Reasons For Drug Use

            The simplest way to explain why Americans use so many legal drugs is, because we like the way they make us feel.  If we have a headache, we reach for a bottle of ibuprofen or Tylenol to relieve the pain and make us feel better.  In the morning, I reach for the coffee pot to get my morning dose of caffeine to give me my morning “pick me up.”  Alcohol is used in a variety of ways that may not necessarily lead to abuse.  I frequently go out to dinner and see people having a glass of wine with dinner, and others have a “nightcap” before going to bed so they can relax.  In either case, alcohol affects the Central Nervous System (CNS) to promote a euphoric feeling in the drinker.

            The media is a major influence in the use of prescription and over the counter (OTC) drugs.  Rarely do I watch a program that doesn’t contain a commercial for antidepressants, joint pain treatments, medicines to combat itchy, watery, eyes, or birth control aids.  In the short time I’ve spent typing this post I’ve seen a commercial for each of these, and also one restaurant commercial with people using alcohol.  Social media is becoming an even greater force in promoting drug use.  According to the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA), teenagers who spend time daily on social media sites such as Facebook and Myspace are at increased risk of smoking, drinking, and abusing prescription and illegal drugs (Pharmacy Times, 2011).

            I don’t believe any one particular model of addiction is effective in explaining drug and alcohol addiction.  I believe a biopsychosocial assessment (BPSA), which combines the Biological, Psychological, and Social models is the most effective.  As a substance abuse counselor, I conduct and extensive BPSA intake interview with clients.  In most cases I find evidence to support each of the models, with most of the clients being adult children or grandchildren of addicts or alcoholics.  Thinking errors attributed to seeking pleasure to avoid pain is reinforced by the euphoria produced by using their substance of choice.  These clients also surround themselves with others who participate in the same or similar addictions and their behaviors are reinforced by a negative support system.

            Decriminalizing illicit drugs would not be appropriate in cases involving drugs such as heroin, methamphetamine, bath salts, K2, or other similar substances.  As a retired police officer I find myself in an ethical dilemma after enforcing drug related laws for over twenty years.  One drug that I believe society may benefit from legalizing is marijuana.  While it is obviously an unhealthy drug, millions of dollars are being spent each year to combat the illegal trade, prosecute offenders, and incarcerate offenders.  Legalizing the substance would free up these dollars to be spent on treatment of addictions and educating the public on the negative effects of these substances.

Break free of your addictions!  If you or someone you know are ready to seek help, contact Coastal Wellness Counseling now for a free consultation.  Addiction is progressive - so is recovery!!

Reference

Social media tied to teens' drug use. (2011, October). Pharmacy Times, 77(10), 94. Retrieved from http://go.galegroup.com.ezproxy.liberty.edu:2048/ps/i.do?id=GALE%7CA305838234&v=2.1&u=vic_liberty&it=r&p=AONE&sw=w&asid=e0a654aabdf6010fab00f86693563219