The Problem Of Substance Abuse And Addiction - 752 Words

Introduction When taking a general psychology class it is rarely mentioned that the founding father of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud, was an avid user and promoter of cocaine before discovering the true dark nature of this supposed medical marvel. During this time in history cocaine was used medicinally as an analgesic and Freud himself was also researching other uses for this substance until he learned its addictive qualities. Even after he stopped promoting cocaine publically and considered this simply a chapter in his life, his usage did not stop entirely as he continued to use for various expressed reasons. Even in the background of this very subject substance abuse and addiction can be seen whether through research for the greater good that went bad or just addiction in its simple state. Addiction is something that has been an issue since the dawn of time. It is something that does not discriminate against gender, age, race, or economical standing. It is blind to all those facto rs and grabs hold tightly no matter the circumstance. History is dotted with drug abuse- the elephant constantly standing in the room- as it continues to be a predominant issue. It doesn’t matter the time period as trends may change the issue remains. Each generation deals with a different type of main addiction whether it was opium, whole poppy seeds, alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and now prescription drugs. â€Å"In 2013, an estimated 24.6 million Americans aged 12 or older—9.4 percent ofShow MoreRelatedAddiction And Sociality : The Problem Of Substance Abuse877 Words   |  4 PagesAddiction begins with a choice, not necessarily a choice to become dependent upon a substance, rather a choice to take a walk through the land of oblivion at least once. A person does not simply wake up one morning addicted to heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine or any other substance. Perhaps a fleeting moment of despair, or the longing for acceptance brings this individual to the doorstep of addiction, prepared to move heaven and earth to find their next fix. Bruce Alexander himself writes, â€Å"I beganRead MoreAddiction And Substance Abuse Is A Serious Problem Among Teenagers806 Words   |  4 PagesAddiction and substance abuse is a serious problem among teenagers. Teenagers begin abusing drugs because of peer pressure, or abuse in their life. Any type of drugs can be abused including over the counter medications. Since teenager’s brain is still growing any type of substance abuse can cause serious harm. The most abused drug is alcohol. Alcohol has a different effect the brain of teenagers different than that of adults. Children raised in a religious family, with religious friends areRead MoreSubstance Abuse And Addiction : Critical Health, Social And Economic Problems816 Words   |  4 Pages Specific Aims. 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Next, give the common health issue and needs. Then, give specific resources that Peoria have to offer. Finally, how substance abuse relates to Healthy People 2020. Overall, this will give one an overview of the vulnerab le population such as substance abusers. Characteristics ofRead MoreSubstance Abuse And Addictions Among Adolescence947 Words   |  4 PagesSubstance Abuse and Addictions Among Adolescence Substance abuse and addictions among adolescence is a problem among this age group. Adolescents go through major stages in life and are faced with stressful issues that can lead to experimenting with drugs. Experimenting with drugs can lead to for an adolescent to abuse the substance as well becoming addicted. Not only can a adolescent can become addicted to a substance but he or she can have issues with the brain developing properly. Spiritual development