TV Shows That Portray Grim Realities Of Addiction

In a majority of cases, we have watched a variety of sitcoms or late-night comedies that have, in some way or another, portrayed substance abuse in a humorous manner. From Homer Simpson’s shenanigans on The Simpsons (1989-present) to Elaine’s accidental drunken escapade on Seinfeld (1988-1998), TV has somehow served as a gateway for exposing life’s dirtiest secrets and helping us laugh at each one. Though, for every hilarious moment, some shows have exposed the realities of drug use in such a grim manner, you have to wonder if some of the writers had real-life experience with people who suffered from these problems. For today, let’s take a closer look at some TV shows that portray the grim realities of addiction.

This Is Us (2016-present)

One of the few shows to combine drama and comedy in unexpected ways, This Is Us seemed to be a bonafide hit from the start, receiving award-after-award nomination for its portrayal of real-life struggles, among them drug problems. Early on, the audience is introduced to Kevin (Justin Hartley), a man who has been spiraling into a cesspool after denial while he copes with his severe addiction to painkillers. At one point, in the episode “Number One,” Kevin eventually hits rock bottom, allowing viewers to appreciate the gravity of addiction at its core.

Shameless (2011-present)

Having been renewed for another season, Shameless is pretty much prepared to top some new charts as another history-making series, and most of that is thanks to the incredible writers and irreplaceable cast. For many of us, the show presented one tagline: we’ve all seen William H. Macy play the straight guy, but what would happen if he played the drunken con? Needless to say, we’ve been following the Gallagher family from the beginning, and the show continues to triumph through its portrayal of family ties (not always the good ones). Despite his severe case of alcoholism, Frank Gallagher still has the support of his family, despite the fact that his sickness is dragging each one of them down with the ship.

The Trade (2018-present)

Unlike This Is Us and Shameless, Showtime’s The Trade is a documentary mini-series focusing on the dangerous realities surrounding America’s Opioid Crisis. Viewers follow cast members on a chaotic path with multiple stops, including Columbus, Ohio and Guerrero, Mexico, among other opioid hotspots. We learn about the loopholes in our borders and how drugs are being smuggled past patrol parties. In the end, this series definitely shows us that drugs are not the only problem in this crisis; the people are, as well.

Seeking Treatment for Drug Addiction or Alcoholism    

Alcoholism or drug addiction are dangerous sicknesses that should never be taken lightly. All it takes to fall off the wagon and become sick is to take that first sniff, snort, injection, or shot before you are rolling downhill into insanity. Still, you can always push the train back up, but it will be a difficult hike. However, with the right mixture of perseverance and determination, you can easily get back on track and be happy once more.

Are you suffering from a severe case of alcoholism or drug addiction? Do you have a friend or a loved one who is coping with the same illness? In both cases, get in touch us at with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of drug withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.

If you are seeking more information about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.