Is Drinking, Smoking, or Doing Drugs Worth It?

Is it worth it for someone to drink, smoke, or do drugs? The answer to this complex question varies widely depending on the individual and their perspective. Broadly speaking, the realm of 'worth it' is relative and subjective. For one person, the perceived benefits may far outweigh the costs, while for others, the risks may be too high.

Unpacking 'Worth it'

When discussing whether something is 'worth it,' it’s crucial to specify what value we are aiming for. Is it worth it in terms of health, happiness, finances, or relationships? And to whom is the assessment made?

The Case of Addiction

Many individuals, especially those struggling with addiction, see their choices as highly 'worth it'—despite the significant costs involved. For instance, our older son is a drug addict who relies on multiple daily doses of marijuana. To him, the immediate relief and sleep aid outweigh the various detriments, including:

Financial costs Lack of career advancement Relationship breakdowns Overall functional impairment Time spent with unreliable and ultimately harmful cohorts

However, for our younger son who is in the Navy, the stakes are higher due to his profession. The consequences of drug use, even legal ones like marijuana, are severe, and he views them as an unacceptable risk to his promising career. To him, the cost in terms of career stability and future potential is too high to be 'worth it.'

Smoking: A Persistent Habit

Smoking is another common addicitive behavior. Our family, with the exception of one individual, engages in or have engaged in smoking. The costs are relatively low, around $0.10 per pack for generic cigarettes, making the habit financially 'worth it' to them. Yet, the health risks are significant. My younger brother was recently diagnosed with COPD, a condition directly linked to smoking, and he continues to smoke despite the health implications. Our father, who passed away from smoking-related lung issues, found it too late to quit effectively.

Alcohol: A Personal Choice

Alcohol consumption presents a similar scenario. Our husband was once an alcoholic, opting to continue drinking until health issues related to his liver and kidneys forced him to reconsider. It was too late by then, and he died within six months. My drinking history follows a similar trajectory. Early in our marriage, alcohol was a preferred pastime, but after my first pregnancy, I realized the potential damage to both myself and our future family, leading me to quit completely.

Conclusions and Recommendations

Whether drinking, smoking, or doing drugs is 'worth it' depends largely on the individual’s values and circumstances. For all, the final decision must consider not just the short-term pleasures but also the long-term consequences. Financial, health, and relationship impacts are all critical factors.

Those embarking on or considering these behaviors should thoroughly assess the risks and make informed decisions that align with their long-term goals and values. Support systems, including mental health professionals and communal resources, can be invaluable in navigating these decisions.

Meanwhile, loved ones of individuals struggling with addiction or substance abuse should offer understanding and support, helping to guide toward healthier alternatives.