drug addiction and abuse essay

Drug and Substance Abuse Essay

Introduction, physiology and psychology of addiction, prescription drug abuse, depressants, hallucinogens.

Drug and substance abuse is an issue that affects entirely all societies in the world. It has both social and economic consequences, which affect directly and indirectly our everyday live. Drug addiction is “a complex disorder characterized by compulsive drug use” (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2010).

It sets in as one form a habit of taking a certain drug. Full-blown drug abuse comes with social problems such as violence, child abuse, homelessness and destruction of families (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2010). To understand to the impact of drug abuse, one needs to explore the reasons why many get addicted and seem unable pull themselves out of this nightmare.

Many experts consider addiction as a disease as it affects a specific part of the brain; the limbic system commonly referred to as the pleasure center. This area, which experts argue to be primitive, is affected by various drug substances, which it gives a higher priority to other things. Peele (1998) argues that alcoholism is a disease that can only be cured from such a perspective (p. 60). Genetics are also seen as a factor in drug addiction even though it has never been exclusively proven.

Other experts view addiction as a state of mind rather than a physiological problem. The environment plays a major role in early stages of addiction. It introduces the agent, in this case the drug, to the abuser who knowingly or otherwise develops dependence to the substance. Environmental factors range from violence, stress to peer pressure.

Moreover, as an individual becomes completely dependent on a substance, any slight withdrawal is bound to be accompanied by symptoms such as pain, which is purely psychological. This is because the victim is under self-deception that survival without the substance in question is almost if not impossible. From his psychological vantage point, Isralowitz (2004) argues that freedom from addiction is achievable provided there is the “right type of guidance and counseling” (p.22).

A doctor as regulated by law usually administers prescription drugs. It may not be certain why many people abuse prescription drugs but the trend is ever increasing. Many people use prescription drugs as directed by a physician but others use purely for leisure. This kind of abuse eventually leads to addiction.

This problem is compounded by the ease of which one can access the drugs from pharmacies and even online. Many people with conditions requiring painkillers, especially the elderly, have a higher risk of getting addicted as their bodies become tolerant to the drugs. Adolescents usually use some prescription drugs and especially painkillers since they induce anxiety among other feelings as will be discussed below.

Stimulants are generally psychoactive drugs used medically to improve alertness, increase physical activity, and elevate blood pressure among other functions. This class of drugs acts by temporarily increasing mental activity resulting to increased awareness, changes in mood and apparently cause the user to have a relaxed feeling. Although their use is closely monitored, they still find their way on the streets and are usually abused.

Getting deeper into the biochemistry of different stimulants, each has a different metabolism in the body affecting different body organs in a specific way. One common thing about stimulants is that they affect the central nervous system in their mechanism. Examples of commonly used stimulants include; cocaine, caffeine, nicotine, amphetamines and cannabis. Cocaine, which has a tremendously high addictive potential, was in the past used as anesthetic and in treatment of depression before its profound effects were later discovered.

On the streets, cocaine is either injected intravenously or smoked. Within a few minutes of use, it stimulates the brain making the user feel euphoric, energetic and increases alertness. It has long-term effects such as seizures, heart attacks and stroke. Cocaine’s withdrawal symptoms range from anxiety, irritability to a strong craving for more cocaine.

Cannabis, also known as marijuana , is the most often abused drug familiar in almost every corner of the world, from the streets of New York to the most remote village in Africa. Although its addiction potential is lower as compared to that of cocaine, prolonged use of cannabis results to an immense craving for more.

It produces hallucinogenic effects, lack of body coordination, and causes a feeling of ecstasy. Long-term use is closely associated with schizophrenia, and other psychological conditions. From a medical perspective, cannabis is used as an analgesic, to stimulate hunger in patients, nausea ameliorator, and intraocular eye pressure reducer. Insomnia, lack of appetite, migraines, restlessness and irritability characterize withdrawal symptoms of cannabis.

Unlike stimulants, depressants reduce anxiety and the central nervous system activity. The most common depressants include barbiturates, benzodiazepines and ethyl alcohol. They are of great therapeutically value especially as tranquilizers or sedatives in reducing anxiety.

Depressants can be highly addictive since they seem to ease tension and bring relaxation. After using depressants for a long time, the body develops tolerance to the drugs. Moreover, body tolerance after continual use requires one use a higher dose to get the same effect. Clumsiness, confusion and a strong craving for the drug accompany gradual withdrawal. Sudden withdrawal causes respiratory complications and can even be fatal.

Narcotics have been used for ages for various ailments and as a pain reliever pain. They are also characterized by their ability to induce sleep and euphoria. Opium, for instance was used in ancient China as a pain reliever and treatment of dysentery and insomnia. Some narcotics such as morphine and codeine are derived from natural sources.

Others are structural analogs to morphine and these include heroin, oxymorphone among others. Narcotics are highly addictive resulting to their strict regulation by a majority of governments. Narcotics act as painkillers once they enter the body.

They are used legally in combination with other drugs as analgesics and antitussives but are abused due to their ability to induce a feeling of well being. Their addiction potential is exceptionally high due to the body’s tolerance after consistent use, forcing the user to use and crave for more to get satisfaction. Increase in respiration rate, diarrhea, anxiety, nausea and lack of appetite are symptoms common to narcotic withdrawal. Others include; running nose, stomach cramps, muscle pains and a strong craving for the drugs.

Hallucinogens affect a person’s thinking capacity causing illusions and behavioral changes especially in moods. They apparently cause someone to hear sounds and see images that do not exist. Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), which commonly abused hallucinogen, has a low addiction potential because it does not have withdrawal effects. They also affect a person’s sexual behavior and other body functions such as body temperature. There are no outright withdrawal symptoms for hallucinogens.

Isralowitz, R. (2004). Drug use: a reference handbook . Santa Barbara, Clif.: ABC-CLIO. Print.

National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2010). NIDA INfoFacts: Understanding Drug Abuse and Addiction . Web.

Peele, S. (1998). The meaning of Addiction : Compulsive Experience and its Interpretation . San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2023, December 18). Drug and Substance Abuse. https://ivypanda.com/essays/drug-and-substance-abuse/

"Drug and Substance Abuse." IvyPanda , 18 Dec. 2023, ivypanda.com/essays/drug-and-substance-abuse/.

IvyPanda . (2023) 'Drug and Substance Abuse'. 18 December.

IvyPanda . 2023. "Drug and Substance Abuse." December 18, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/drug-and-substance-abuse/.

1. IvyPanda . "Drug and Substance Abuse." December 18, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/drug-and-substance-abuse/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Drug and Substance Abuse." December 18, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/drug-and-substance-abuse/.

