participants were from 3 High schools. The students' ages were ranging from 12 to 21 years. A descriptive survey design combining both qualitative and quantitative research strategies was employed. The researcher used a purposive sampling technique. The sample size represented 10% […]

The Truth of Drug Abuse

As Nathan Driskell once said, Addiction is the only prison where the locks are on the inside. Addiction is a common issue and numerous people don't realize. Over twenty million Americans under the age of 18 are already addicted to a drug. Drug abuse is a major concern despite a person's race, gender, national origin, ethnicity, social status, or religion. Addictions can affect anyone and can be caused by a variety of reasons. To overcome an addiction and staying drug […]

People with an Addiction have a Mental Illness

6.8 million people with an addiction have a mental illness. When people think about addictions they automatically think about a drug addiction. Although it is the most common addiction in America, there are plenty of other addictions. For example, Food addiction, video game addiction, working addiction, and an exercising addiction just to name a few. An addiction is abusing the use of a substance and that can be bad for you if you use too much of it. There are […]

What is Drug and Drug Abuse?

Drugs are substances that can affect the body’s function either physically or mentally, and also kill many cells in our body when we consume them. There are many factors that contribute to drug addiction. One of these factors is peer pressure. Many people succumb to peer pressure, but this is particularly prevalent among teenagers and children, as they are not yet mature mentally, and tend to emulate their surroundings. As an example, if a person has loved ones or friends […]

Reflection of Motivation of Early Dropout from Drug Abuse Treatment

The correlation between early dropout addicts and lack of motivation. Simpson created three scales used to determine the stages of cognitive treatment. Simpson and Joe constructed a theory that different lifestyles can influence how the client will succeed in the treatment program. This study's motive is to test the accuracy of three motivation levels for early treatment dropouts. This study consist of 311 clients, addicts, with diverse socio demographics that are located in Corpus Christi, Dallas, And Houston. The clients […]

Drug Abuse: War on Drugs

Drug abuse has been happening over so many years and it’s bad for our community. A drug isn't a good thing to mess with it understandable if its used for reasonable reasons but more than needed is drug abuse. Some people disagree with this and opposed to other side drugs are good for our community. Many people coming back from the war will be addicted to drugs and alcohol due to the massage amount of drugs that is given to […]

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How To Write an Essay About Drug Abuse

Understanding the complexity of drug abuse.

When tackling an essay about drug abuse, it's essential to first comprehend the intricacies of the topic. Drug abuse, a prevalent issue globally, involves the chronic or habitual use of drugs for non-medical purposes, leading to health hazards and socio-economic problems. In your introduction, define drug abuse and distinguish it from drug use and addiction. Address the multifaceted nature of the issue, encompassing psychological, physiological, and societal dimensions. This foundation is crucial for guiding your exploration of drug abuse, its causes, effects, and potential solutions. Recognizing the sensitivity and complexity of this topic is key to writing an insightful and respectful essay.

Analyzing Causes and Effects

The body of your essay should delve into the causes and effects of drug abuse. Explore the various factors that can lead to drug abuse, such as psychological distress, peer pressure, socio-economic status, and exposure to drugs in the family or community. Then, discuss the ramifications of drug abuse on individuals, families, and society. These effects can include health issues, strained relationships, financial problems, and societal costs like increased crime and healthcare expenses. Use specific examples and data to support your points, while maintaining a compassionate tone, acknowledging that individuals suffering from drug abuse often face a complex interplay of challenges.

Addressing Prevention and Treatment

In this section, shift your focus to prevention and treatment strategies for drug abuse. Discuss different approaches to preventing drug abuse, such as education and awareness programs, policy changes, and community support initiatives. Then, examine the various treatment options available, including medical interventions, counseling, rehabilitation programs, and support groups. It's crucial to discuss the importance of a holistic approach to treatment, which addresses not just the physical aspect of addiction but also the psychological and social factors. This part of your essay should highlight the importance of compassion and support in addressing drug abuse, rather than solely punitive measures.

