“Conversation Starter Lesson Series: Upper-Intermediate” is designed for intermediate-level ESL learners who want to improve their fluency and confidence in speaking English.
Each lesson includes an engaging reading material with audio, vocabulary and expressions, comprehension questions, and discussion questions to be used for one to one class, group class, or self-study for both online and offline classes.
Unit 5: Society and Environment
Story 02: Addiction and Substance Abuse: Impact on Individuals and Society
Key Lesson Vocabulary & Expressions: Look over and review before proceeding.
- Alters
- Compulsive
- Mitigating
- Early intervention
- Range of
- Impact of
- Criminal justice expenses
- Homelessness
- Recovery
- Well-being
Read or Listen to the following passage:
Addiction and substance abuse are complex and chronic conditions that affect millions of people around the world. Substance abuse refers to the use of drugs or alcohol in a way that negatively impacts a person’s physical, emotional, and social health. Addiction, on the other hand, is a chronic disease that alters the brain’s reward system, leading to compulsive drug-seeking behavior despite negative consequences.
Substance abuse and addiction have a devastating impact on individuals and society. They can lead to a range of physical and mental health problems, including liver disease, heart disease, depression, and anxiety. Substance abuse can also negatively impact relationships, work performance, and financial stability, often leading to legal and social consequences.
The impact of substance abuse and addiction is not limited to the individual. Society as a whole is affected by the costs associated with substance abuse, including healthcare costs, lost productivity, and criminal justice expenses. Substance abuse also contributes to higher rates of poverty, homelessness, and violence.
Prevention and treatment of addiction and substance abuse are crucial for mitigating their impact. Prevention efforts can include education about the risks associated with drug use, early intervention, and access to mental health services. Treatment options include medication-assisted treatment, behavioral therapy, and support groups.
Despite the devastating impact of addiction and substance abuse, there is hope for recovery. With the right support, individuals can overcome addiction and improve their physical and mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. It is important for individuals and society as a whole to recognize the seriousness of addiction and substance abuse and work together to prevent and treat these conditions.
Comprehension Questions:
- What is substance abuse, and how does it differ from addiction?
- What are some physical and mental health problems associated with substance abuse and addiction?
- How does substance abuse impact society as a whole?
- What are some prevention efforts for addiction and substance abuse?
- Is recovery from addiction and substance abuse possible?
Conversations Starters:
- What are you addicted to?
- Are all addictions bad?
- Do you know anyone who is battling addiction or substance abuse?
- Is drug-use a problem in your country?
- How can productivity be impacted by addiction, and what strategies can be employed to support individuals in the workplace who are in recovery?
- What are the costs associated with criminal justice expenses related to substance abuse, and how can these funds be redirected towards more effective prevention and treatment strategies?
- How can personal experiences with addiction shape attitudes towards drug use and substance abuse in a country, and what role does this play in policy-making?
- How can recovery programs be tailored to meet the specific needs of individuals from diverse backgrounds, and what barriers exist to achieving this goal?
- In what ways can a country promote overall well-being and resilience among individuals struggling with addiction, and what resources are needed to support this effort?
- How can the stigma associated with addiction and substance abuse be addressed in a country, and what role can public education and awareness campaigns play in this process?
