Substance Abuse

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Addiction is a condition that manifests when a person shows excessive patterns of harmful use of any particular substance. Initially, this continued substance use becomes compulsive and can greatly interfere with one’s every day responsibilities. Once substances appear to control the behavior of the user, it is difficult to reach out to that person and understand their means of decision-making. Substance abusers are not always aware that their decisions cause serious problems for not only themselves, but for those around them. A person who becomes dominated by their addictions can lose family, friends, and ultimately, themselves. The one constant thing that every human being has when they are born is their family. Every situation varies, especially in today’s complex society, but ultimately, each person has someone that is unconditionally there from the start. If a person is fortunate enough to have a strong familial foundation, it is likely that their family will stand by their side through all of the trials and tribulations. Although, this is not to say that loved ones are not directly affected. The misuse and abuse of drugs and alcohol have a long line of serious and harmful consequences, whether you, or your family member is the one using. Substance abuse has distinct effects on family structures, especially once it develops into a full-fledged addiction. Drug and alcohol abuse have been a problem in society for as long as we can remember. The initial reasoning for the use of a substance can definitely vary from person to person. For teenagers, it could be to fit in with their peers. For adults, it could be to unwind from stress. The fact of the matter is that substance use has to start somewhere, and that there is no predeter...

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.... I was allowing my father’s addiction to control my life. Halfway through my senior year, I got expelled from my high school due to regularly poor attendance. I never blamed my father because it was ultimately my fault, but I learned a lot from hitting rock bottom for the first (and last) time. I learned that I would never jeopardize my future on someone or something else’s behalf, especially a substance that has the potential to make you loose sight of yourself and your goals. I learned that addiction and substance abuse should never be taken lightly. There are things in this world bigger than us, and sometimes we must surrender to professional help. Support and intervention are needed, not only for the substance user, but also for their loved ones. It is essential in order to maximize ones overall natural potential, despite their chaotic environment.

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