Who uses drugs and why

In Britain caffeine, nicotine, alcohol and barbiturates are all legal drugs. They are similar to illegal ones in that, sooner or later, they can affect you so that you find yourself depending on a regular supply of them. The extent of dependence differs according to the person and the drug, but most people find it harder to give up even cigarettes or tea, apples or cheese. This is because most of us smoke, have a coffee or drink either as a way of calming ourselves down and relieving tension, finding extra energy. These drugs become associated with the power to relieve certain feelings and a habit is formed.

Stronger drugs such as opiates and cocaine - can be habit-forming in just the same way. The drug-taker comes to rely on the effect of the drug to produce a sensation of well-being and this reliance increases, until eventually dependence on a continual supply of the drug is established and an addictive habit is formed.

People who are addicted to drugs can be of any age and walk of life. Then reasons for taking drugs are as varied as the environments in which they live. In some cases, addiction will be life-long; in others, a temporary phase which can be broken out of.