You might say that drug addiction is “elementary,” our dear readers. After all, nowadays, search engines like Google and Bing allow you to learn about addictive substances with the click of a button or (in this case) the drop of a deerstalker hat. We can only imagine what one world famous detective would have done with supercomputers in Victorian England. Possibly one of the greatest literary characters of all time, Sherlock Holmes (created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle) solved countless mysteries in his career, from battling hellhounds on the British moors to uncovering precious gems in the Orient. However, if you are a fan of the mystery stories, did you ever notice he had a tendency to use a notable smoking device and reach for white powder far too often? In fact, Mr. Holmes’ pipe has become as much a symbol of detective stories as his trademark hat. In time for the new year, let’s celebrate the legacy of this famous mystery-solver by cracking the case of the “Exuberant Drug Escapades of Sherlock Holmes.”
The Case of the Crumbling Cocaine
In the novel A Study in Scarlet (1887), the novel which initially introduces us readers to the famous detective, Dr. Watson expresses great concern over Holmes’ use of drugs, specifically cocaine. At one point in the story, the doctor even elaborates on the way his friends’ eyes glaze and how Holmes rampantly paces around the room until he “finds relief.” As part of a common practice in Victorian-era England, Holmes injects cocaine.
The Obligatory Opium Opposition
In the story “The Man with the Twisted Upper Lip,” Watson finds Holmes (disguised as an older man) in an opium den in East London. Although the detective reassures his friend that he does not habitually use opium, Holmes explains he is indulging because he is “undercover.” Although he was never addicted to any form of opioids (according to the author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle), Holmes did experiment with opium.
The Proliferous Pipe Problem
As you may have guessed, Sherlock Holmes was a bit of a chain smoker during his career, evidenced by the iconic pipe he smokes in his off-time. Furthermore, the detective was fond of cigars, but he was refused to smoke any brand of cigarette. According to the stories, Holmes had three types of designer pipes, which he would interchange and fill with quality tobacco.
Seeking Treatment for Drug Abuse and Addiction
Always remember that alcohol does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your alcohol abuse or addiction troubles today.
