I love you, it’s ruining my life - A realization, every victim reaches, somewhere in their abuse journey. The saddest part? It’s too late by then. Drug addiction - two words heavy with stigma, sorrow, and often, silence. A condition that doesn’t discriminate—affecting people from all walks of life, backgrounds, and ages in its full form, drugs support equality. But beyond the headlines and the horror stories lies a deeply human experience: one of struggle, survival, and, ultimately, hope.
The Slippery Slope: How Addiction Begins
Let’s be honest, no one dreams about becoming a drug addict when they grow up. Life takes us all through different, rocky paths and not everyone is strong enough to walk through them on their own. Speaking with a few addicts I have come in contact with in recent years, it became clear that each one of them believed that when high on their stuff, they feel relaxed, less anxious and depressed.
Many of them had been made to “try” by their friends or other family members, as a mere means to have fun. Once turned into twice, then weekly, then daily to now multiple times in a day. In most cases, the victims believe “I can quit whenever I wish to, I am not addicted, I just enjoy it”. The truth is - Drugs alter the brain’s chemistry. They manipulate reward systems, making the body crave more to feel “normal.” Over time, the body develops tolerance, needing higher doses to get the same effect. This isn’t a matter of weak willpower. It's science. It's biology.
In rare cases, it starts off as a prescription. As in the case of Matthew Perry - the beloved Chandler Bing from the comedy series Friends. Either way, the human body isn’t built to sustain with drugs.
One of the biggest barriers to recovery isn’t the substance itself—it’s the shame. Society often views addiction as a moral failing rather than a medical condition. This stigma can isolate individuals, preventing them from seeking help. But addiction is not a character flaw. It's a complex illness—one that deserves treatment and empathy, not judgment.
The Road to Recovery: It’s Never Too Late
When we talk about drug addiction, one thing to be kept in mind is - Recovery isn’t linear. It doesn’t follow a one-size-fits-all formula. But it always begins with one thing: the decision to seek help. And once you take that decision, consider yourself halfway there!
There are many paths to healing, and every journey is hard, but worth the pain:
Detox and Medical Support: Withdrawal can be dangerous without supervision. Detox programs help manage symptoms and begin the healing process safely.
Therapy and Counseling: Addiction often stems from unresolved pain. Therapy helps address the root causes, not just the symptoms.
Rehabilitation Centers: Inpatient or outpatient rehab programs provide structure, support, and tools for lasting recovery.
Loved Ones and Allies: Recovery is easier with support. Family and friends can play a crucial role—by listening, encouraging, and educating themselves.
Resources For Seeking Help (India)
Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan: https://nmba.dosje.gov.in
Vandrevala Foundation Mental Health Helpline: 1860 266 2345 or 1800 233 3330
AASRA (24x7 suicide prevention and mental health helpline): +91-9820466726
Narcotics Anonymous India: https://naindia.org
We should also take into account how recovery isn’t just about quitting drugs—it’s about rebuilding a life. It’s about rediscovering passions, setting goals, learning new coping skills, and forming meaningful connections. It's about waking up and choosing life every single day, even when it's hard. Drug addiction is not the end of a story—it’s a plot twist. With support, treatment, and courage, anyone can rewrite their narrative. If you’re reading this and you’re hurting, remember: you are not your addiction. You are a person worthy of love, healing, and a future.
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