Issues: Drugs

Why do people use drugs?

A common mistake is to focus only on 'misuse' or 'abuse'. Misunderstandings may arise because of our understanding of the word 'drug'. This includes medicine, legal and illegal substances, although many people act as if it only includes the last named. An information leaflet called 'The Works' from Hope UK includes alcohol, tobacco and solvents in its description of the common drugs used for 'social' purposes. It is helpful to understand why people choose to consume drugs. Their reasons are often positive - the same sorts of reasons that might apply to any activity of choice:-

  • Enjoyment - they enjoy the short-term effects
  • Excitement - risk taking
  • Poor self-image
  • As a declaration of independence
  • Adventure
  • Peer influence - their friends use them
  • Poor decision making skills
  • Boredom
  • Curiosity - they are curious about the effects
  • Anger, hurt or rejection
  • Self medication
  • Relaxation
  • Inaccurate information about the effects
  • Drugs are easily available

Many people enjoy their drug use. They may see no problem and, if they use an illegal drug like cannabis, they may argue that this is safer than drinking alcohol.

Dependency
Dependency


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