A Glimpse at Addiction in the Media

Drug Addiction has always ridden under the spotlight throughout the media and entertainment, with the exception of detectives touching on the topic in a cop drama. The last few years have brought a bright light to the destruction of drugs and the disease of addiction. T.V. shows like Intervention have displayed the true-life stories of everyday people that struggle with drugs and alcohol, and don't know how to help themselves. The hour long episodes are targeted at drug use, and the break down that it causes the user and their families. “Intervention™ raises awareness about the alternatives and treatment options available to those who suffer from an alcohol or drug addiction, and gives hope to families who have nowhere left to turn.” (www.aetv.com/intervention) On the other hand society also views and listens to the gossip that surround celebrities and their dirty laundry. Luckily when they screw up and get caught using drugs the instant apology is to check themselves into rehab. Society needs to understand the difference between the two. The rock bottom of a drug addict is usually not he same as Lohan, or Spears checking into the lavish rehabilitation centers in California. Celebrities most likely didn't have to steal to get their fix, or cut down anything in their path to find drugs because they were blinded by addiction. “Each week THE CLEANER follows Benjamin Bratt as William Banks, a recovering addict who helps others get clean by any means necessary as he struggles to maintain his own rocky personal life.” (http://www.aetv.com/the-cleaner/) Shows like The Cleaner are proof that Intervention has influenced people in the American society. It may be entertainment, but it might be able to save a life. If more people are aware of the options that are open to them they could help themselves or friends and family that struggle with the sickness of addiction.