• Hallucinogens: Addiction and Treatment
• Common Hallucinogens and Dissociative Drugs
• Main Categories of Drugs and Its Mechanism of Action
• Hallucinogens, Inhalants and Prescription Drugs Effects
• The Psychology of Addiction and Addictive Behaviors
• Alcohol as the Most Common Depressant on Earth
• Prescription Painkillers, the New Drug Abuse of Choice
• Sedatives or Depressants in Individuals With a Mental Health Problem
• Using Depressants During Sleep Time
• The Role of CBT in Managing Severe Depressant Patients
• Post Incarceration Syndrome
• Psychoactive Drugs
• Adolescent’s Drug Abuse and Therapy Success
• Analysis of the Video “Effects of Alcoholism on Children: An Oral History Video”
• Child Sexual Abuse: Impact and Consequences

• Type 2 Diabetes
• Heart Disease
• Digestive Health
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Diet & Nutrition
• Supplements
• Health Insurance
• Public Health
• Patient Rights
• Caregivers & Loved Ones
• End of Life Concerns
• Health News
• Thyroid Test Analyzer
• Doctor Discussion Guides
• Hemoglobin A1c Test Analyzer
• Lipid Test Analyzer
• Complete Blood Count (CBC) Analyzer
• What to Buy
• Editorial Process
• Meet Our Medical Expert Board

The Effects of Drug Addiction on the Brain and Body

Signs of drug addiction, effects of drug addiction.

Drug addiction is a treatable, chronic medical disease that involves complex interactions between a person’s environment, brain circuits, genetics, and life experiences.

People with drug addictions continue to use drugs compulsively, despite the negative effects.

Substance abuse has many potential consequences, including overdose and death. Learn about the effects of drug addiction on the mind and body and treatment options that can help.

Verywell / Theresa Chiechi

Drug Abuse vs. Drug Addiction

While the terms “drug abuse” and “drug addiction” are often used interchangeably, they're different. Someone who abuses drugs uses a substance too much, too frequently, or in otherwise unhealthy ways. However, they ultimately have control over their substance use.

Someone with a drug addiction uses drugs in a way that affects many parts of their life and causes major disruptions. They can't stop using drugs, even if they want to.

The signs of drug abuse and addiction include changes in behavior, personality, and physical appearance. If you’re concerned about a loved one’s substance use, here are some of the red flags to watch out for:

• Changes in school or work performance
• Secretiveness 
• Relationship problems
• Risk-taking behavior
• Legal problems
• Aggression 
• Mood swings
• Changes in hobbies or friends
• Sudden weight loss or gain
• Unexplained odors on the body or clothing

Drug Addiction in Men and Women

Men and women are equally likely to develop drug addictions. However, men are more likely than women to use illicit drugs, die from a drug overdose, and visit an emergency room for addiction-related health reasons. Women are more susceptible to intense cravings and repeated relapses.

People can become addicted to any psychoactive ("mind-altering") substance. Common addictive substances include alcohol , tobacco ( nicotine ), stimulants, hallucinogens, and opioids .

Many of the effects of drug addiction are similar, no matter what substance someone uses. The following are some of the most common effects of drug addiction.

Effects of Drug Addiction on the Body

Drug addiction can lead to a variety of physical consequences ranging in seriousness from drowsiness to organ damage and death:

• Shallow breathing
• Elevated body temperature
• Rapid heart rate
• Increased blood pressure
• Impaired coordination and slurred speech
• Decreased or increased appetite
• Tooth decay
• Skin damage
• Sexual dysfunction
• Infertility
• Kidney damage
• Liver damage and cirrhosis
• Various forms of cancer
• Cardiovascular problems
• Lung problems
• Overdose and death

If left untreated drug addiction can lead to serious, life-altering effects on the body.

Dependence and withdrawal also affect the body:

• Physical dependence : Refers to the reliance on a substance to function day to day. People can become physically dependent on a substance fairly quickly. Dependence does not always mean someone is addicted, but the longer someone uses drugs, the more likely their dependency is to become an addiction.
• Withdrawal : When someone with a dependence stops using a drug, they can experience withdrawal symptoms like excessive sweating, tremors, panic, difficulty breathing, fatigue , irritability, and flu-like symptoms.

Overdose Deaths in the United States

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 100,000 people in the U.S. died from a drug overdose in 2021.

Effects of Drug Addiction on the Brain

All basic functions in the body are regulated by the brain. But, more than that, your brain is who you are. It controls how you interpret and respond to life experiences and the ways you behave as a result of undergoing those experiences.

Drugs alter important areas of the brain. When someone continues to use drugs, their health can deteriorate both psychologically and neurologically.

Some of the most common mental effects of drug addiction are:

• Cognitive decline
• Memory loss
• Mood changes and paranoia
• Poor self/impulse control
• Disruption to areas of the brain controlling basic functions (heart rate, breathing, sleep, etc.)

Effects of Drug Addiction on Behavior

Psychoactive substances affect the parts of the brain that involve reward, pleasure, and risk. They produce a sense of euphoria and well-being by flooding the brain with dopamine .

This leads people to compulsively use drugs in search of another euphoric “high.” The consequences of these neurological changes can be either temporary or permanent. 

• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability 
• Angry outbursts
• Lack of inhibition 
• Decreased pleasure/enjoyment in daily life (e.g., eating, socializing, and sex)
• Hallucinations

Help Someone With Drug Addiction

If you suspect that a loved one is experiencing drug addiction, address your concerns honestly, non-confrontationally, and without judgment. Focus on building trust and maintaining an open line of communication while setting healthy boundaries to keep yourself and others safe. If you need help, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.

Effects of Drug Addiction on an Unborn Child

Drug addiction during pregnancy can cause serious negative outcomes for both mother and child, including:

• Preterm birth
• Maternal mortality

Drug addiction during pregnancy can lead to neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) . Essentially, the baby goes into withdrawal after birth. Symptoms of NAS differ depending on which drug has been used but can include:

• Excessive crying
• Sleeping and feeding issues

Children exposed to drugs before birth may go on to develop issues with behavior, attention, and thinking. It's unclear whether prenatal drug exposure continues to affect behavior and the brain beyond adolescence.  

