Social Effects of Drug Abuse

Many people wonder about the social effects of drug abuse. Drug abuse erodes the social life of the addict, tearing apart his family, friendships and professional relationships. Without intervention, the drug addict can wind up alone, with the drug being his only "friend." Below are some of the social effects of drug abuse.

Isolation

• Isolation is the most common social effect of drug abuse. The drug abuser eventually maintains a connection only with his drug of choice.

Financial

• Depending upon the drug of choice, the financial strain can be devastating. Buying drugs becomes more important to the drug addict than daily responsibilities.

Relationships

• Close connections to the drug abuser are affected. Relationships become dysfunctional, as the co-dependent recognizes the effects of the drugs.

Family

• Social effects on the family can be felt long after the addiction. The family can be dissolved, children can develop emotional issues and trust can be shattered.

Professional Life

• Drug abuse can lead to unexplained absences, depleted sick days and eventually job loss. The severity of the drug abuse will determine the time line.