Consequences of Low Self-Esteen & Substance Abuse

According to an article by Carole Bennett, "Low self-esteem describes a substandard evaluation or disappointing appraisal of ones' own self worth." It is basically a low opinion of yourself. Our self-esteem starts to form at an early age and can be affected positively or negatively by parents, family, friends, teachers, religion, culture and society. Substance abuse is one consequence of low self esteem because it is an escape. Those with low self esteem are at a higher risk of substance abuse than those with normal self esteem. Some think so low of themselves that they feel they have nothing to lose by trying drugs. There are additional consequences of low self esteem and substance abuse.

Depression and Mental Health

• Both low self esteem and substance abuse often lead to depression. According to the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, "Substance-abusing youth are at higher risk than nonusers for mental health problems, including depression, conduct problems, personality disorders, suicidal thoughts, attempted suicide, and suicide." Sometimes those with low self esteem may try to self-medicate their depression with drugs, leading to substance abuse.

Physical Health

• Those dealing with substance abuse are at a high risk for developing a physical addiction. "Disproportionate numbers of youth involved with alcohol and other drugs face an increased risk of death through suicide, homicide, accident, and illness," according to the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. Some substance abusers may put themselves in situations which put them at risk for contracting HIV or AIDS. Certain substances radically change a person's behavior, putting them at risk for impulsive and dangerous behavior.

Academics

• Children, teenagers and young adults who are suffering from low self esteem and/or substance abuse may find themselves with declining grades, absenteeism and lack of interest in school activities. There is also an increased potential for dropping out of school.

Family Problems

• Substance abuse in one family also affects the rest of the family. It can be both emotionally and financially draining for a family to deal with a family member with a substance abuse problem.

Delinquency

• Those who abuse drugs often disengage themselves from the community. Delinquent behavior and substance abuse are strongly correlated. People associate substance abuse with crime - often violent - which can send fear and uneasiness through a community. Those with low self esteem - and especially adolescent substance abusers - are more prone to join a gang, or get involved in drug trafficking or prostitution.