While there is no single “cure” for drug addiction, there are ways to treat it. Treatment can help you control your addiction and stay drug-free. The primary methods of treating drug addiction include:

• Psychotherapy : Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or family therapy , can help someone with a drug addiction develop healthier ways of thinking and behaving.
• Behavioral therapy : Common behavioral therapies for drug addiction include motivational enhancement therapy (MET) and contingency management (CM). These therapy approaches build coping skills and provide positive reinforcement.
• Medication : Certain prescribed medications help to ease withdrawal symptoms. Some examples are naltrexone (for alcohol), bupropion (for nicotine), and methadone (for opioids).
• Hospitalization : Some people with drug addiction might need to be hospitalized to detox from a substance before beginning long-term treatment.
• Support groups : Peer support and self-help groups, such as 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous, can help people with drug addictions find support, resources, and accountability.

A combination of medication and behavioral therapy has been found to have the highest success rates in preventing relapse and promoting recovery. Forming an individualized treatment plan with your healthcare provider's help is likely to be the most effective approach.

Drug addiction is a complex, chronic medical disease that causes someone to compulsively use psychoactive substances despite the negative consequences.

Some effects of drug abuse and addiction include changes in appetite, mood, and sleep patterns. More serious health issues such as cognitive decline, major organ damage, overdose, and death are also risks. Addiction to drugs while pregnant can lead to serious outcomes for both mother and child.

Treatment for drug addiction may involve psychotherapy , medication, hospitalization, support groups, or a combination.

If you or someone you know is experiencing substance abuse or addiction, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.

American Society of Addiction Medicine. Definition of addiction .

HelpGuide.org. Drug Abuse and Addiction .

Tennessee Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services. Warning signs of drug abuse .

National Institute on Drug Abuse. Sex and gender differences in substance use .

Cleveland Clinic. Drug addiction .

National Institute on Drug Abuse. Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction Drugs and the Brain .

American Heart Association. Illegal Drugs and Heart Disease .

American Addiction Centers. Get the facts on substance abuse .

Szalavitz M, Rigg KK, Wakeman SE. Drug dependence is not addiction-and it matters . Ann Med . 2021;53(1):1989-1992. doi:10.1080/07853890.2021.1995623

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Drug overdose deaths in the U.S. top 100,000 annually .

American Psychological Association. Cognition is central to drug addiction .

National Institute on Drug Abuse. Understanding Drug Use and Addiction DrugFacts .

MedlinePlus. Neonatal abstinence syndrome .

National Institute on Drug Abuse. Treatment and recovery .

Grella CE, Stein JA.  Remission from substance dependence: differences between individuals in a general population longitudinal survey who do and do not seek help . Drug and Alcohol Dependence.  2013;133(1):146-153. doi:10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2013.05.019

By Laura Dorwart Dr. Dorwart has a Ph.D. from UC San Diego and is a health journalist interested in mental health, pregnancy, and disability rights.

25,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today

Meet top uk universities from the comfort of your home, here’s your new year gift, one app for all your, study abroad needs, start your journey, track your progress, grow with the community and so much more.

Verification Code

An OTP has been sent to your registered mobile no. Please verify

Thanks for your comment !

Our team will review it before it's shown to our readers.

• School Education /

Essay on Drug Abuse in 250 and 500 Words in English for Students

• Updated on  
• Apr 2, 2024

Drug abuse refers to the excessive and frequent consumption of drugs. Drug abuse can have several harmful effects on our mental and physical health. Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the USA, passed the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986 and initiated the War on Drugs . He said, ‘Let us not forget who we are. Drug abuse is a repudiation of everything America is.’

Consuming drugs not only harms the individual himself but also affects society as a whole. Studies have shown that people who consume drugs become addicted to it. This addiction turns into substance abuse, resulting in self-damage, behaviour changes, mood swings, unnecessary weight loss, and several other health problems. Let’s understand what drug abuse is and how to fight it.

Table of Contents

• 1 Essay on Drug Abuse in 250 Words
• 2.1 Why Do People Consume Drugs?
• 2.2 Why Is Drug Abuse Bad?
• 2.3 Laws in India Against Drug Consumption
• 2.4 Steps to Prevent Drug Addiction
• 2.5 Conclusion
• 3 10 Lines Essay on Drug Abuse

Quick Read: Essay on CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act)

Essay on Drug Abuse in 250 Words

‘When people consume drugs regularly and become addicted to it, it is known as drug abuse. In medical terminology, drugs means medicines. However, the consumption of drugs is for non-medical purposes. It involves the consumption of substances in illegal and harmful ways, such as swallowing, inhaling, or injecting. When drugs are consumed, they are mixed into our bloodstream, affecting our neural system and brain functioning.

The Indian government has taken significant steps to help reduce the consumption of drugs. In 1985, the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act came into force. This act replaced the Opium Act of 1857, the Opium Act of 1878, and the Dangerous Drugs Act of 1930. 

Drug abuse can lead to addiction, where a person becomes physically or psychologically dependent on the substance and experiences withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop using it. 

Drug abuse can have serious consequences for the individual and society as a whole. On an individual level, drugs can damage physical health, including organ damage, infectious diseases, and overdose fatalities. Not only this, a person already suffering from mental health disorders will face more harmful aftereffects. Addiction disrupts our cognitive functioning and impairs our decision-making abilities.

To fight drug abuse, we need collective action from all sections of society. Medical professionals say that early intervention and screening programmes can identify individuals at risk of substance misuse and provide them with the necessary support services. Educating people, especially those who are at-risk, about drug abuse and its harmful effects can significantly help reduce their consumption.

Drug abuse is serious and it must be addressed. Drug abuse is killing youth and society. Therefore, it is an urgent topic to address, and only through sustainable and collective efforts can we address this problem.

Quick Read: Success in Life Speech

Essay on Drug Abuse in 500 Words

Drug abuse is known as frequent consumption. In time, these people become dependent on drugs for several reasons. Curiosity drives adolescents and teenagers, who are among the most susceptible groups in our society. Cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, heroin, etc. are some of the popular drugs consumed. 

Why Do People Consume Drugs?

The very first question about drugs is: why do people consume drugs? Studies have shown that more than 50% of drug addicts consider drugs as a coping mechanism to alleviate emotional or psychological distress. In the beginning, drugs temporarily relieve feelings of anxiety, depression, or trauma, providing a temporary escape from difficult emotions or life circumstances. 

Some consume drugs out of curiosity, some under peer pressure, and some want to escape the painful experiences. Some people enjoy the effects drugs produce, such as euphoria, relaxation, and altered perceptions. Recreational drug use may occur in social settings or as a form of self-medication for stress relief or relaxation.

Why Is Drug Abuse Bad?

The National Institute on Drug Abuse states that drugs can worsen our eyesight and body movement, our physical growth, etc. Marijuana, one of the most popular drugs, can slow down our reaction time, affecting our time and distance judgement and decreasing coordination. Cocaine and Methamphetamine can make the consumer aggressive and careless.

