Substance abuse is a constant source of concern in the United States and around the world. In the last few years there has been a shift in the conversation about substance abuse. It has gone from being seen as a vice connected to a lack of willpower or low moral character and is now being seen as a disease that must be treated as such. This means that less emphasis is being placed on the criminalization of substance abuse and more emphasis is being placed on helping individuals who are battling substance abuse get their life back on track. This is done through training and rehabilitation.
Technology has played a role in making substance abuse recovery possible. Online substance abuse courses have been beneficial for many individuals battling with the coping skills needed to successfully address substance abuse.
Since the late 90’s, the link between substance abuse and mental illness has become clearly identified. Prior to that time, if an individual had a problem with substance abuse and they were dealing with a mental health challenge, they were told to first correct the substance abuse and then may be in line for mental health treatment. Codependency treatment is the norm nowadays. It is understood that mental health treatment and the treatment for substance abuse must happen simultaneously if the individual is going to have long-term results.
As substance abuse becomes more prominent in different communities, these communities are taking steps to help their fellow man. This increased awareness about the challenges those battling with substance abuse face and a stronger determination on the part of governmental agencies, religious institutions, and society as a whole to combat substance abuse has produced very positive results.
Changes in the way people view substance abuse are likely connected to changes that have been seen in laws in the United States and other countries regarding what substances are considered illegal and which substances are considered to be legal. The goal is that continued progress will be made and individuals battling with substance abuse will get the help they need so that they can live a happy and successful life.
