Who Are These People Who Use Drugs?

There is a segment of the population who doesn’t drink or use drugs. But many do. A small percentage of drug users become addicts, while the majority of people who use drugs do so responsibly. I’m not advocating for the use of drugs, but there is a misunderstanding about people who abuse them.

Drug addicts are thought of as the deviants of society. They are thought to be living in crack houses or under a bridge, unemployed, school drop outs, prostitutes, or pimps. Advanced addiction brings negative consequences but the majority are just like everyone else. They are your family members, your friends and your co-workers. It could be your son, daughter or grandmother. It may be you.

Here are the facts. Addiction affects everyone. Many people believe that African American males, living in poor neighborhoods, who receive housing and food stipends are more likely to abuse drugs, but research demonstrates that white young adults have the highest amount of drug use. It does not discriminate between gender, age, race, religion or class. It happens in every country. Anyone can have a genetic predisposition. And anyone can become addicted if they have easy access to illicit drugs, or if they misuse prescription medication.

Here’s why it matters. Addiction is a disease with social and medical ramifications. It can be treated. But if people continue to think of it as a character flaw or moral failing, it is less likely to be granted funding for research and treatment at the same level as other diseases. Additionally, people who suffer from addiction are more likely to be incarcerated than treated. Discrimination can discourage people from seeking and receiving treatment.

Here’s what I’m asking of you. Examine your assumptions about people who use illicit drugs. Realize that there is more to the person than their addiction. Treat them with respect as you would with any other human. Work toward the decriminalization of this disease and replace it with improved behavioral and medical care.