Concluding with a Call to Awareness and Action

Conclude your essay by summarizing the main points and emphasizing the importance of addressing drug abuse in society. Reflect on the need for increased awareness, better prevention strategies, and effective treatment programs. Encourage readers to consider the role they can play in combating drug abuse, whether through personal support, advocacy, or policy change. A strong conclusion will not only provide closure to your essay but also inspire a sense of responsibility and urgency in dealing with this critical issue.

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Argumentative Essay: Drug Abuse

I believe that recreational drugs are a bad thing for the fact that they limit human will and creativity. They cause a person to become being “okay” with being bored, and I think that is a bad thing.

Drugs have helped create a lot of good music

There are many songs that have been created because the creator was using drugs at the time. If it were not for those drugs then we would not have those songs.

There are better ways

The people who wrote those songs had the creative talent to write them. The songs were in their head. The song ideas or tunes were not put there by the drugs. These are creative people, and these songs were going to come out one way or the other.

Drugs let people have a good time

They put people in an altered state of mind that is impossible to achieve without drugs. It allows people to have fun and do something different.

Why not just do it once?

If you truly believed that taking drugs is fun because it allows you to do something different then why not only do it once? You may decide to climb Everest for fun, so does that mean you have to do it every weekend? Plus, there are literally billions of fun things to do on this planet, and we only get around 35 years of adult independence to do them. With so many billions of options, you should not be fighting for one that damages your health so severely.

Drugs are not harmful

Every report about drugs such as weed claims that the drug has no lasting effects on a person and that it is not addictive. Things such as that should be legal because they are not harmful.

For every report claiming it is harmless there are reports saying it is damaging

The empirical evidence alone is enough to prove it is harmful. Would you trust a long-term weed user to guard a maximum security prison, take your kids to a theme park or fly you home? Why wouldn’t you if you truly believed it has no effect? And, weed is addictive! Weed causes a pleasurable state, and anything that causes a pleasurable state may become addicted. There are people who spend a third of their annual income on weed, and they are doing it because they need to. They need to because they are addicted.

Make recreational drugs legal and there will be no more crime

Most of the people in prison are there for drug related offenses. Even the people who are convicted of assault and robbery are there because it somehow leads back to drugs. Make drugs legal and all of this crime goes away.

Fighting fire with fire won’t help

The logic of the legalization argument is terrible. If there are too many obese people then you cannot lower the amount by claiming obese people must now have 90% body fat rather than 20% body fat. Legalize drugs and the smuggling and selling crimes are replaced by people-under-the-influence crimes and the effect would bring any country to its knees.

Recreational drugs are fought for by a lot of people and yet they are so meaningless. Life is so short and yet people want to induce a state where they do not know they are alive. There are billions of things to do and experience in this life, so why spend your time out of life when you could be living it?

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140 Drug Abuse Essay Topics & Project Topics on Drug Abuse

Looking for an interesting essay title about drugs? You will find it here! This list contains a variety of drug topics to write about, including addiction among students and other issues. But that’s not all of it! In addition to drug abuse research topics, we’ve also included plenty of essay samples for you to check out.

🏆 Best Project Topics on Drug Abuse

✍️ drug abuse essay topics for college, 👍 good drug abuse research topics & essay examples, 🎓 most interesting drug abuse research titles, 💡 simple drug abuse essay ideas, ❓ research questions on drug abuse.

