Drug Abuse

Abstract

Society, specifically Western society is dealing with increasing addiction to drugs. This paper will examine the history of drug abuse in America, the types of substances used, and the changes over time to what we consider to be acceptable use. This review will be used to set the background for a look at prescription drug abuse in America today examining people of all ages, and the dangers that accompany abusing legal, prescribed pain relievers, and mood altering drugs. Finally this paper will review adolescent addictions in our society today. Drug experimentation and abuse of both legal and illegal drugs is on the rise in our youngest generation. Societal norms have changed rapidly with the improvement in technology. Personal interactions are emphasized less, technology based interactions are more prevalent. Is society’s reliance on technology, and need for immediate satisfaction leading our children to addictions of all types including drugs? I will offer my opinion, and what can be done to change the direction our kids are heading.

Drug Abuse

Our society has a plague we have volunteered to endure. This plague does not discriminate against who it consumes. It does not take into account a person’s wealth, or social standing. It does not forgo our children or the elderly. It can stay hidden in the shadows or advertise its presence in a person’s life with no remorse. There are treatments for this affliction, but they come with agony, and depending on the person may only be a temporary respite. This plague kills, and it is contagious.

Drug abuse is the plague I refer to. Its affects on our society are well documented, and discussed. We hear about it thru all forms of media. Our government spends countless sums of money fighting, “the war on drugs”. There is very little separation from anyone in our society today and a person who has succumbed to this disease. We are seemingly fighting a losing battle. Our children are...