Reflection On Drug Abuse

In the following essay I will examine and critically reflect on policies, strategies and people centred services in relation to drug abuse and in particular Legal Highs. I will also ascertain the impact on individuals in relation to social exclusion, gender , diversity and integration. I will also demonstrate relevant theory to the addiction and apply to the integration of public services.

The use of drugs in society has been extensive as far back as 6000B.C when farming was introduced and the fermentation of alcohol was discovered. In nineteenth century Britain narcotics such as Opiates were passed freely between countries and were used frequently in British society including the Royal household at that time. These substances were readily

Although they were powerful psychoactive substances, they were not thought to pose a major problem on society or the health of people who tried them therefore were not included in Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. In 2004 a new form of" Magic Mushrooms" appeared on the market. People thought that because they were readily available and legal they were safe to consume however they produced extremely strong mind altering effects. Subsequently they were banned but this drug made clear there were gaps in the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. (Stewart & the Angelus Foundation,

The concept of diversity is acceptance however people who use drugs and their families often feel isolated and not accepted within society. Stigma can prevent people with drug problems recognising that they have a problem and subsequently asking for help. For some admitting they have a problem would mean them being labelled as a "junkie" and again being ostracised. Individuals who are experiencing addictions in general experience feelings of shame and insignificance within society and it has been shown that these feelings were also experienced by family members and were often too ashamed to seek