Quote:
Originally Posted by Zippy
er, I was the one who said it so obviously I accept it. 
and Im not interested in having credibility. Im not an expert on drugs...neither are you. I came into this thread stating that I generally see drug users as weak minded. I stand by that but understand there are exceptional cases.
Beyond thinking theyre weak minded I cast no great judgement on them. Everybody knows recreational drugs can lead you to a bad place. If you choose to take that route then you have made your bed.
Again, Im not referring to medication drugs. |
I wouldn't describe myself as an expert either , but i do work in a drug and alcohol rehab and from experience i don't see addicts as weak minded, pathetic or useless in fact many of our clients are highly intelligent, creative and successful people and of those who are not when recovered go on to do amazing things. I believe the bottom line with drug use is that people want or need to change the way they feel, that is the common denominator that is combined with the physical addiction. medicinal drugs taken as prescribed are not considered a problem, but many addicts do abuse them for for the same reasons they would abuse any other drug. It is an interesting job and a real privilege to work with such an interesting an diverse set of clients. there are lots of theories about why addiction takes hold of a person, it's not just peer pressure but that obviously plays a part for many. Out of any group of teenage friends who smoke puff and use party drugs it's normal for one or two to go on to become addicts and it is often the more sensitive ones who for the first time feel more able to socialise or find a relief escape difficult feelings. unconscious self medication for various mental ailments and conditions , from depression, reactive stress (after a bereavement for eg) to mild autistic conditions. To say these people are somehow inherently weak (implying lack of moral fiber) is a common misunderstanding which fuels the stigma about addiction and addicts. I don't mean to sound like a complete soft touch, addicts through their addiction can often be a total pain in the arse and cause untold misery to their families and communities and have to face the consequences for this like anyone else. I'm just challenging the notion of them being completely weak, pathetic and useless. thanks x