Drug and alcohol addiction involves the repeated and excessive use of drugs and alcohol in order to achieve a desired outcome. This addiction encompasses both physical and psychological dependence, but fortunately, treatment is available for both aspects. Numerous studies have examined the reasons behind substance abuse, revealing that people turn to drugs and alcohol as a means of relieving untreated mental or physical pain, influenced by genetic factors or low self-esteem. Understanding drug and alcohol addiction is crucial as it not only affects the individual but also their family. The perception of drugs as positive or negative is subjective rather than objective, which can change over time. These subjective concerns influence how individuals use drugs, misuse them, determine their legality, and shape social policies” (Henslin, 2008, p. 87). Throughout history, many individuals have experienced drug addiction.
The prohibition of drugs like opium, heroin, and cocaine came about due to the significant consequences resulting from their medicinal use. Nowadays, addiction is acknowledged as an incurable disease that progresses over time and can lead to death or institutionalization if not addressed. Moreover, the growing dependence on drugs also has a detrimental impact on the people surrounding those individuals. According to Lewis (Sage, 2009), there exists a dispute regarding the efficacy of treatment.
The stigma surrounding drug addiction impedes the acknowledgment of scientific understanding regarding this issue and the endeavors to combat it (1997). Henslin (2008) states that different theories provide diverse outlooks on drugs as a societal concern. Symbolic interactionists view drug addiction as significant symbols that influence social interactions. People may hold differing opinions on drugs, with some considering them a mere form of entertainment they can do without, while others perceive them as essential. Functionalists examine drugs in relation to their functions and dysfunctions.
According to conflict theorists, drugs that impair both physical and social functioning are considered dysfunctional. They argue that drugs can be used as a tool of political manipulation. Authorities can employ law enforcement by criminalizing a drug commonly used by a specific group. On the other hand, the state may legalize a drug to protect and benefit favored groups who profit from it. As Henslin (p. 95, para 4) highlights, throughout history, powerful individuals have exploited drugs to gather public support against marginalized groups. It is worth noting that the same drug can have different effects on different individuals.
The experience a person has with drugs is affected by three main factors: the drug itself, the individual taking it, and the setting in which it is consumed. The effects of a drug can vary depending on factors such as dosage, quality, and method of administration. Additionally, how a drug affects someone can be influenced by their emotional state—whether they feel relaxed, depressed, or anxious. Factors like body weight and metabolism also play a role in determining how a drug will affect an individual. Furthermore, the environment where drugs are consumed can impact expectations and potentially alter the effects of the drug (Henslin, 2008). In America, alcohol is commonly chosen for socializing purposes and individuals who struggle with severe alcohol problems are often referred to as alcoholics.
Around ten million Americans are classified as alcoholics, and a portion of them can be observed begging for money on the streets. The costs associated with alcohol-related crimes and social welfare are substantial. Among all drug-related problems, alcohol stands out as the most expensive one. Each year, drinking alcohol leads to 17,000 fatalities in car and truck accidents in the United States alone. Consumption of alcohol has both positive and negative effects on health. Research indicates that moderate intake can reduce the risk of heart attacks and promote the production of beneficial cholesterol. However, it is ultimately the manner in which one consumes alcoholic beverages that determines the ultimate outcomes.
Excessive alcohol consumption can have severe consequences for the body, such as heart attacks, cancer, and issues with various bodily systems (Henslin 2008). In addition, drug and alcohol dependence can contribute to instances of domestic violence. Several studies have confirmed this link, including one that discovered that half of those in a batterer treatment program also experienced difficulties with alcohol abuse (Reyna, 2008). However, it is crucial to recognize that some individuals grappling with substance abuse genuinely strive to regain control over their addiction.
However, the individual’s attempt to quit ultimately fails because they have an illness. The act of using drugs is a manifestation of their addiction. There are indicators that can indicate frequent drug use. Some of these indicators include fluctuations in weight, missing money or possessions when they are around, avoiding and isolating from family members, deterioration of relationships, sudden outbursts of violence and anger, and drastic shifts in moods and personality. When these consequences arise, a person’s life becomes unmanageable and descends into misery, loneliness, and fear.
