Perception And Prejudice
Aspirin is a drug that many of us take on a regular basis; either as a temporary pain reliever or as part of a heart protection regimen. Taking it rarely causes any bodily harm and we are certainly not addicted.
However, what about the stronger, more mind altering pain relief drugs that require a doctor’s prescription before purchase? While we have the prescription, society sees this as routine and normal. Unfortunately, due to the nature of strong prescription drugs, such as Vicodin and Xanax, it is easy to become dependent upon these medications. When the prescription runs out, some will go to drastic measures to acquire painkillers.
Alcohol and tobacco nicotine can be just as addictive; but, by and large, society does not often condemn these addictions, particularly tobacco. Other drugs, such as cocaine and heroin, are illegal in all instances, unlike prescription drugs. When doctors prescribe painkillers, it is not taboo; their patient is expected to consume responsibly and not become dependent on the prescription.
Substance Abuse and Addiction
Substance abuse is not just the use of hard drugs. Anytime someone is overusing a substance that is bad for his or her health, it can be cause for concern. When it comes to addictive substances, a dependency and/or addiction can develop easily, even with prescription drugs.
Addiction harms the addict as well as their family and friends. Problems at work, school, and home can all stem from an addiction. With prescription drugs, sometimes it is harder to understand this as an actual problem or dependency because we are desensitized to use of prescription drugs. However, if you or a loved one develops an addiction to prescription drugs, treatment is available.
Therapy And Treatment
Substance abuse takes many forms, including prescription drug abuse. Contact Options Family and Behavior Services if you or a loved one is in need of therapy for their substance abuse.