  • Drug Abuse among Teenagers Causes and Effects
  • Drug Abuse and Theories Explaining It
  • Alcohol and Drug Abuse in the Workplace
  • Drug Abuse Relation to the Violent Behavior
  • Victimless Crimes: Drug Abuse and Sex Work
  • Psychotherapy and Counseling for Drug Abuse Treatment
  • Drug Abuse and Its Effects on Families
  • Drug Abuse in Homeless Community The number of homeless people is continuously increasing, creating a severe threat to a country’s general well-being.
  • The Link Between Drug Abuse and Corruption This paper discusses that drug abuse and corruption deserve attention. It introduces causes and reasons for drug abuse and corruption.
  • Juvenile Drug Abuse Problems Analysis This essay describes the problem of juvenile drug use and applies the relevant delinquency theory. Additionally, the interventions or programs to fix the issue will be highlighted.
  • Social Factors of Substance Drug Abuse Substance abuse refers to the pattern of continued use, despite adverse consequences. Socio determinants of substance abuse imply social factors that affect the outcome of drugs.
  • Adolescent Drug Abuse, Their Awareness and Prevention This essay provides a critique of an article written by Chakravarthy, Shah, and Lotfipour about adolescent drug abuse prevention interventions.
  • Drug Abuse and Alcohol-Related Crimes in Adolescents The current paper focuses on the topic of drug abuse and alcohol-related crimes among teenagers, showing that substances remain the most notable factor in juvenile crime.
  • Drug Abuse in the United States’ Social Context Drug abuse is one of the problems affecting people in the United States. Society has contributed to the continued misuse of drugs today, through bad parenting or the environment.
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  • Leadership in Drug Abuse Program Development Within the context of a potential intervention for drug abuse, the roles and competencies of leaders are the primary emphasis of this paper.
  • The Drug Abuse Problem in Indiana Drug usage is one of Indiana’s most serious societal problems, affecting the state’s health, economy, behavioral, and criminal elements.
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  • Drug Abuse Demographics in Prisons Drug abuse, including alcohol, is a big problem for the people contained in prisons, both in the United States and worldwide.
  • Drug Abuse at the Workplace and a Policy to Address It In this proposal, a policy to address worker substance abuse and addiction, will be discussed, with both its major goals and potential benefits being outlines.
  • Prescription Drug Abuse Problem Providing access to prescription drugs is among the key tasks that the modern healthcare system should fulfill to increase recovery rates.
  • Accessory Plus Incorporated’s Drug Abuse Case In the case of Accessory Plus Incorporated, the issue of drug abuse has been suspected. However, there is no policy framework for the company to deal with the case.
  • Prescription Drug Abuse as a Community Health Issue Consumption of prescription drugs in a manner that has not been prescribed by the doctor is an outstanding community health issue. This can be more harmful than people understand.
  • Crime Trends: Drug Abuse in Adults and Juveniles One notes a mixed trend in the different crimes over the years. Drug abuse, for example, increased steadily from the 1970s in both the adult and juvenile populations.
  • Drug Abuse in Correction Facilities The purpose of this article is to consider the problem of drug abuse in correctional facilities, as well as to suggest possible solutions to this problem.
  • The Drug Courts: The Question of Drug Abuse Drug abuse is one of the most prevalent crimes in the world. It is a concern for both local governments and international organizations.
  • Community Health: Prescription Drug Abuse The rising access to frequently abused prescription drugs via the internet has created public anxieties within the healthcare system in the United States.
  • Health Issue Analysis: Prescription Drug Abuse Prescription drug abuse is a rapidly growing epidemic that spreads worldwide. Various national and international health organizations research this field.
  • The Drug Abuse in the U.S. Navy: The Problem Analysis The purpose of this report is to capture drug abuse in the U.S. Navy and to analyze some of the measures that the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) has put in place.
  • Drug Abuse Factors: Substance Use Disorder The various reasons for the abuse of opioids, alcohol, and nicotine account for the challenge in research and treatment.
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  • The Relations Between Drug Abuse and Criminal Justice The purpose of this article is to use conflict theory to analyze how race, class, and gender affect drug abuse and crime in the United States.
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  • The Issue of Drug Abuse in the Community of Kinsburg This paper aims to research the community of the city of Keansburg, located in the state of New Jersey and its issue of substance abuse.
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  • The Problem of Prescription Drug Abuse in the United States Prescription drug abuse is a serious health concern that causes an overdose crisis in the United States. There are determinants such as social, economic, and healthcare-related issues.
  • A Health Issue Analysis: Prescription Drug Abuse Prescription drug abuse is one of the acutest problems of healthcare systems in the USA. In the past decade, the rate of deaths due to prescription drug overdose grew by 142%.
  • Drug Abuse and Drug Addiction and Various Policies Related to Drugs The harm reduction policy is concerned with reducing or minimizing the risks that are accrued to drug abuse in various societies.
