How Negative Attention Can Influence Drug Use

How Negative Attention Can Influence Drug UseWhen California drug addicts talk to their loved ones about their struggles, they may not receive compassion or understanding, but rather anger, resentment and hostility. Though this negative attention is meant to discourage the addict from using, it can drive her deeper into an addictive lifestyle. California drug addicts may continue using despite disapproval of friends and family. In fact, this negative attention can cause the addict to use more.

The Effects of Negative Attention on Drug Addiction

Not only can negative attention deepen an addiction, but it can be the building blocks for addiction to begin. For example, though there is no typical cause of addiction some addicts use drugs to cover up painful emotional wounds. If a California resident feels ignored or unloved by his parents or close family members, he may act out. These individuals often try to gain their loved one’s attention by doing something that they know their family would not approve of (like drug abuse). When the user gets the negative attention that he desires he pushes back against his family by using drugs more often. Unfortunately, the longer an addict abuses drugs, the less able he is to control his urges and the more likely he is to develop an addiction. What started out as a ploy for attention can turn into a life-altering mistake.

In the same vein, California teenagers and young adults often use drugs to rebel against the social norms of their society and their families. Instead of cooperating with the rules laid down by their community, these people seek out a counter culture, which is a group that defies the established conventions. For instance, if society claims that drug abuse is bad, individuals seeking to establish a counter culture will openly abuse various drugs. The negative attention that these individuals receive from members of normal society only affirms their decisions and strengthens their resolve to continue using drugs.

The Benefits of Hiring an Interventionist

If you are the parent or loved one of a California drug addict, your reaction to drug use matters quite a bit. If you cannot discuss your loved one’s drug abuse calmly and rationally, consider hiring an interventionist. With the help of an interventionist or addiction counselor, you can ensure that your loved one can communicate his struggles. The counselor can mediate the discussion and keep both sides from blaming or shouting at the other. Instead of treating your family member with anger and hostility, let your interventionist be sure that your point is heard.

Ending Addiction for California Residents

If you are a drug addict in California, call our toll-free helpline. We are available 24 hours a day to help you start your road to recovery. You deserve a life that is not filled with negative attention. Call us today and let us help you create a life that attracts positive attention.

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