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Abuse vs. Addiction

In: Philosophy and Psychology

Submitted By mstoshiahardin
Words 361
Pages 2
I know individuals, including friends and family members who struggle with dependence, whether of alcohol or other substances. I will focus on my close friend who began socially using marijuana around the age of 16. He and his family moved into a mobile home park and he began spending time with older boys who lived there who introduced him to smoking marijuana. There is a fine line between distinguishing substance abuse and addiction. They are often confused one with the other. An individual may begin by experimenting or trying alcohol or a substance due to peer pressure and only use in social gatherings. Only when the substance is used beyond normal limits does it become substance abuse. In order for it to become an SUD it must meet certain criteria of the DSM-5. Those criteria are impaired control over the drug of choice, many attempts to quit are met with failure, most of individuals activities are centered around the substance, including obtaining the substance, using it and recovering from its effects. The last item of criteria is the pharmacological effects or cravings for the substance when not being used. Addiction is described as dependence upon the substance or drug of choice. Signs of addiction are personal and physical, financial and legal problems. Not being able to remain employed. There will also be withdrawal symptoms when the individual does not have access to the substance or is without it in the system. My friend continued to use marijuana and began to experiment with other illegal substances. It was not only in social situations but also when he was alone. He began to have run ins with the law and quit school. He spent time in jail and prison due to stealing to support his habits. He would get out and be drug free for a while and work steady and would suddenly disappear and begin the cycle all over again. What began as social use

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