  • Drug Abuse and Crime Correlation The correlation between drug use and crimes go, most prisoners said they commit crimes for obtaining money for drugs, so drugs are the motivation.
  • Drug Abuse Among Teenagers Before analyzing the causes of addiction among teenagers, we have to look at this issue from sociological point of view.
  • Drug Abuse Treatment in Nursing Jenny G., a 48-year-old recovering IV drug abuser, presents with general malaise, anorexia, abdominal pain, and slight jaundice. She is currently staying in a women’s shelter and looking for a job.
  • Drug Abuse Among Homeless People in Miami This paper aims to better assess the disaster of drug abuse among homeless people in Miami, and develop ways to counter this issue.
  • Drug Abuse, HIV/AIDS, and Songs on Social Issues Drug abuse and HIV/AIDS are some of the major social issues affecting society today. Songs have been used in raising awareness about social issues that affect the world.
  • Minimizing Prescription Drug Abuse in Oklahoma Over the past few years, the rates of prescription drug abuse in Oklahoma have grown impressively. The issue must be addressed by raising awareness via modern media.
  • Drug Abuse Among Adolescents and Behavior Therapy
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  • Recognizing Drug Abuse and Addiction in Older Adults
  • American Drug Abuse McCuen and Winkler
  • Prescription Drugs and Drug Abuse in the United
  • Drug Abuse Has Become a Real Problem
  • Combating Combat Drug Abuse at Australian Music Festivals
  • Prevention of Drug Abuse and Mental Disorders
  • Alcohol and Drug Abuse Are The Most Common Issues of Today‘s
  • Drug Abuse and Adolescent Risky Behavior
  • Drug Abuse Hazards Across the Board in Fiji
  • Drug Abuse Sociological and Psychological Causative Factors
  • Drug Abuse and Mental Illness in Nursing
  • Drug Abuse and Smoking in Our Society
  • Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970
  • Drug Abuse and Addiction Among Teenagers
  • Neuroticism and Drug Abuse
  • Drug Abuse and Its Effects on the World
  • Drug Abuse and Its Effects on Other Members of Society
  • The Relationship Between the Type of Crime and Drugs
  • Drug Abuse Among American Teenagers
  • Adolescent Drug Abuse and Alcohol
  • Drug Abuse and Heroin Epidemic
  • Addiction and Opioid Use for Drug Abuse
  • Drug Abuse Within Teens in Hazleton
  • Past and Current Trends of Drug Abuse
  • Emergency Medical Services and Drug Abuse Among the Personnel
  • Impetus Toward Drug Abuse
  • Drug Abuse Among Professional Athletes
  • Drug Abuse and Treatment Centers in Afghanistan
  • Physiological and Behavior Effects on Drug Abuse
  • Psychological and Physical Aspects of Drug Abuse in Adolescent
  • Drug Abuse Among College Students
  • Alcoholism and Prescription Drug Abuse and the Elderly
  • Drug Abuse Within University Students in Ottawa
  • Drug Addiction and Drug Abuse in the United States
  • Capitalism, Drug Abuse, and the American Dream
  • Drug Abuse, Prison and Justice in Hungary
  • Drug Abuse and Associated Problems in Ireland
  • Role of the Limbic System in Drug Abuse
  • Alcohol and Drug Abuse Causes Domestic Violence
  • Drug Abuse and Its Effects on a Person’s Behavior
  • Drug Abuse During Central Ohio
  • Drug Abuse Among Health Care Professionals
  • Medication Addiction and Drug Abuse Problems
  • Drug Abuse Among Teenagers in Malaysia
  • Juvenile Delinquents and Drug Abuse
  • Factors That Are Associated With Women and Drug Abuse
  • Alcoholism and Drug Abuse: The Pressures and Temptations of a Teenager
  • Athletes’ Motivation for Performance-Enhancement Drug Abuse
  • Drug Abuse and the Drug Industry
  • Adolescent Drug Abuse and Its Effects
  • American Universities, Colleges, Drug Abuse and Effects
  • Alcohol and Drug Abuse During Pregnancy
  • Juveniles and Drug Abuse in America
  • The Link Between Schizophrenia and Drug Abuse
  • Drug Abuse and Its Effects on the Health and Choice of Lifestyle
  • Alcoholism and Drug Abuse: Roots, Effects, and Prevention
  • Drug Abuse and the Views of Saint Augustine, Aristotle, and Plato
  • Drug Abuse and Addiction Among America
  • How Does Drug Abuse Affect the Personal Development of Hong Kong Teenagers?
  • What Are Influences That Cause Drug Abuse on Youth?
  • How Does Prescription Drug Abuse Affect Teens?
  • What Are the Primary Causes and Effects of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Among Young People?
  • How Does Drug Abuse Ruin Families and Destroy Relationships?
  • What Causes Teenage Drug Abuse?
  • How Can We Prevent Prescription Drug Abuse?
  • Why Do Children Need to Be Educated About Drug Abuse?
  • Who Is Most Affected by Prescription Drug Abuse?
  • How Does Drug Abuse Affect a Person’s Social Life?
  • What Are the Side Effects of Drug Abuse?
  • Why Do We Need to Prevent Drug Abuse?
  • How Does Drug Abuse Affect Public Health?
  • What Are the Causes and Effects of Drug Abuse?
  • How Can the Government Reduce Drug Abuse?
  • What Are the Six Forms of Drug Abuse?
  • Can We Reduce Drug Abuse in the Community?
  • What Are the 4 Steps That Lead to Drug Abuse?
  • How to Educate Youth About Drug Abuse?
  • What Are the Effects of Drug Abuse on the School?
  • How Does Drug Abuse Affect the Brain?
  • What Profession Has the Highest Rate of Drug Abuse?
  • How Are Drug Abuse and Crime Related?
  • Why Is It Important to Learn About the Risk Factors of Drug Use and Abuse?
  • What Is the Role of the Youth in Preventing Drug Abuse?
  • Are There Social Factors That Contribute to Drug Abuse?
  • What Is the Impact of Drug Abuse on Society?
  • Is There a Connection Between Drug Abuse and Crime?
  • What Can Be Done to Overcome the Problem of Drug Abuse?
  • How Can Drug Abuse Cause Violence?

