When you lay the cards on the table, you will begin to realize the drugs and alcohol are a bit of a mixed bag of tricks. On one hand, the occasional glass of wine or the required dose of painkillers are viewed as potentially healthy lifestyle choices (as both can help the body heal). On the other hand, binge drinking and heroin injection are considered taboo and 100% distasteful. Obviously, we understand where to draw the line with certain types of drug use and alcohol use, but where does that line start to waver? Is there a tipping point where behaviors are tolerated over others (even the bad ones)? Let’s take a closer look at what is socially acceptable or unacceptable about drugs and alcohol and find out some more information.
A Matter of Social Deviation
So, are addicts social deviants? While we may be willing to say “yes” in response (given the fact that drug addicts and alcoholics are breaking social norms), we have to remember that these people come from all walks of life. Some of these victims may be lawyers or doctors who are suffering from health problems and (in the case of opioid medication) unintentionally developed an addiction problem. Also, we have to consider the boundaries between what is considered socially acceptable or not. For example, upper class people who never use drugs would be appalled by a person injecting heroin on their couch, but, in a house where an entire family uses this drug, this behavior would be seen as normal. (This is also where social perspectives on drugs can add to the dangers of this illness).
The Trickle-Down Effect of Society
For example, let’s take a closer look at some activities involving drugs or alcohol that may be considered taboo or socially correct (depending on the setting):
- Binge drinking: regarded as problematic or careless behavior (contrasting with social drinking)
- Underage drinking: considered absolutely illegal and is intolerable
- Painkiller use: socially acceptable if used in the correct amount (in contrast to abuse)
- Medical marijuana: socially acceptable behavior (in certain states, counties, or cities)
Seeking Treatment for Drug Abuse, Alcohol Abuse, or Addiction
Drugs and alcohol are very confusing aspects of life. Some of them are necessary for living a long, healthy life, while others can cut your life short in the blink of an eye. Ultimately, you are the only person who can decide if you are willing to take the plunge into addictive substance use. However, you can also decide to make things right. If you, a friend, or a loved one is suffering from drug abuse, alcohol abuse, or addiction of any sort, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the pain of withdrawal and detox and help you complete a successful and fulfilling rehabilitation. While the road to recovery might not be an easy path, we promise to help you every step of the way.
Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe. If you want to find out more 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 kick your drug or alcohol problems to the curb.
