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The pharmacological effects of hard drugs lead to a change in personality and pursuit of a 

 lifestyle which is dominated by the drug. Obtaining drugs and getting 'high" supplant all other 

 values. Family responsibilities are shirked, employment becomes unpredictable, morality is eroded, 

 illegal activity is often resorted to in order to obtain the hard drug, and marital discord is usually 

 evident. Abuse and the emotional scarring which results can last for generations. On psychological 

 tests the personality configuration of a hard drug addict is distinguishable from that of other patient 

 groups. 



Cigarette smokers do not suffer these psychological and sociological impairments. They are 

 not behaviorally dominated by a drug-induced state. They can drive automobiles, fly airplanes, drive 

 heavy machinery and even be members of Congress without mental impairment. In my experience, 

 cigarette smokers are not different from the general run of normal, honest citizens. Nicotine does 

 not govern their actions or decisions. Smokers can and do abstain for long periods without untoward 

 effects if external circumstances dictate it (religious observances, hospitalization, work place, 

 airplanes). 



For the hard drug user following detoxification and stabilization, a new lifestyle must be 

 established. The addict must rebuild nearly every aspect of his or her life, and rectify the emotional 

 (and physical) damage to loved ones and family. He must learn to face life without being constantly 

 intoxicated and must learn new values to supplant drug seeking. Often successful abstinence involves 

 leaving behind old friends and haunts and establishing enduring relationships in support groups 

 modeled on Alcoholics Anonymous. For many, it will be a life-long undertaking requiring ongoing 

 reinforcement. 



