This article appeared in the Dominion Post Newspaper on May 6, 2001. Return to the listing of articles of May 6, 2001. It means that it doesn't really matter what specific drug a person happens to be abusing at the time, the process of addiction is still in play regardless of whether people switch from one kind of drug to anot her. The attachments people form with drugs or alcohol are not necessary to the specific drug, but more to what they hope to gain through the use of any drug.
People begin to use drugs and alcohol for a reason.
They enjoy the feeling and how it might help with the trials and tribulations of various life experiences. They start to develop a relationship that is not too dissimilar to a friendship. The stronger the bond of friendship between a person and drugs or alcohol, the more dependent the person becomes. Just like the way a person comes to rely on the people who are closest to him or her. The process of addiction is the strengthening of the bond.