Our brain is the first victim of drugs. Drugs can disorder our body in several ways, from damaging organs to messing with our brains. Drugs easily get mixed into our bloodstream, and affect our neural system. Prolonged and excessive consumption of drugs significantly harms our brain functioning.

The next target of drug abuse is our physical health and relationships. Drugs can damage our vital organs, such as the liver, heart, lungs, and brain. For example, heavy alcohol use can lead to cirrhosis of the liver, while cocaine use can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Laws in India Against Drug Consumption

Here is an interesting thing; the USA has the highest number of drug addicts and also has strict laws against drug consumption. According to a report by the Narcotics Control Bureau, around 9 million people in India consume different types of drugs. The Indian government has implemented certain laws against drug consumption and production.

The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS), prohibits the production, sale, purchase, and consumption of narcotics and other illegal substances, except for scientific and medical purposes.

Also, Article 47 of the Indian Constitution states that ‘ The State shall endeavour to bring about prohibition of the consumption, except for medicinal purposes, of intoxicating drinks and drugs which are injurious to health.’

Quick Read: Essay on Indian Festivals in 500 Words

Steps to Prevent Drug Addiction

Several steps can be taken to prevent drug addiction. But before we start our ‘War on Drugs’ , it is crucial to understand the trigger point. Our social environment, mental health issues and sometimes genetic factors can play a role in drug abuse.

• Education and awareness are the primary weapons in the fight against drugs. 
• Keeping distance from people and places addicted to drugs.
• Encourage a healthy and active lifestyle and indulge in physical workouts.
• Watch motivating videos and listen to sound music.
• Self-motivate yourself to stop consuming drugs.
• Talk to a medical professional or a psychiatrist, who will guide you to the right path.

Drug abuse is a serious problem. The excessive and frequent consumption of drugs not only harms the individual but also affects society as a whole. Only a collective approach from lawmakers, healthcare professionals, educators, community leaders, and individuals themselves can combat drug abuse effectively. 

Quick Read: Speech About Life

10 Lines Essay on Drug Abuse

Here is a 10-line essay on drug abuse.

• Drug abuse can significantly affect our physical growth
• Drug abuse can affect our mental functioning.
• Drug abuse may provide instant pleasure, but inside, it weakens our willpower and physical strength.
• Educating people, especially those who are at-risk, about drug abuse and its harmful effects can significantly help reduce their consumption.
•  Drugs easily get mixed into our bloodstream, and affect our neural system. 
• Prolonged and excessive consumption of drugs significantly harms our brain functioning.
• In 1985, the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act came into force.
• The USA has the highest number of drug addicts and also has strict laws against drug consumption.
• Drug addicts consider drugs as a coping mechanism to alleviate emotional or psychological distress.
•  Adolescents and teenagers are the most vulnerable section of our society and are driven by curiosity.

Ans: Drug abuse refers to the excessive and frequent consumption of drugs. Drug abuse can have several harmful effects on our mental and physical health.

Ans: ‘When people consume drugs regularly and become addicted to it, it is known as drug abuse. In medical terminology, drugs means medicines. However, the consumption of drugs is for non-medical purposes. It involves the consumption of substances in illegal and harmful ways, such as swallowing, inhaling, or injecting. When drugs are consumed, they are mixed into our bloodstream, affecting our neural system and brain functioning.

Ans: Drug abuse is known as frequent consumption. In time, these people become dependent on drugs for several reasons. Adolescents and teenagers are the most vulnerable section of our society who are driven by curiosity. Cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, heroin, etc. are some of the popular drugs consumed.  The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS), prohibits the production, sale, purchase, and consumption of narcotics and other illegal substances, except for scientific and medical purposes.

Popular Essay Topics for Students

For more information on such interesting topics, visit our essay writing page and follow Leverage Edu.

Shiva Tyagi

With an experience of over a year, I've developed a passion for writing blogs on wide range of topics. I am mostly inspired from topics related to social and environmental fields, where you come up with a positive outcome.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Contact no. *

Connect With Us

25,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today.

Resend OTP in

Need help with?

Study abroad.

UK, Canada, US & More

IELTS, GRE, GMAT & More

Scholarship, Loans & Forex

Country Preference

New Zealand

Which English test are you planning to take?

Which academic test are you planning to take.

Not Sure yet

When are you planning to take the exam?

Already booked my exam slot

Within 2 Months

Want to learn about the test

Which Degree do you wish to pursue?

When do you want to start studying abroad.

January 2024

September 2024

What is your budget to study abroad?

How would you describe this article ?

Please rate this article

We would like to hear more.

Have something on your mind?

Make your study abroad dream a reality in January 2022 with

India's Biggest Virtual University Fair

Essex Direct Admission Day

Why attend .

Don't Miss Out

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.

Related Posts

Essential Elements of Valid Contract (Explained With Examples)

What is World Population? Main Causes, Effects, Top 20 Countries

Column: Stories, and the faces behind them,…

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on X (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Entertainment
• Immigration
• Sports Betting

Aurora Beacon-News Aurora Beacon-News Opinion

Column: stories, and the faces behind them, matter in battle against opioid abuse.

As a journalist who’s covered this issue locally for over a dozen years, I have spoken to countless victims, including those who were abusing drugs, their loved ones and the professionals in the trenches determined to make a difference. Yet the number of overdoses, including fatalities, continues to rise at an alarming rate. As of 2022, an estimated 14.5 opioid-related deaths occurred for every 100,000 residents of Kane County.

Which is why we should enthusiastically applaud the Kane County Health Department’s newly-launched “Your Story Matters” campaign that encourages people impacted by opioids to share their experiences as a way of providing education and resources but also to help destigmatize drug abuse.

And that’s critical, says Dr. Stephen Holtsford, a former ER doctor who switched his specialty to addiction medicine in 2017 after seeing the same people come through his doors “again and again” with too little hope and far too much shame.

Plus, he added, “we were poorly equipped to take care of them.”

What Holtsford quickly discovered is “if you treat them as people with an illness, they will get better.” Unfortunately, he added, ”we just did not have the bandwidth to treat them all because there is so much stigma around” opioid abuse.

“On a scale of one to 10, we are about halfway there,” he replied when asked how far we’ve come in comparing drug addiction to other serious medical conditions such as cancer or diabetes. Unfortunately, too many in the community still criticize “harm reduction” programs that distribute the life-saving nasal spray naloxone or fund needle exchange programs because they believe the addicts are “doing it to themselves.”

