Will the floundering economy have any effect on illegal drug use? The short answer is yes. This doesn’t mean that addicts will all of a sudden stop using drugs. The user that would sometimes drink in bars or clubs will probably have to take their addiction home to save a few bucks. Alcohol and drugs are often used to escape problems and feelings. As the Economy worsens those that abuse drugs and feel the pressure will want to hold on to their addiction to avoid the reality of difficult times. With less income the nuisance of paying bills will take a back seat to paying their drug/alcohol expenses.

Illegal drug abuse and the economy will have little negative effect on the traffickers. Actually monies used to fight the illegal drug trade will probably be used elsewhere and traffickers may thrive during difficult times. They may have to lower their prices, much the same as the Oil Barons, but they will not slow down. Remember it was during the Great Depression that prohibition was repealed and our country saw a sharp rise in alcoholism.

When our government tightens its economic belt the casualties are very often those programs that deal with drug/alcohol problems. Drug Rehab Centers that are funded by the county and state will have to greatly reduce staff just to keep their doors open. Less work means fewer people with insurance that can afford private Addiction Treatment Centers. A weaker economy does not mean less illegal drug use it just means fewer people will be able to find the help they need to quit those drugs.