Why do people choose to use illegal drugs when they are expensive and dangerous?

Why do people choose to use illegal drugs when they are expensive and dangerous?

It is common knowledge that illegal drugs like cocaine, heroin and methamphetamines are extremely expensive, yet so many people fall prey to this addiction even if they cannot afford to. From a cost benefit perspective drug addicts feel that the benefit of getting high is more than the cost. Many times the drugs become the most important purchase, and they find themselves in debt and are forced to start selling their belongings just to make ends meet.

Drug addicts also choose the benefit of getting high over good health. They do not consider the consequences of later health problems or even death when they decide to use drugs. Drug use is very dangerous and harmful on the brain, heart, and many other organs of the body. There is also an increased risk of contracting a disease like Hepatitis B or HIV/Aids from sharing needles and unsafe behavior practices.

Trying to make a drug addict understand the affects of their behaviors is extremely difficult and rehabilitation services are almost always needed. Rehabilitation services are also very expensive and are also not thought of as possible consequences when first deciding to take the drugs. It is hard to imagine why some people become drug addicts when it seems like common sense to stay away from drugs. Is education enough to prevent drug use, or will people always let their curiosity lead them down a dangerous path that they know they should not be on. Is the cost of the consequences less than the high? The answer is no.