Try telling that to Lyndsay Hartman who, as street outreach case manager for Association for Individual Development, knows how often “users become the first responders” because they have naloxone on them “and can save each other.”

“I hear it from people all the time … they deserve to die,” she said, then quickly points to the bad choices we all make, such as eating too much fast food, drinking to excess or smoking cigarettes. Yet we don’t “dehumanize people” for doing these “socially acceptable things” as we do drug abusers.

Overdose deaths “are soaring, so obviously we are not doing enough,” Hartman insisted. “The (drug) supply is so contaminated, so unregulated. We need to get more radical if we want to save lives.”

The good news is that, although addiction is a complicated condition, it is “readily treatable,” especially in Kane County, which has a stronger support system in place than most areas, insisted Holtsford, who is medical director of two St. Charles treatment centers, sits on the Kane County Opioid Task Force and continues to “work with ERs to improve the care of patients with opioid abuse disorder.”

While the “treatment landscape is getting better … it still needs so much work,” he added. Even in a county that has plenty “to be proud of … building infrastructures and changing attitudes takes a long time.”

No one knows that more than those who have lost loved ones, including Don Kalish, retired vice president of finance for Rush Copley Medical Center in Aurora, whose 29-year-old son Randy died of a fentanyl overdose in 2016.

That phone call shook him and wife Roberta to the core because they had no idea how serious his problem was, he told me. In fact, a week before their son died, the couple, who were paying $200 an hour for private counseling for him, had asked each other the tough question: Are we doing enough?

“We knew he drank and had Xanax issues, but was getting promotions at work and was an active member of the family,” said Don Kalish, adding that, while “there is always some guilt in these deaths, we did not second guess” our response.

What the couple did was get involved with Path to Recovery Foundation – Roberta became a coach, Don is president of the board – which offers weekly virtual family support meetings and counseling at a greatly reduced cost.

They are also among local people featured in the “Your Story Matters” campaign that is centered around the unique experiences of those with close ties to the opioid epidemic. To accompany this series of video testimonies, the Kane County Health Department will launch a social media campaign encouraging people to share their testimonies under the #YourStoryMatters hashtag.

The hope, noted Kane County Health Department Executive Director Michael Isaacson, is that “others who can relate will feel less alone and more comfortable reaching out and getting the help that is available.”

While recovery is “not an easy process,” insisted Kalish, “there are pathways to success.”

It’s a statement backed by another storyteller in this campaign named Penny, who has been drug-free for five years but spoke candidly in her testimonial video about “the war going on in my head all the time” that made it so hard to stop using, even when she knew it led to shame, guilt and remorse.

She also spoke eloquently about the other side to addiction – recovery. And Penny encouraged viewers to “grab a hold of it like a drowning person grabs a life preserver, because that is exactly what it is.”

It is indeed a story that matters. And I encourage you to hear more by going to www.overdoseinfo.org. Even if you are lucky enough to have never been impacted by addiction, it’s worth the listen because your heart might just be opened a little bit to the struggles of your Fox Valley neighbors.

Those 60 to 70 fatal overdoses a year in Kane County are just “the tip of the iceberg,” insisted Holtsford, referring to the countless times people who are overdosing get saved, which are cases that might never get reported.

“Dampening the stigma remains a challenge but we are moving in the right direction,” he continued. “The successes are key and we have to share them.”

[email protected]

More in Uncategorized

News Obituaries | Actor Bernard Hill, of ‘Titanic’ and ‘Lord of the Rings,’ has died at 79

Body found inside home in south deering neighborhood: police.

Crime and Public Safety | Harvey Weinstein hospitalized after his return to New York from upstate jail, lawyer says

Water quality has improved dramatically in the Chicago River. But how safe is swimming?

Trending nationally.

• New Key Bridge estimated to be completed by fall 2028, cost up to $1.9B, officials say
• Lost Utah cat found in Amazon box in California
• Readers Take Denver cancels 2025 conference after attendees decry “Fyre Festival of books”
• Harry and Meghan visiting Nigeria despite State Department’s advisory on travel there
• Ousted ABC News meteorologist Rob Marciano fired after ‘screaming match’: report

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders Often Go Untreated for Parents on Medicaid

By Emily Baumgaertner

For parents struggling with mental health or substance use disorders, access to treatment can often mean the difference between keeping and losing their children. But a new analysis of health and child welfare records found that a significant portion of those who were eligible for Medicaid coverage for such treatment were not getting it.

The analysis, published Friday by researchers at the nonprofit institute RTI International and the Department of Health and Human Services, found that fewer than half of parents on Medicaid who had substance use disorders and had been referred to authorities over suspicions of child abuse or neglect had received treatment.

Some Context: Experts say bad situations can often be reversed with treatment.

Both mental health and drug addiction crises have been roiling the country, and the effects of parental drug use and mental illness can quickly trickle down to their children . Public health experts say substance use disorders can incapacitate a previously diligent parent and lead to the involvement of child protective services.

In 2021 alone, more than seven million children were referred to authorities over worries of maltreatment, according to a federal report , and more than 200,000 were removed from their homes. But research shows that when parents seek treatment for psychiatric and substance use disorders , they are far less likely to experience family separation.

The Numbers: What the researchers found.

To calculate treatment rates among parents on Medicaid, the health insurance program for low income people, Tami Mark, a health economist at RTI, who led the research, and her colleagues drew from a new publicly available data set that used de-identified social security numbers to link child welfare records in Florida and Kentucky with corresponding Medicaid claims records from 2020.

For comparison, they also analyzed a random sample of Medicaid recipients who had no records in the child welfare system. (The study didn’t capture any counseling or medication given outside the Medicaid system, nor any cases of mental health or substance use disorders that were undiagnosed.)

Among 58,551 parents who had a child referred to welfare services, more than half had a psychiatric or substance use diagnosis, compared to 33 percent of the comparison group. About 38 percent of those with referrals who had mental health disorders and 40 percent of those who had substance use disorders had received counseling; about 67 percent of people with mental health disorders and 38 percent of those with substance use disorders had received medication.

Norma Coe, an associate professor of medical ethics and health policy at the University of Pennsylvania, who was not involved in the research, said some of the rates were worse than general Medicaid treatment figures , suggesting that some barriers could be specific to parents.

“In general, the U.S. supports parents and caregivers less than many other countries,” Dr. Coe said, “which has numerous and lasting intergenerational effects on health and wealth.”

What Happens Next: Examining the barriers.

The study’s authors highlighted an array of roadblocks to receiving counseling and medication, including stigma, inconvenience and the fear of losing parental rights.

