Drug abuse is an endemic problem in the United States. Drugs can be used in different ways by people from all walks of life. Most of us have been affected by drug addiction, directly or indirectly. Drug addicts harm themselves, their families and communities. Drug abuse has enormous consequences on our society on many levels. The cost of drug abuse to our society is astronomical, not only financially but also personally, emotionally, socially and professionally. Drug abuse is the abuse or overdose of any medication or drug, including alcohol. Many people abuse drugs to cope with daily life. “While it is true that for most people the initial decision to take drugs is voluntary, over time changes in the brain caused by repeated drug abuse can affect control and ability to 'a person to make wise decisions, and at the same time send intense impulses. take drugs (Shannon 246).” Many people who abuse drugs will develop a chronic illness called addiction. Once addicted, it is difficult for the addict to stop abusing. The cost of drug and alcohol rehab services can be high, not only for the recovering addict and their families, but also for the society that pays for the services through government agencies. Drug addicts who relapse or those who are unwilling to recover cost society dearly through involvement in crime, neglect, abuse, and even death. Drugs of abuse are classified into nine different categories: cocaine, hallucinogens, herion, inhalants, marijuana, painkillers. , sedatives, stimulants and tranquilizers. These medications range from illegal over-the-counter medications to prescription medications. "In 2007, approximately 19.9 million Americans aged 12 or older...... middle of paper ...... drug treatment, medical costs due to overdoses, injuries and drug-related complications drugs, time lost from work and welfare programs (Grohsman) The cost of drug abuse to society applies to all Americans Whether you are an addict, a family member, a friend, a co-worker. , a drug manufacturer or drug enforcement agent, we have all been affected by drug abuse Works Cited Abbot, Ann “Healthcare Challenges Created by Drug Addiction: It's Definitely More. greater than the sum of its parts” Health & Social Work 27.3 (2002): 162, 4. MasterFile Premier Internet. November 19, 2011. Brennfleck Shannon, Joyce, ed. SOURCE BOOK on Drug Abuse. , 2010. Print. Grohsman, B. “Drug Addiction and Society.” Treatment Centers.net May 23, 2011. Web. November 19, 2011. “Magnitude: Drug Abuse is Expensive.” National Institute on Drug Abuse. and Web. November 19. 2011