Substance abuse disorders are common in our society. It is a disorder that each of us will most likely experience through a family member, friend or ourselves. I felt very drawn to this topic because I have family with a history of drug addiction and I have battled the demon myself. It wasn't until I struggled with my own addiction that I became more tolerable and understanding of those suffering from substance use disorder. Addiction is not something anyone wants to have; it is a disorder that takes control of a person's life. It is a beast that tears a person apart; from their being to the lives of their loved ones. This disorder is in no way biased; rich or poor, male or female, employed or unemployed, young or old, and of every race or ethnicity” (E Not Alone). The first abuse of alcohol in the United States dates back to when our ancestors settled the 13 colonies. Whiskey was popularly used and early developing towns in these original colonies began wanting to rid their towns of "town drunks". Laws would be introduced in these colonies to put drunk residents in jail, thus saving the city from the embarrassment of one of its residents. Opium was introduced to America when Chinese immigrants came to California in the 1850s to work in the gold mines and on the railroads (DEA Museum). It didn't take long for Americans to become addicted to opium. Opium dens became common in communities and women and youth began to enjoy the faraway land of euphoria that opium provided. Due to the growing popularity and concern about the effects of this drug on the population, the government attempted to impose taxes. "Opium was initially taxed, then allowed, then discouraged and finally made illegal for most of us...... middle of paper ...... our entire lives. Works Cited"" Drugs, Brains and Behavior - The Science of Addiction" - Drug Abuse and Addiction." Internet. Home | Internet Text. "Illegal Drugs in America: A Modern History". DEA Museum and Visitor Center Internet. December 14, 2010.State, By. Treatment Centers." Addiction Treatment | Medicine. Internet. December 14, 2010. “Substance Abuse and Mental Health: Overcoming Alcohol and Drug Addiction While Coping with Depression or Anxiety.” Helpguide.org: Understanding, Preventing and Solving Life's Challenges Internet. “What is Addiction” ENotAlone: ​​Relationship, Personal Growth, Advice and Health Articles Internet. “Withdrawal Symptoms Related to Drug and Alcohol Addiction: Physical and Emotional” Addictions and Recovery.org - Relapse Prevention and Coping Skills.. 2010