They called for better coordination between social programs, such as integrating the data systems of child welfare and Medicaid so that it would be clear when parents needed to be connected to specific services.

But Dr. Steven Woolf, a professor of family medicine and population health at Virginia Commonwealth University who studies inequity, said there was another challenge: a shortage of treatment providers that will accept patients on Medicaid, which pays lower reimbursement rates than private insurers.

“Access to behavioral health services is inadequate in the United States,” he said, “but it’s even worse for Medicaid beneficiaries.”

Emily Baumgaertner is a national health reporter for The Times, focusing on public health issues that primarily affect vulnerable communities. More about Emily Baumgaertner

How L.A. County is trying to remake addiction treatment — no more ‘business as usual’

• Show more sharing options
• Copy Link URL Copied!

Gary Horejsi wrestled with the decision before him, knowing a life could be in his hands.

It was the third time that the woman had used drugs or alcohol since coming to CRI-Help, which runs a 135-bed residential facility in North Hollywood where people are treated for substance use disorder.

CRI-Help needed to be a safe place for people grappling with their addictions. In the past, others had been removed for less. Horejsi, the clinical director, had the final say on whether she should be discharged.

He perused her file on his computer. The woman was still trying, CRI-Help staffers told him. She hadn’t shared drugs with anyone. And if she were to leave, the risks of an overdose were graver than before.

Horejsi decided to let her stay.

“Things can’t be business as usual anymore,” their chief executive, Brandon Fernandez, later said at a CRI-Help staff meeting. If someone leaves treatment and resumes using drugs the same way they were before, “that could very well look like them dying.”

“So are we going to be willing to do something different?”

Fernandez had gathered CRI-Help staff in their North Hollywood conference room to talk about a Los Angeles County initiative that could reshape such decisions. It’s called Reaching the 95% — or R95 — and its goal is to engage with more people than the fraction of Angelenos already getting addiction treatment.

Across the country, more than 48 million people had a drug or alcohol use disorder, according to the latest results from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Only 13 million received treatment in the previous year. Among those who did not get treatment, roughly 95% said they did not think that they should.

Those numbers have collided with the grim toll of fentanyl, an especially potent opioid that has driven up deaths across the country. In Los Angeles County, the number of overdose deaths tied to fentanyl skyrocketed between 2016 and 2022, soaring from 109 to 1,910, according to a county report .

“We can’t just take the approach that we’ve been taking and kind of assume that everyone wants the services that we offer,” said Dr. Gary Tsai, director of the Substance Abuse Prevention and Control division at the L.A. County Department of Public Health. “That’s just not the reality.”

His department is trying to nudge addiction treatment facilities to change their approach, by offering financial incentives for those that meet R95 requirements. Among them: changing their rules to not automatically eject people who have a “lapse” of drug use.

Fernandez, whose organization is participating in R95, said abstinence is still its aspirational goal — and “we still have the ability to use our own clinical judgment on a case-by-case basis,” such as if people endanger other participants. But “we shouldn’t have blanket policies.”

To get R95 funding, they also cannot require people to be totally abstinent before being admitted. And under R95, treatment programs are also being encouraged to partner with syringe programs rooted in “harm reduction” — a philosophy focused on minimizing the harmful effects of drug use — to address the needs of people who may not want to enter or remain in treatment.

Some treatment providers “view us as the enemy instead of as allies,” said Soma Snakeoil, executive director of the Sidewalk Project, which provides Narcan spray to reverse overdoses and other services on L.A.’s Skid Row.

With R95, she said, “the biggest change is that harm reduction organizations and treatment providers are talking to each other in a way that was not happening before.”

The county is also prodding addiction treatment facilities to reexamine whether the way they operate could be turning people away, and look more closely at the “customer experience.” Tsai compared the situation to a restaurant drawing few customers: “How do we get more people in the door?”

Too often, “the drug dealers do a much better job of delivering their product to our patients than we do,” said Dr. Randolph Holmes, chair of government affairs for the California Society of Addiction Medicine.

When Johnny Guerrero decided to get off Skid Row and go into residential treatment in Los Angeles, he was initially turned away because he had arrived “late — maybe 10 minutes late,” the 35-year-old said.

He was only able to get in, he said, because the harm reduction worker who had taken him to the facility let him stay the night at her home, then brought him back the next morning. Even then, “there was so much paperwork. I was so dopesick. There was just hurdle after hurdle after hurdle.”

“They did not make it easy for an addict to get help,” Guerrero said.

In many cases, “the biggest barrier is just being able to get somebody on the phone” with a treatment provider, said Amanda Cowan, executive director of Community Health Project LA, which provides clean syringes and other services to people who use drugs. “When people are ready, they are ready in that moment.”

As of late March, roughly half of the addiction treatment providers that contract with L.A. County were on track to become “R95 Champions,” which could yield hundreds of thousands of dollars each in additional funding.

To get those funds, they must turn in admissions and discharge policies that adhere to the R95 guidelines, as well as an “engagement policy.” They are also supposed to meet R95 requirements in one other area of their choice, which could include a “customer walkthrough” to see what might turn away clients.

CRI-Help, for instance, had decided to change how it asks newcomers to undergo a search. “The last thing we want to do is trigger someone’s trauma history and potentially have them walk out the door,” Fernandez said.

To ensure it was consistently done with sensitivity, CRI-Help drew up a script for staffers, emphasizing that consenting to a search would help maintain a safe facility. The hope is that “they feel they’re doing something as a part of a community — versus being forced to undergo something that’s uncomfortable.”

Staffers also tell them that if they have any drugs to hand over, “there’s not going to be any consequence, you can still come into treatment,” Fernandez said. “And if we find them on you, there still won’t be any negative consequences.”

The L.A. County push comes as state and federal officials have stressed the need for “low barrier” approaches to addiction care. Even cutting back on drug use can have positive results, researchers have found .

But some of the changes can be at odds with long-standing beliefs among treatment providers, many of whom got into the field after successfully battling their own addictions in programs firmly focused on abstinence.

Many in the field think “this is what works” because it did work for them, said Vitka Eisen, chief executive of HealthRight 360, another R95 participant. But “we’re the survivors, and we don’t talk to those who didn’t survive.”

Addiction researchers have long called to reexamine how people are treated for substance use disorders. More than a decade ago, a Columbia University center found that “much of what passes for ‘treatment’ of addiction bears little resemblance to the treatment of other health conditions.”

“This is inexcusable given decades of accumulated scientific evidence attesting to the fact that addiction is a brain disease,” the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse lamented in its report.

