by Trinette Barnes
Alcohol, tobacco, and other drug abuse rates are high among people with disabilities, and there are many reasons why. Most people with disabilities discover that life can be a struggle. If you are disabled, you are much more likely to feel higher levels of isolation and lack of social acceptance. It is more likely you will have difficulty finding and keeping a job. In addition, many disabled people do not have a positive self-identity.
These are issues that I have faced as a visually impaired person myself. However, I have found many ways to cope positively with the overwhelming challenges that come with my disability. For example, I keep busy by joining clubs and organizations, such as the California Poetry Society and church choir. Also, I take classes that interest me and keep my mind and body active. I have hobbies that enable me to express my feelings, such as poetry writing and martial arts. Because of these activities I do not have to turn to alcohol and other drugs for entertainment. In addition, I spend time with friends who don’t abuse alcohol, tobacco or other drugs. And I try to deal with the ramifications of my disability by talking to close friends, relatives or counselors about my frustrations and my accomplishments.
The most rewarding way I cope is through my job as a health educator at Community Service Programs-Project Positive Action Towards Health, in Orange County, Calif. I help other people with and without disabilities stay free of alcohol, tobacco, and other drug abuse. The fact that I make a difference in people’s lives gives me a sense of accomplishment. Because of my job, I am always meeting people who are involved in a substance-abuse-free lifestyle, which helps me maintain my own substance-free path.
If you struggle with issues of substance abuse, my advice is to find ways to stay alcohol-, drug- and tobacco-free by staying connected to those around you. Don’t be afraid to talk about your struggles with friends or the people you trust, and find positive alcohol-, tobacco- and other drug-free activities to occupy your time. These steps can put you on the path to a healthy and happier life.