While the Weeknd appears to have his recreational use under control (for now), fact of the matter is, addiction — a chronic disease characterized by compulsive drug use, despite harmful consequences — is a devastating reality millions of Americans face each day. In fact, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “Abuse of tobacco, alcohol, and illicit drugs is costly to our Nation, exacting more than $700 billion annually in costs related to crime, lost work productivity and health care.”
To make matters worse, much like Tesfaye, who began using as a teen, “90% of those with an addiction began drinking, smoking or using illicit drugs before the age of 18,” the Addiction Center reports. Although most people don’t get the treatment they need, the signs of addiction are clear.
If you exhibit the three C’s of addiction: loss of control over the amount and frequency of use, craving and compulsive using, continued use in the face of adverse consequences, there is no better time than now to get help.
If you feel that you or a loved one is suffering with addiction of any sort, get immediate help here.