Addiction vs Socioeconomic Status
Poverty and Drug Abuse
There is a common misconception that one’s socioeconomic status increases the likelihood of being addicted to drugs, but this is simply not true. Although there seems to be a correlation between addiction and poverty, it isn’t cause and effect, but rather a mixture of external factors such as abuse, genetics, and mental health. This is isn’t to say that people from all walks of life can’t experience problems with their drug use, regardless of age, or background. Anyone can fall into the trap of addiction, it’s just that some are more susceptible than others.
In short, it’s not poverty that causes higher rates of addiction in low-income neighborhoods, but a mixture of environmental and genetic factors. The reason for the increased percentage of drug abusers in these neighborhoods is because underprivileged communities are simply more likely to experience these factors as a result of lesser education, financial debt, etc.
Furthermore, concepts such as power and change also come into play in this problem. Power is essential because the cycle of factors takes away power from its victims. By keeping them trapped, unable to escape, it takes away their voices.
Moreover, often times the never-ending circle of abuse creates lasting impacts that are hard to shake off. Change is significant because understanding how to break this repetitive cycle is the first step towards eradicating it.
The drawing (left) is meant to represent how victims of addiction are trapped in a cycle of abuse, whether it’s drug abuse or domestic. They are frustrated and the situation often feels inescapable, with no end in sight, hence, the on-going “spiral” of screams. Additionally, the only color in the sketch is grey, which is a neutral color, but has negative connotations too, especially when it comes to depression and loss.