Almost every person has a sad story concerning a family member, relative, or friend whose dreams were shattered by alcohol or drug addiction. The pain and agony that such memories evoke cannot be fully captured in words. This is because, in some cases, victims succumb to complications resulting from addiction. More and more people are getting addicted to alcohol and other harmful drugs without considering the danger that such habits pose to their lives.
Research-based organizations seeking to unravel the mystery behind the skyrocketing cases of drug and substance abuse have all pointed to the fact that victims tend to be naive about the destructive nature of such addictions. Well-meaning organizations like Impact Recovery Center have taken a different approach in dealing with this serious matter affecting lives.
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Which factors could precipitate alcohol and drug addiction?
Virtually every victim of alcohol drug addiction will attribute a particular event to their predicament. The environment has an overwhelming bearing when it comes to incidences of addiction. Some of the common environmental factors that have led victims down this path include:
· Peer pressure: This is especially relevant in teenagers who tend to spend a lot of time in groups. The pressure to fit into a particular group could easily compel them to engage in destructive habits.
· Relationship matters-Breakups contribute significantly to the number of addiction cases that exist. Those affected find it difficult to accept the turn of events and resort to alcohol and other drugs to suppress reality.
· Financial matters-Money is required to meet a lot of needs in the life of a human being. Not having it means that one is unable to fulfill several responsibilities. This can be so frustrating, especially when a family is involved. Such frustrations, if not properly handled, can push someone to alcoholism or drug abuse and addiction.
What are the effects of alcohol and drug addiction?
There is no denying the fact that alcohol and drug addiction have negatively affected society. The very delicate social fabric continues to fray as a consequence of increased cases of addiction. Below are some ways that people have been affected:
Infections
The person who abuses alcohol and other drugs is more susceptible to engaging in unprotected sex with strangers. In the process, they can end up contracting sexually transmitted diseases like; syphilis, gonorrhea, and even AIDS. This is made possible because once someone is high, it is difficult to look at things objectively and make an informed judgment or decision.
Financial problems
Alcohol and drugs are expensive to purchase. This is especially because such purchases have to be made regularly to satisfy the obvious cravings and longings that come with such habits. In some cases, victims are forced to steal to quench their thirst for alcohol or drugs.
Legal consequences
In many countries, excessive consumption of alcohol and a wide range of harmful drugs is highly prohibited. Those who go ahead to engage in these activities are always at risk of facing the wrath of the law by either being fined some amount or, worse, still going to jail. Driving licenses can also be suspended for a long duration of time.
Final remark
As destructive as alcohol addiction and drug addiction are, there is hope that someone can fully recover from these entanglements. It is equally important to note that those affected must be willing to move in a new direction because, ultimately, this entire process will rely on their cooperation to succeed. The success of any society will be determined by how much its population is free from alcohol and drug addiction. It requires collective effort to fight this menace.