Experts argue that part of the problem is that addiction treatment has long been separated from the rest of the healthcare system. Richard Rawson, senior advisor to UCLA Integrated Substance Abuse Programs, said a major shift was the emergence of buprenorphine, a medication for opioid addiction that could be prescribed in ordinary clinics just like medicines for other chronic conditions.

But some Southern California treatment providers have viewed using buprenorphine and other such medications as short of sobriety, UC San Diego researchers found — even as California has ushered in requirements for licensed treatment facilities to either offer or help people access such medications.

Addiction is now much more widely understood as a medical condition, but “how much of that philosophy actually gets down to the level of the counselor?” Rawson said. “I think that’s still a work in progress.”

Tsai said a challenge in rolling out R95 is the ingrained idea that “you’re ready or not” for substance use treatment. But “we don’t actually treat any other health condition that way,” he said. “You don’t tell someone with diabetes, ‘Your blood sugar has to be completely under control, and then you’ll be ready for treatment.’”

In North Hollywood, counselors and other CRI-Help employees seated around the conference table studied the R95 goals printed on an L.A. County handout. One staffer said she was struggling with a specific statement, particularly for people in a residential setting: “Requiring abstinence is too high of a bar” for treatment.

Fernandez decided to share his own story. More than a decade ago, he was struggling with drug use, which had worsened after the death of his father. He was unemployed and didn’t have a stable place to live. When an outpatient counselor suggested residential treatment, he initially brushed off the suggestion.

He changed his mind after a “tough weekend,” but had no intention of abstaining from all drugs in the long term. Fernandez said he was nonetheless welcomed at CRI-Help: “Let’s just help you out for now.”

“I came here begrudgingly with a total attitude that I was going to continue smoking weed when I left treatment. I definitely wasn’t going to stop drinking,” even as he recognized that other things he was doing might be a problem, Fernandez told the CRI-Help employees.

Among those who had gone to treatment, he asked the group, “were you ready for total abstinence on Day One?”

“No. That wasn’t even my plan,” the same staffer replied with a rueful laugh.

Still, she and others were anxious about how they would keep everyone safe if clients used drugs, especially if they tried to bring them into the facility. “That worries me a little bit,” she said.

“It worries me too,” Fernandez said.

What preoccupies CRI-Help staff is how to balance the needs of people who have had a “lapse” into drug use with maintaining a safe environment for other clients grappling with addiction.

Horejsi said in an interview that whenever someone uses — even if they don’t share their drugs — “everyone knows, and that in itself does have an effect on people. Sometimes people will feel less safe.”

But Horejsi stressed to the group that “we’re already not discharging people for using” alone.

When people have relapsed, the North Hollywood center has monitored them one-on-one in its television room until staff are sure they are safe, then decided on their next steps. Some have ultimately been moved to another CRI-Help residential facility to continue getting treatment and have a “fresh start,” he said.

The clinical director also urged his co-workers to look back at the many changes CRI-Help had already undergone, such as starting to offer medication for addiction treatment. He reminded them that years ago, CRI-Help clients could be discharged if a doctor had given them an opioid pill at the hospital.

“What about when we discharged people because they talked about getting — they glorified drugs?” said Mary Grayson, a longtime CRI-Help employee.

Leaning forward in her seat, Grayson reminded her co-workers that “CRI-Help is not what it was when I walked through those doors 25 years ago — thank God!”

It started with “two shacks on this property. Two raggedy shacks. And look at where we are now,” she said. “Without us changing and growing, we won’t be able to be who we are.”

More to Read

Many homeless in L.A. died from drugs in 2023, preliminary data show

March 29, 2024

California communities are banning syringe programs. Now the state is fighting back in court

March 19, 2024

Some D.A.s are fighting fentanyl with murder charges. Why San Francisco will join them

Feb. 26, 2024

Start your day right

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

Emily Alpert Reyes covers public health for the Los Angeles Times.

More From the Los Angeles Times

A champion of psychedelics who includes a dose of skepticism.

May 4, 2024

Entertainment & Arts

Rumer Willis hopes being transparent about Bruce Willis’ health will give people hope

May 3, 2024

Long Beach health officials declare tuberculosis outbreak a public health emergency

May 2, 2024

Tarot is everywhere. But her fresh decks are ‘a little less caftan, a little more rock ‘n’ roll’

Home — Essay Samples — Nursing & Health — Substance Abuse — Drug Abuse In America Essay

Drug Abuse in America Essay

• Categories: Substance Abuse

About this sample

Words: 657 |

Published: Mar 5, 2024

Words: 657 | Page: 1 | 4 min read

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Prof. Kifaru

Verified writer

• Expert in: Nursing & Health

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

2 pages / 1000 words

5 pages / 1590 words

3 pages / 1325 words

4 pages / 2027 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Substance Abuse

Bandura, A. (1977). Social Learning Theory. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall.Benares, C. P., & Villarama, R. A. (2002). The influence of the father-daughter relationship on women's attitudes toward interpersonal [...]

Substance abuse and mental health are two interrelated issues that have profound implications for individuals, families, and society as a whole. This essay explores the intricate relationship between substance abuse and mental [...]

Substance abuse is a major public health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It refers to the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs. Substance abuse can have [...]

Addiction is a complex and pervasive issue that affects individuals from all walks of life. In this essay, we will explore the addictions of Terry and Leon, two individuals who are in need of intervention in order to address [...]

Motivational interviewing (MI) is a counseling technique which assists the interviewee in identifying the internal motivation to change the client’s behavior by resolving ambivalence and insecurities. The term holds similar [...]

The Beatles’ were no doubt the most influential British band in the 1960’s, with their music bringing and becoming a revolution to the face of rock and roll. Their use of drugs through their music changed the way and the [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

Documentary series, 'The Synanon Fix,' shows drug rehab turned cult that was in Detroit

During the 1950s, Detroit, like other urban cities, had startling numbers of residents suffering from drug abuse and the city became the ideal starting ground for the country's first drug rehabilitation programs.

A new HBO Max docuseries, "The Synanon Fix," tells the story of the drug rehab program turned dangerous cult that operated in Detroit from 1969-80. The four-part docuseries premiered at the January 2024 Sundance Film Festival and was directed by Rory Kennedy , the youngest daughter of Robert F. Kennedy, and contains interviews with former members.

More: Rory Kennedy's 'Last Days in Vietnam' doc captures fall of Saigon

Synanon's founder Chuck Dederich, had attended a session of Alcoholics Anonymous and felt he could replicate the sober lifestyle program for drug users. Dederich would open one of the country's first interracial community drug rehabilitation centers in 1958 in Santa Monica, California.