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StudyCorgi. (2022, March 1). 140 Drug Abuse Essay Topics & Project Topics on Drug Abuse. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/drug-abuse-essay-topics/

"140 Drug Abuse Essay Topics & Project Topics on Drug Abuse." StudyCorgi , 1 Mar. 2022, studycorgi.com/ideas/drug-abuse-essay-topics/.

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StudyCorgi . "140 Drug Abuse Essay Topics & Project Topics on Drug Abuse." March 1, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/drug-abuse-essay-topics/.

StudyCorgi . 2022. "140 Drug Abuse Essay Topics & Project Topics on Drug Abuse." March 1, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/drug-abuse-essay-topics/.

These essay examples and topics on Drug Abuse were carefully selected by the StudyCorgi editorial team. They meet our highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, and fact accuracy. Please ensure you properly reference the materials if you’re using them to write your assignment.

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Drug Trafficking and Drug Abuse Argumentative Essay

Introduction, economic impacts of illicit drug trafficking, social impacts of drug trafficking and abuse, reference list.

Illicit drug use is a major social problem with significant impacts on both the social and economic aspects of any country. The dramatic improvements in communication and technology coupled with global economic liberalization have contributed to growth of international trade.

At the same time, the social and political environment has led to improved trade environment attracting substantial investments in many nations. The recent liberalization of trade means that goods, human labor, and capital can freely move across national borders with minimal restrictions.