The neglect of personal hygiene and health among addicts leads to consequences such as the loss of employment, relationships, and support networks (Sage, 2009). Among recreational drugs, nicotine is the second most popular. Extensive research conducted in the latter part of the twentieth century greatly enhanced our knowledge regarding the health effects linked to smoking. To raise awareness about these risks, advertising campaigns and anti-smoking initiatives were launched. Consequently, no-smoking policies were enforced in different settings including businesses, government buildings, aircrafts, and buses. Tobacco companies dedicate 10 billion dollars each year towards promoting tobacco products.
The negative impact of reduced tobacco usage on tobacco manufacturers is significant. The annual global death toll, often referred to as the brown plague, reaches approximately 5 million lives. Most of these victims are men residing in the Least Industrialized Nation. During the 1990s, the government took legal action against tobacco companies due to their substantial role in generating high Medicaid bills for these victims. As a result, the states received a total payment of 209 billion dollars over a period of 25 years in exchange for dropping their lawsuits. Surprisingly, this settlement did not lead to any closure or harm to any of the tobacco companies involved.
According to Henslin (2008), cigarette companies increased prices for addicted smokers to cover settlement costs. Previously an underground drug enjoyed by a few, marijuana is now the third most popular recreational drug in the United States. In 1979, about one-third of Americans smoked marijuana monthly, but its popularity has since declined while remaining a favored choice among users.
Marijuana carries various health consequences including harm to the immune system, reduction of male sex hormone levels and fertility, chromosome damage, and brain damage. However, research also shows positive effects such as relieving glaucoma and migraines.
Despite potential benefits and risks, limited further research on marijuana’s positive and negative effects exists due to its social reputation. Around two to three percent of marijuana smokers become addicted within two years of their first joint. Heavy users may struggle with concentration, lose sight of long-term goals, and experience lethargy.
The subjective nature of people’s reactions contributes to social problems surrounding marijuana use. It can be seen as both a societal threat and a medical treatment (Henslin, 2008).
In the 1500’s, when the Spaniards conquered people from Peru that chewed coca leaves, cocaine originated. The Spaniards labeled cocaine as evil due to its perceived negative effects. However, as more Europeans experimented with the drug and doctors discovered its medical applications, cocaine gained popularity and widespread social acceptance. By the late 1800’s, it became a key component in patent medicines and physicians praised its benefits. During the early 1900’s, using cocaine was still legal but only as an ingredient.
The Harrison Act of 1914 classified cocaine as a narcotic and banned its sale. It is estimated that about 15 percent of Americans aged 12 and older have used cocaine, with approximately 2.5 million people using it monthly. Although cocaine has medical uses, its main purpose is to achieve euphoria, which creates feelings of happiness, positivity, self-confidence, skillfulness, and increased energy. Additionally, cocaine is known for enhancing sexual desires and stamina. Another form of cocaine called crack produces an intensely pleasurable feeling similar to an orgasm.
The harmful consequences associated with cocaine use include addiction, crack babies, heart attacks, brain damage, and death. There are also other addictive drugs categorized as hallucinogens such as LSD, Peyote, Mescaline, Psilocybin, PCP, and Ecstasy. Users have reported diverse effects on the body and varied experiences when using these drugs (Henslin, 2008). Both drug and alcohol addiction are highly physically addictive substances that can be treated; however, when the body becomes dependent on them to achieve a normal state of being, their absence results in excruciating pain and discomfort known as withdrawal.
Opiates, benzodiazepines, ethyl alcohol, and amphetamines are substances found in drugs that can lead to dependence with continued use. Furthermore, nicotine, caffeine, beta-blockers, anabolic steroids, and Quaaludes also possess addiction potential. Various treatments are available for individuals struggling with drug and alcohol addiction (Brooks, 2009), including detoxification and counseling. Buprenorphine and Prometa Protocol represent two innovative treatment options for overcoming addiction (Gracer, 2008). Those who are addicted can seek admission into a treatment program to receive the necessary help.
Individuals entering rehabilitation centers must be drug-free and undergo a drug test to ensure compliance. This measure is taken to safeguard the well-being of all involved. It is important to note that detoxification processes vary among different centers, with some not offering this service. Given the challenging nature of detoxification, professional assistance is crucial in effectively supporting addicts during this period.
Having a skilled and competent professional overseeing the detoxification process is crucial for individuals with drug or alcohol addiction. Detoxing from alcohol can result in delirium tremors, characterized by hallucinations and aggressive behavior. To alleviate discomfort during detox, patients are typically prescribed medication that mimics the effects of the addictive substance. This gradual reduction of dependency helps prevent distress. The detox process usually lasts at least a week and is followed by milder secondary withdrawal symptoms compared to the initial ones.
