Exploring the Roots & Societal Impact of Addiction

As someone who has struggled with addiction and has since learned that untreated trauma was the root cause of my addiction, I often write about this topic to raise awareness and encourage others to seek the help they need to overcome addiction and address underlying issues. I firmly believe publicly shaming individuals for their current or past struggles with addiction does not help them overcome their addiction and can be detrimental to their recovery. Seeing others being shamed for their addiction causes me pain. A compassionate and supportive approach is more likely to increase the chances of a successful recovery.

There are many misunderstandings surrounding addiction, and I wish more people understood that it is a complex and multifaceted disorder with various root causes. Understanding this can help reduce addiction stigma and encourage struggling people to seek the help they need.

Here are a few factors that can contribute to the development of addiction:

1. Genetics: There is a vital genetic component to addiction, with people with a family history of addiction being more at risk of developing an addiction.
2. Brain chemistry: Addiction can change the way the brain functions, particularly in the areas that control reward and pleasure. These changes can lead to compulsive drug-seeking and drug-taking behavior.
3. Environmental factors: Exposure to drugs or alcohol at a young age, as well as experiencing physical or sexual abuse, can increase the risk of developing an addiction later in life.
4. Psychological factors: People who suffer from mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or trauma may be more at risk of developing an addiction as a way of self-medicating.
5. Societal factors: The availability and societal acceptance of drugs and alcohol can also play a role in the development of addiction.

Addiction is a complex disorder that can have a range of root causes and is not a personal failure. It is a chronic medical condition that requires professional treatment, similar to other health conditions. It is essential to address the underlying issues and the addiction to treat it effectively. By understanding that addiction is not a personal failing, we can help to reduce the stigma surrounding it and encourage more people to seek the help they need. When people view addiction as a personal failure, they may be less likely to seek help because they feel ashamed or embarrassed about their condition. This can prevent them from getting the treatment they need and ultimately lead to more severe consequences, such as health problems or legal issues. Understanding that addiction is a complex disorder with various root causes makes it easier to recognize that it is not a chronic health condition requiring professional treatment.

Why is addiction so stigmatized?

Addiction is often stigmatized because it is associated with negative stereotypes and misconceptions. Some people may view addiction as a personal weakness or a character flaw rather than recognizing it as a serious medical condition. There is also a longstanding history of criminalizing substance abuse and drug addiction, contributing to the negative stigma surrounding it.

Many people who struggle with addiction may be reluctant to seek help because they fear being judged or ostracized by their community. Again, I reiterate this can make it harder for them to get the treatment they need and can ultimately lead to more serious consequences. Additionally, addiction is often shrouded in secrecy and shame, which can further contribute to the stigma.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, about 21 million people in the United States aged 12 and older struggled with a substance use disorder in 2017. This represents about 8% of the population in this age range. Substance use disorders can include addiction to alcohol, prescription drugs, and illicit drugs.

It is also worth noting that addiction is not limited to substance abuse. Other types of addiction, such as gambling addiction, can also significantly impact individuals and their loved ones.

It is important to recognize that addiction does not just affect the person struggling with it. The impact of addiction can be felt by the individual’s family, friends, and community.

One of the ways that addiction can impact loved ones is through financial strain. Loved ones may have to financially support the person with an addiction or cope with the economic consequences of their actions, such as legal fees or property damage. Addiction can often lead to job loss and financial problems, affecting the entire family.

In addition to financial strain, addiction can also have a profound emotional impact on loved ones. Seeing a loved one struggle with addiction can be very difficult and cause anger, frustration, sadness, and helplessness. Loved ones may feel like they are constantly walking on eggshells or unsure how to help the person with the addiction.

Addiction can also strain relationships and lead to family conflicts and misunderstandings. It is not uncommon for loved ones to feel like they are constantly trying to fix the person with addiction, which can be emotionally draining and can lead to resentment and other negative emotions.

Furthermore, addiction can have serious physical and mental health consequences for the person with addiction and their loved ones. For example, a person with addiction may experience health problems due to substance abuse, and their loved ones may experience stress and other health problems due to dealing with the addiction.

In conclusion, it is crucial to understand that addiction is a complex and multifaceted disorder that impacts not only the person with addiction but also their loved ones and their community. Overall, it is clear that addiction does not just affect the person with the disorder but can have a ripple effect on their loved ones and their community. It is important to recognize the impact of addiction and seek help for the person with addiction and their loved ones to address this issue effectively. By taking this approach, we can work towards a more compassionate and supportive society where everyone has the opportunity to overcome addiction and live a healthy and fulfilling life.

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction and needs help, several helplines and resources are available. Here are a few options:

1. SAMHSA’s National Helpline: This is a confidential, free, 24-hour helpline that provides information about mental health and addiction treatment services. The number is 1–800–662-HELP (4357).
2. Narcotics Anonymous: This is a support group for people recovering from drug addiction. You can find a local meeting or contact them by calling their helpline at 1–866–623–7262.
3. Alcoholics Anonymous: This is a support group for people recovering from addiction to alcohol. You can find a local meeting or contact them by calling their helpline at 1–888–625–1347.
4. The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD): This organization provides information and resources for people struggling with addiction and their loved ones. You can contact them at 1–800–622–2255.

It is important to remember that you are not alone, and resources are available to help you or someone you know overcome addiction. Do not hesitate to reach out for help.

Jamie is a former addiction counselor who now writes fiction about substance abuse and mental health issues. She has authored two short novels in her Memoirs of a Black Sheep series and a series she co-authors, The Borderline Chronicles, on Amazon Kindle Vella. Jamie has also formed her own small publishing company, Flawed By Design Publishing LLC, where she produces her published works and offers other writing and media services.

Flawed by Design is a woman-owned, veteran-owned business for those who seek a writing coach, editor, or proofreader.