Answer:

When you think of drug abuse, what do you see? For many, the picture conjured in our minds is an individual drug user – odds are it’s a friend, family member, or co-worker. Sometimes, it’s even ourselves.

It’s normal to think of addiction as a personal illness; one that does damage to the user and their immediate family. Addiction affects much more than this as it puts a huge strain on several aspects of society; from healthcare to employment to prisons and jails. Drug abuse is one of the connecting fibers that join Americans, and one we can’t hide from.

Explanation:

Many individuals who abuse drugs do not end up homeless and destitute. Some do, but frequently, there is a family that carries the emotional and economic burden of the person who abuses drugs.

As FAMILIES do whatever is in their power to continue living a healthy life, economic issues are constant in families wracked by addiction. Sometimes, money that was supposed to go to rent or food is SPENT on drugs, leading to food insecurity and higher rates of homelessness.

There are many other ADVERSE effects of drug abuse on families:

Family CONFLICT that might INCLUDE physical and/or mental abuse and neglect

Loss of employment and income

Increased likelihood of emotional and mental disorders (like anxiety and depression) among family members

Family separations and divorces, and even the removal of children from homes