After completing the detoxification process, it is recommended for patients to engage in a rehabilitation program (Brook, 2009). Counseling is an effective approach for addressing drug and alcohol addiction as it assists individuals in reintegrating into society in a healthy manner. These counseling sessions encompass both group and individual therapy, which are regarded as the most impactful form of treatment (Brook, 2009). Moreover, the utilization of the 12 Step Program aids clients in sustaining abstinence and sobriety. This treatment center offers a comprehensive 12 Step program with different stages tailored to various levels of recovery.
There program consists of three stages of care: the primary care, the most intense, and the secondary and tertiary. Additionally, there is the extended primary which is pricier but offers a longer in-patient stay. The extended primary allows patients to undergo intensive therapy for an extended period to increase their chances of abstinence. The 12 Step Program involves individual counseling sessions, group therapy, and written assignments.
Transportation is available for clients to attend regular 12 Step meetings, important for their recovery. Living a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise and proper eating greatly benefits the clients. The program has a high success rate in therapy and provides strong support for post-treatment life. Combining counseling, the 12 Step Program, and a healthy lifestyle can help individuals with addiction stay sober (Sage, 2009). Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) has been successful for alcohol addiction and its principles have been adapted to other drug addictions.
The AA is an organization that was founded in Akron, Ohio in 1935 by two individuals who had personally overcome addiction to alcohol. It is now a global association and its staff members have firsthand experience with addiction and recovery.
The group of Alcoholics Anonymous defines its main principles and steps, known as The Twelve Steps, to conquer alcohol addiction. These steps include acknowledging powerlessness over alcohol and the unmanageability of one’s life, believing in a higher power to aid in restoring wellbeing, making the decision to surrender one’s will and life to God (as per personal understanding), conducting a truthful self-examination, openly admitting wrongdoings to God, oneself, and another person, being prepared to collaborate with God to eliminate character flaws, seeking divine help to address shortcomings, creating a list of people harmed and being willing to make amends whenever feasible without causing harm, continually self-reflecting and acknowledging mistakes in a timely manner.
11) The practice of prayer and meditation is encouraged to enhance one’s connection with God, as per their own understanding. By doing so, individuals can seek knowledge of God’s will for themselves and gain the strength to follow through.
2) Through these steps, a spiritual awakening is experienced. It is important to share this message with other individuals struggling with alcoholism, while also applying these principles in all interactions with others.
To maintain abstinence, weekly meetings are conducted where members can put these steps into practice alongside fellow members. Additionally, they receive the contact information of a member who has successfully gone through the process, providing a support system for any time it may be needed.
Opiates, alcohol, cocaine, and methamphetamine addiction can now be treated using Buprenorphine and Prometa Protocol. Buprenorphine is specifically utilized for opiate addiction treatment. Its mechanism involves stimulating the opiate Mu receptors in the brain, similar to how opiates themselves function. This stimulation leads to pain relief and relaxation. The effects become more pronounced as the dosage of hydrocodone, oxycodone, morphine, or heroin increases. Higher doses result in desensitization and physical changes associated with drug addiction. Excessive drug intake can lead to overdose and death. However, Buprenorphine helps eliminate drug cravings by partially activating the Mu receptors. It has a long-lasting effect and only needs to be taken twice daily.
The kappa receptor is blocked by Buprenorphine, resulting in the occurrence of various withdrawal symptoms. Thus, Buprenorphine aids in eliminating cravings and allows for a gradual decrease in dosage, enabling patients to resume normal lives. The Prometa Protocol is utilized to treat cocaine, methamphetamine, and alcohol addiction. Without this treatment, patients experience fatigue and irritability for an indefinite period. However, the treatment effectively eliminates cravings and provides immediate improvement. A study involving 50 methamphetamine addicts demonstrated positive effects in 90 percent of participants.
The treatment takes one to three weeks to complete and has long-lasting results (Gracer, 2008). In conclusion, drug and alcohol addiction is a devastating disease characterized by excessive and repeated use of substances to achieve a desired effect. This addiction can cause destruction in the lives of individuals, relationships, and families. However, if addicts are able to cease their drug and alcohol use, they can become successful and productive individuals. Treatment options include detoxification and counseling, Alcohol Anonymous, twelve step programs, Buprenorphine, Prometa Protocol, and embracing a healthy lifestyle to maintain abstinence and sobriety.