This has resulted to a good macroeconomic environment for growth of legitimate international trade (Reuter, & Kleiman, 1986, p.19). However, the liberalization of trade has also provided an opportunity for organized gangs to engage in drug trafficking on a global scale.

Cartels, consisting of drug producers and traffickers, produce illicit drugs, usually in developing countries, and distribute them into different countries gaining huge profits. The proceeds from drug trafficking are then invested in strategic financial centers as legitimate investments giving good investment returns to the drug traffickers.

This has only contributed to widening the economic inequality gap affecting the economic growth of a country. Trade in illicit drugs affects the global economy as well as the socio-political aspects of citizens.

Drug trafficking is a major global concern due to the substantial impacts it has on the economies of many countries. While drug trafficking may have immense “benefits” to drug traffickers and cartels, it however, causes considerable consequences on the health and financial systems of a country (Saffer, & Chaloupka, 1995, p.12). In particular, countries that have less stringent anti-trafficking laws tend to experience substantial social and political consequences.

This arises because much of the profits obtained from drug trafficking is invested in industrialized nations with the developing countries, which are often the source of these drugs, experiencing less investments (Reuter, & Kleiman,1986, p.21). As a result, a number of producer developing countries are experiencing stagnated economic growth.

Drug trafficking contributes to drug abuse in the society. Countries allocate substantial resources to fight illicit drug trafficking through various law enforcement agencies. In addition, resources are allocated to healthcare to fight drug-related illnesses (Hanson, Venturelli, & Fleckenstein, 2009, p.51). A country’s economy suffers as labor productivity declines because of illnesses and drug-related deaths. Drug trafficking also contributes to increased drug-related crime affecting security and regional stability.

Drug abuse is rampant particularly among youths in the age group of 18-35 who constitute the majority of the working population. Drug abuse among youthful population reduces their chances of finding gainful employment. It also affects their work performance, if employed, which results to dismissals.

According to Lawrence and Vinod, unemployment in both developed and developing countries is partly attributed to substance abuse (1993, p.117). In addition, the prices of illicit drugs are not regulated dependent only on the associated risks during production and trafficking; this means that the illicit drug industry generates substantial income that affects the economy of countries.

The drug income obtained by traffickers in producer countries is often used to import illegal luxury goods from other countries, which affects the price levels of local products. In producer countries, people neglect the production of essential commodities as they embark on illicit drug production. This also affects prices of essential commodities. Drug trafficking also increases income inequality as only few people in drug cartels get the drug profits as the drug farmers get comparatively less profits.

While the family and community play a significant role in reducing substance abuse among the youth, parental drug abuse strains most family relationships. Peer influence especially among the youth also contributes to drug abuse. Family factors including parental absence and parental use of illicit drugs also lead to drug abuse.

In addition, drug abuse produces many negative impacts on the health of individuals affecting their productivity (Hanson et al., 2009, p.53). Addiction to drugs such as heroin and cocaine affect the general health of the users with diseases such as HIV/AIDS being prevalent in drug injectors. This in turn affects the productivity of the general population, which adversely affects the economy of a country.

Environmental damage is increased by drug trafficking particularly in producer countries as forests are cleared for drug farming. Processing of the illicit drugs also releases dangerous chemicals into the environment (Hanson et al., 2009, p.57). Improper disposal of wastes resulting from processing of cocaine and heroin affects the environment. Drug trafficking also contributes to increased criminal activities that affect the security of citizens.

Drug addiction contributes to increased robbery and prostitution as the addicts seek for money to finance their drug use. Consequently, many resources are allocated to law enforcement officers to fight these drug-related vices at the expense of the other sectors of the economy.

Drug trafficking is major concern because of its socio-economic and political implications. Illicit drug money, once it enters an economy, it affects the political systems, the civil society, and the productivity of a country contributing to social disintegration and collapse of democratic governance. In addition, drug abuse affects the health and the productivity of human resource of a country, which in turn affects its economic growth and development.

