Alcoholism and Drug Addiction: Siamese Twins of Social Disorders

This might easily be construed as an off-beat entry here, but it’s not. I have always been an anti-drug-use advocate since college. Not only that, I was an alcoholic myself. I never realized it, ‘till this problem wreaked havoc in my career and relationships. I had to seek help and undergo treatment to free myself from alcoholism. Some of us may have these problems without realizing it. In a brief, what is addiction? How does one get out this bondage?

“Addiction is defined as an overuse of any substance that changes the natural chemical balance of the brain. It is basically agreed upon that addiction encompasses biological, psychological, and behavioral factors.” Though addiction can be identified easily as an individual problem, it does not negate the fact that alcoholism and drug addiction are Siamese twins of social disorders. These social ills transcend classes in our society. These are not problems that plagued only the rich and the famous, because they have an unlimited access to ‘booze’ and the money to spend, but of the lower spectrum of our society as well. Unfortunately, many young professionals seem to have these issues. Casual conversation with them would reveal that they use the boost that drugs offer in order to cope with the challenges of work or pursuit of careers.

These social disorders, like other social issues, are curable. With proper treatment and counseling, anyone can be freed from this bondage. The key is assisting an individual with any of these problems to realize that he has a problem. Then find and undergo alcohol rehab and/or drug treatment programs that will help him get out of addiction. There are hosts of drug rehab programs and facilities today that offer such effective services which can easily be tapped. Help somebody today and refer him/her to one. Let us help our society rid of these Siamese twins of social disorders.