Drug abuse is a rampant problem in the United States. Drugs can be abused in many different ways by people from all walks of life. Most of us have been affected by drug abuse directly or indirectly. Drug addicts harm themselves, as well as their families and communities. Drug abuse has a huge impact on our society on many levels. The cost of drug abuse on our society is astronomical, not only financially but also personally, emotionally, socially and professionally. Drug abuse is the abuse or overdose of any medication or drug, including alcohol. Many people abuse medications to get through everyday life. “While it is true that for most people the initial decision to take drugs is voluntary, over time changes in the brain caused by repeated drug abuse can affect a person's control and ability to make good decisions, and at the same time at the same time send intense urges take drugs (Shannon 246).” Many people who abuse drugs will develop a chronic condition called addiction. Once addicted, it is difficult for the addict to stop abusing drugs. The cost of drug and alcohol recovery services can be high, not only for the recovering addict and their families, but also for the company that pays for the services through government agencies. Drug addicts who relapse from their illness or those who are not interested in recovery cost society through involvement in crime, neglect, abuse and even death. The drugs abused are classified into nine different categories: cocaine, hallucinogens, herion, inhalants, marijuana, painkillers. , sedatives, stimulants and tranquilizers. These drugs range from illegal, over-the-counter to prescription. “In 2007, approximately 19.9 million Americans ages 12 and older… halfway… from addiction treatment, overdose medical costs, drug-related injuries and complications, time lost from work and social assistance programs (Grohsman). The cost of drug abuse on society applies to all Americans. Whether you are an addict, a family member, a friend, a colleague, a drug manufacturer, or a law enforcement officer, we have all been affected by drug abuse. Works CitedAbbot, Ann. “Health Challenges Created by Substance Abuse: The Whole Is Far Greater than the Sum of its Parts” Health & Social Work 27.3 (2002): 162, 4. MasterFile Premier. Network. November 19, 2011.Brennfleck Shannon, Joyce, ed. SOURCE on drug abuse. Omnigraphics, Inc.,2010. Print.Grohsman, B. “Drug Addiction and Society.” Treatment Centers.net May 23, 2011. Web. November 19, 2011. “Greatness: Drug Abuse Is Expensive.” National Institute on Drug Abuse.nd Web. November 19. 2011