DRUGS DISRUPT LIVES

I feel I must respond to the June 16 letter, "Anti-drug ad campaign fails
because it lies." The writer states, "most people who use drugs manage to
lead normal, productive lives."

But this view is wrong. Because many drugs are extremely addictive, the
user needs more and more of the drug to get the same level of "high."
Getting the drugs therefore becomes the focus of the user's daily
existence, often at the expense of family and job. And drugs are expensive,
so unless the user has unlimited finances, other living expenses like rent
and food can be at risk.

One way for the user to get the needed cash is to sell drugs or turn to
robbery, both of which have their own problems associated with them. Once
the fine line between being a recreational drug user and a drug addict is
crossed, it is extremely difficult for the addict to get clean and stay clean.

I see nothing "normal and productive" about the entire process.

Cindy Kozak

New Day Coaching Inc.

Shelby Township