Drug Dependence: Who is at Fault?

Drug dependence. Drug abuser. Drug addict. These terms all reflect a negative connotation of a self-inflicted condition and are highly associated with stigma and discrimination. But have you ever wondered about the story behind each patient? Did they voluntarily choose to take these drugs of dependence? Or do their circumstances deserve some empathy? There are many potential reasons or causes behind the development of drug dependency or substance misuse disorder. However, in truth, it is difficult to pinpoint a singular root or perpetrator. Instead, the focus should be on reducing the effects of stigmatisation while channeling our energy into determining how best to aid these individuals, whether this be through exercising greater caution when prescribing, by providing patients with counselling or via treatment.