Dederich's rehabilitation program, Synanon, operated on the foundation of "The Game," a form of attack therapy where members were encouraged to belittle and degrade each other in the worst ways.

While its method was unconventional and extreme, Synanon was leading the way for community-based drug treatment centers — the government sent researchers and Hollywood produced the film, "Synanon," in 1965.

When members were encouraged to bring their children to live at Synanon's communes, the children of Synanon were encouraged to begin "The Game" as early as 4 years old.

“The keynote of The Game was savage, angry verbal attacks on each other — ridicule, destructive attacks with no holds barred," said a former member in a 1978 interview with the New York Times.

By the early 1970s, Synanon ran 14 facilities across the country in California, Texas, New York, Washington D.C., and Michigan, with more than 10,000 members, according to "The Synanon Fix." But by 1974, the group that initially used attack therapy to treat drug abuse, would seek religious status and begin making a reputation as an abusive, dangerous cult.

It would later be revealed Synanon mandated the divorce of at least 230 married couples, according to a 1997 article by the New York Times , who would then be convinced into vasectomies, abortions, and remarriage. The group had assets of $30 to $50 million through grants and charitable trusts.

Synanon's run came to an end in 1978 with the arrests of Dederich and top officials who pleaded no contest to assault and conspiracy to place a 4½-foot rattlesnake in the mailbox of a lawyer that had successfully sued Synanon; the lawyer was bit and sent to the hospital.

Dederich took a plea deal where he gave up control of Synanon in exchange for serving no jail time. But according to " The Synanon Fix ," while he had legally passed control over to his daughter, he still ran things behind the scenes.

Related: Michigan couple disputes cult claims made in Netflix docuseries on Twin Flames Universe

By 1980, a federal court identified more than 20 cases of assaults linked to members who had been beaten for defecting from Synanon and bought more than 150 pistols and 660,000 rounds of ammunition. In 1984, a federal judge declared the organization an advocate for terror and violence.

Outside of the U.S., Synanon had established branches in West Germany, Malaysia and the Philippines — the German branch remains open today.

All about Synanon's Detroit presence

Synanon started its Detroit footprint with an $80,000 mortgage loan from the National Bank of Detroit in December 1969, according to the Wayne County Register of Deeds. Synanon would use the loan to purchase a three-story property at 18940 Schaefer Highway, just south of Seven Mile Road on the city's west side, for $100,000 from The Furniture Club of Detroit — the location would serve as Synanon's main Detroit facility until 1980.

Synanon would also rent and lease multiple properties around metro Detroit from 1967-79. The group first landed in a home in the city's Boston Edison district; but was kicked out within a year due to neighborhood complaints, said Laura Kennedy, archivist with the Detroit Public Library Burton Historical Collection .

They also operated out of a location along East Jefferson near Riverside Apartments, along West Seven Mile, and on Livernois in Ferndale. In 1979, Synanon listed its address as 1300 Lafayette , a residential cooperative in downtown Detroit.

Synanon's final attempt at expanding its Detroit presence was the purchase of the Cass Avenue Funeral Home in 1979 for $53,142.70. Once again, community backlash prohibited the needed rezoning of the historical structure and Synanon sold the funeral home, built in the early 1890s, to the Art Center Music School in 1981 for $80,000.

At the February 1970 Governor's Conference on Drug Dependence and Abuse , then-Michigan Gov. William Milliken praised Synanon while also hinting at its future downfall. Milliken, who served a 14-year tenure as Michigan's longest-serving governor , was a frequent visitor and advocate of Synanon and other rehabilitative drug and alcohol programs.

"Synanon has provided rehabilitation and hope for significant numbers of drug users," Milliken said. "We have had a Synanon facility in Detroit for some five years now, and that facility almost had to close its doors last month because it could not raise $40,000 for operating expenses. Synanon may yet close in Detroit if a permanent facility and permanent funding cannot be secured for its work."

Detroit Synanon members

Before becoming Executive Director of Detroit's Coalition for Temporary Shelter in 1982, Jarrie Tent served as Synanon's director of education, according to a biography published in the Detroit Free Press in 1984.

In an online forum dedicated to testimonials of former Synanon members, Michigander Cynthia Manuel explained how she fell into the group while a student at Wayne State University in 1968.

Manuel was a member of Synanon for eight years, ultimately moving to Santa Monica, California, with her husband, John Frazer, (whom she met in the group), and their daughter, Morgan.

Manuel posted a letter she wrote her friend Laura on Feb. 25, 1976, where she explained the latest Synanon requirements, including vasectomies, abortions and divorces.

"Since I last wrote, I plotted to 'escape' several times," Manuel wrote in the letter titled 'Confused Letter #2.' "Written in red letters on your conscience is the idea that after all Synanon has done for you — you must not only be eternally grateful and humble, but you must pay back with service."

With the help of her sister, Manuel wrote that she left Synanon on March 5, 1976, with her daughter and reestablished their home in Michigan.

"The adjustment to life outside the cult was akin to returning to Earth from another planet. I was a stranger in a strange land and no one could understand where I had been or what I had experienced," Manuel wrote in her online testimonial. "I mourned my lost community."

More: 6 who went missing in Missouri may be tied to a cult. Here's how social media draws people in.

In HBO's "The Synanon Fix," Mike Gimbel details the story of his time in Synanon, which began with a marriage to Detroiter Stephanie Andreucci. Andreucci would move to Santa Monica, California, with Gimbel to be Synanon's top chef.

"We were around each other all the time. We had built a really good friendship, and we were really, really close," Gimbel said in the docuseries. "We were doing the lunch, cleaning up ... and Chuck (Dederich) said, 'You know, the two of you are very good for Synanon.' Three days later, we were married."

Andreucci would stay with Gimbel until the late 1970s when Diederich's "changing partners" rule was instated, she was reassigned to top Synanon member Lance Kenton, son of jazz player Stan Kenton .

Kenton would later take responsibility for helping to place the rattlesnake in Morantz's mailbox and go on to serve 80 days in prison — although in an interview for "The Synanon Fix," he would not admit whether he had any real involvement.

Detroit-born jazz player Wendell Harrison said he spent time at Synanon's Santa Monica location from 1967-69. In a 2011 interview with the Detroit Free Press, Harrison said his time dedicated to sobriety at Synanon was a pivotal moment in his life story.

"It boosted my confidence and gave me a sense of direction," he said. "Before then I was a flake. The hardships you go through give you conviction. My knowledge comes from experience."

[Stream "The Synanon Fix" on HBO Max at www.max.com ]

Did you or a family member spend time at Detroit's Synanon House? Email us your story at [email protected] and we'll include it .