The Evolution of Drug Use in the United States: A Modern Epidemic
The Increase in Drug Use in the United States
The increase in drug use of all kinds in the United States has been a consistent trend for over a decade. While any demographic might be affected, certain groups have seen significant increases in consumption. For instance, the gap in heroin use between men and women has narrowed over the past twenty years, with the rate among women increasing by a staggering 100% between 2002 and 2013. This trend continues, making women among the fastest-growing demographics of substance use disorders, with nearly five million women over the age of twelve suffering from one.
Additionally, just under four million women abuse or misuse prescription drugs, and more than three million use illicit drugs regularly. The teen demographic is also not immune, with non-medical use of prescription painkillers, alcohol, methamphetamine, and other illicit substances matching or exceeding the rates in boys of the same age group.
Revelations on Prescription Painkillers
Fear of License Loss: Doctors often prescribe painkillers to patients who express concerns about their ability to manage pain. This fear, combined with patient pressure, can lead to overprescription, which eventually results in people venturing towards alternatives to achieve pain relief or a high. Prescription painkillers have become a significant gateway to drug addiction, often leading users to more dangerous substances.
Nature of Necessity: There is a growing realization that many individuals who begin taking prescription painkillers do so because their situation does not leave them with any other choice. The fear of losing their medical license or reputational standing can drive a doctor to prescribe painkillers even without a clear diagnosis for chronic pain. This can set the stage for a chain of events where the patient becomes hooked and then seeks out alternative drugs to manage their pain or achieve a high.
The Opioid Epidemic in Philadelphia: Kensington Philadelphia Drug Problem
OPEN AIR DRUG MARKET: The area of Kensington in Philadelphia is a stark example of the drug problem in the United States. This neighborhood is often referred to as an open-air drug market. The phrase Kensington Philadelphia drug problem accurately describes the situation. The area has become a haven for illegal drug activities, with daily drug dealing and stretches of the city bustling with drug-related activity. This neighborhood has become a microcosm of the larger antibiotic addiction crisis in the country.
What makes Kensington unique is its visibility and the clear photos and videos that capture the pervasive drug trade. It serves as a constant reminder of the widespread nature of addiction and the need for immediate action. Contrary to popular belief, drug addiction is not confined to certain stereotypes but often reflects a broader societal issue where individuals, despite their best efforts, find themselves unable to handle the stresses and challenges of life.
Blaming External Factors
There is a tendency for individuals to blame external factors when confronted with addiction issues. Many Americans struggle with emotional and mental development, often remaining in a state of arrested development. This can lead to a default mechanism for problem-solving, which is to externalize blame. Instead of taking personal responsibility for the consequences of their choices and actions, individuals often point fingers at their environment or societal conditions. This mindset not only exacerbates the problem but also stalls progress in addressing the root causes of drug addiction.
Addressing the opioid crisis in the United States requires a multidimensional approach, including stricter regulatory measures for prescription painkillers, increased access to treatment options, and community support systems. It is crucial to recognize that the struggle with drug addiction is not limited to any specific demographic but is a reflection of systemic issues within society.