Hanson, G., Venturelli, P., & Fleckenstein, A. (2009). Drugs and Society. London: Johns and Bardon Publishers.

Lawrence, S., & Vinod, T. (1993). Recent lessons of development. Research Observer, 2(1), 117.

Reuter, P., & Kleiman, M. (1986). Risk and prices: an economic analysis of drug Enforcement. Crime and Justice: An Annual Review of Research , 7(3), 19-21.

Saffer, H., & Chaloupka, F. (1995). The Demand for Illicit Drugs. National Bureau of Economic Research , 6, 9-14.

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Home / Essay Samples / Health / Drug Abuse / Understanding Why Drugs Are Bad

Understanding Why Drugs Are Bad

  • Category: Health
  • Topic: Drug Abuse , Drugs

Pages: 2 (826 words)

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Physical Health Risks

  • Addiction: Many drugs have the potential for addiction, leading to a compulsive need to seek and use the substance, even in the face of adverse consequences.
  • Overdose: Taking a large or toxic dose of a drug can lead to overdose, which can be fatal. Overdoses are a significant concern, particularly with opioids and stimulants.
  • Organ Damage: Some drugs, such as alcohol and cocaine, can damage vital organs, including the liver, heart, and lungs, leading to long-term health problems.
  • Infectious Diseases: Injecting drugs with shared needles can increase the risk of contracting infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS and hepatitis.
  • Respiratory Issues: Smoking drugs like tobacco and marijuana can harm the respiratory system, increasing the risk of lung cancer, chronic bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions.

Mental Health Implications

  • Depression: Many individuals who misuse drugs experience symptoms of depression, which can lead to a cycle of drug use as a form of self-medication.
  • Anxiety: Drug misuse can trigger or exacerbate anxiety disorders, making it challenging to manage stress and maintain mental well-being.
  • Psychosis: Some drugs, particularly hallucinogens and stimulants, can induce psychosis, characterized by hallucinations, delusions, and impaired thinking.
  • Cognitive Impairment: Long-term drug misuse can lead to cognitive impairments, affecting memory, attention, and decision-making abilities.
  • Co-occurring Disorders: Substance use disorders often co-occur with other mental health disorders, complicating treatment and recovery.

Social and Economic Consequences

  • Familial Disruption: Drug misuse can tear apart families, leading to strained relationships, neglect of responsibilities, and loss of custody of children.
  • Crime and Legal Issues: Individuals under the influence of drugs may engage in criminal activities to support their habit, leading to arrests and incarceration.
  • Loss of Employment: Maintaining steady employment can be challenging for individuals struggling with drug misuse, resulting in financial instability.
  • Community Impact: Drug abuse contributes to community issues such as drug-related violence, property crime, and increased healthcare costs.
  • Economic Burden: The economic burden of drug abuse includes healthcare expenses, lost productivity, and the costs associated with law enforcement and rehabilitation programs.

Gateway to Risky Behaviors

  • Unprotected Sex: Substance use can impair judgment and lead to risky sexual behaviors, contributing to the spread of sexually transmitted infections.
  • Reckless Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs is dangerous and can result in accidents, injuries, or fatalities.
  • Polydrug Use: Some individuals progress from one drug to another, compounding the risks associated with substance misuse.
  • Engagement in Criminal Activities: Drug misuse can lead individuals to commit crimes to support their habit or due to impaired decision-making.

The Societal Stigma of Addiction

Prevention and treatment.

  • Education: Implementing educational programs that inform individuals, especially young people, about the risks of drug misuse and the benefits of making healthy choices.
  • Access to Mental Health Services: Ensuring that mental health services are readily available and destigmatized, as individuals struggling with mental health issues are more vulnerable to substance misuse.
  • Community Support: Developing supportive communities that provide resources and social connections to individuals at risk of drug misuse.
  • Policy Measures: Enacting policies that regulate drug access, restrict advertising, and implement harm reduction strategies.

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