There is no question that those who struggle with addiction experience a trailing stigma behind them. As we progress in society with new treatments and better facilities, the harmful and inaccurate stigmas of the past should fade away. Yet, as this systemic issue grows, society’s judgment seems to continue. This article discusses the remaining decision that comes against those struggling with addiction. Next, we will deconstruct these statements, bringing to light the true nature of those in addiction. The fact of the matter is, addiction is a disease, not a result of moral weakness or a defect of character.
The Growing Epidemic
Coffee, tobacco, and even sleep medications have become common substances in American society. These substances have been relied on to the point that caffeine, tobacco, and Nyquil addictions are commonplace. We aren’t quick to label a coffee lover as someone struggling with addiction. Often, if they are given that label, it is out of humor. However, these reliance are not behaviorally different than an individual’s addiction to alcohol or drugs. The difference lies in the substance’s ability to destroy. While we often overlook this smaller reliance, medicine, prescription, and alcohol addictions are growing.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), marijuana and hallucinogen use reached an all-time high in 2022. The use of prescription medication at the point of obsession is also a growing epidemic. In a study, more than 40% of surveyed 18-year-old individuals reported experiencing at least two symptoms of substance use disorder (SUD) across all substances. This is not just an issue for adults but young American teens as well. It is spreading to the youngest generation causing damaging downstream effects. The severity of addiction in the US is not just a problem; it’s a growing disease that needs to be noticed before it grows out of control. That is not done through sordid judgment but empathetic recognition.
Current Discourse
A study published by Psychiatric Services revealed that people feel more negatively towards those with addiction than those with mental health issues. The problem with this viewpoint is that addiction is a mental health issue. Introducing drug use does not put the patient in less need of mental health help. It is simply a byproduct. Yet, there is open discrimination against those who have previously had an addiction and those that still deal with one.
The seeming reason for this concerns the behavior of those battling addiction. This opinion has shrouded those within addiction in a shameful light. It is dealt with by condemnation and judgment that they still use drugs. This is without the understanding that drug addiction is not a personal choice but a physiological impulse that requires professional treatment for recovery to take place.
Instead of spreading a harmful narrative of those in addiction, it would be more productive to point users toward treatment. Addiction is a disease that needs to be treated like a condition. It cannot be willed or thought away. Addiction treatment takes a societal effort to recognize those struggling with addiction to help move them forward out of mental poverty.
Moral Obligation
While we may want to help those struggling with addiction, it cannot be easy to put it into practice. However, there are ways to identify those struggling with addiction. One sign is if this individual has obsessive thoughts or actions. If they seem to be distracted by needing to do or accomplish something, it may be a focus on the need for another dose. When an individual downplays their use of substances or drug use but continues to show abnormal behavior, it may be a sign of more habitual use.
These symptoms can also reflect themselves physically. Warnings to pay attention to are enlarged pupils, sudden weight change, bloodshot eyes, insomnia, aggressive behavior, etc., which they may be using regularly. These can show up together, or they could happen at different times you see them. If a friend or family member exhibits these symptoms, please get in touch with them regarding their behavior. You may be the difference between their addiction and their freedom. While we may only know the person loosely, your observation could show them that treatment is necessary. We still have a moral obligation to help those in need. No action is too small.
Addiction Treatment Is Vital
Substance abuse has become more and more of a societal issue. Not only is it affecting adults, but it’s also beginning in high school for many teenagers. We no longer have the luxury of turning a blind eye to those struggling with drugs or alcohol. For rates to decline, we must be vigilant of those around us. This includes people we love or wouldn’t suspect would fall prey to addiction, which is why addiction treatment is vital. We are committed to pulling people out of substance abuse to set them back on the right track. Addiction is fatal. We must fight to stop its destruction.
First Steps Recovery has built facilities and services that help patients fight addiction. We aim to not only treat people with addiction but to ensure that they achieve long-term sobriety. This includes detoxification, inpatient treatment, and outpatient care. We walk with our patients every step of the journey, ensuring their needs are being served. No addiction is too late for treatment. If you feel that you are struggling with addiction, we ask you to consider our residential rehabilitation center. We are prepared to offer holistic and individualized care to best treat you. If you are friends with someone who is struggling with addiction or are struggling yourself, please call us at (844) 489-0836 for more information.
First Steps Recovery has built facilities and services that help patients fight addiction. We aim to not only treat people with addiction but to ensure that they achieve long-term sobriety. This includes detoxification, inpatient treatment, and outpatient care. We walk with our patients every step of the journey, ensuring their needs are being served. No addiction is too late for treatment. If you feel that you are struggling with addiction, we ask you to consider our residential rehabilitation center. We are prepared to offer holistic and individualized care to best treat you. If you are friends with someone who is struggling with addiction or are struggling yourself, please call us at (844) 489-0836 for more information.
