Ways Addicts Fund Their Drug Addictions

Individuals who are addicted to drugs or alcohol will often resort to various means to be able to fund their addictions. These actions are typically driven by the need to feed their addiction and often do not represent responsible or legal behavior by which they would usually conduct themselves, however, when addiction takes control, addicts feel the need to obtain substances to avoid drug withdrawals.

This article will go over some of the different methods by which those who are addicted to drugs or alcohol will use to be able to fund their substance use.

Ways Addicts Fund Their Addiction

Below are some of the common ways addicts will try to fund their drug or alcohol use:

1. Savings and Personal Finances: Initially, individuals may use their savings or personal funds to buy drugs. Over time, these resources may become depleted.
2. Borrowing from Friends and Family: Addicts may borrow money from friends or family members, often under false pretenses or by manipulating their loved ones.
3. Employment Income: Some individuals may use their regular income from employment to purchase drugs. This can lead to job instability and financial problems.
4. Selling Personal Belongings: Addicts may sell personal belongings such as electronics, jewelry, or even their own prescription medications to obtain money for drugs.
5. Engaging in Criminal Activity: To fund their addiction, some individuals turn to criminal activities, such as theft, shoplifting, burglary, or selling drugs themselves.
6. Prostitution or Sex Work: In desperate situations, some individuals may engage in sex work to finance their addiction.
7. Drug Dealing: Some addicts may become involved in drug dealing to maintain their own supply and make money from selling drugs to others.
8. Loan Sharks and High-Interest Loans: Addicts may turn to loan sharks or high-interest payday loans, which can lead to even greater financial difficulties due to exorbitant interest rates.
9. Identity Theft and Fraud: In extreme cases, addicts may resort to identity theft or fraud to obtain money or goods they can sell or trade for drugs.
10. Government Assistance Programs: Some individuals may misuse government assistance programs or welfare checks to obtain money for drugs.
11. Panhandling: Addicts may resort to begging or panhandling to collect money from strangers on the streets.
12. Stealing Medications: Some individuals may steal prescription medications from friends or family members to self-medicate or sell them.

It’s important to recognize that addiction is a complex and destructive cycle that can lead individuals to engage in behaviors they would not typically consider. These actions often result in severe legal, financial, and personal consequences, including strained relationships, job loss, criminal charges, and health problems.

Getting Help for Addiction

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, it’s crucial to seek help from medical professionals, addiction specialists, or support groups to break the cycle of addiction and find healthier ways to cope with life’s challenges. Addiction is treatable, and recovery is possible with the right support and treatment.

American Addiction Centers (AAC) has treatment centers throughout the US, treating a wide range of substance addictions and mental health disorders. Contact our admissions navigators who can help you find a treatment program which is best suited to your needs, to allow you to begin your journey toward sobriety.