We dont think...
As an addict speaking from my experience. I found that it starts by choice. We choose to use for various reasons. My reason was to cope with my PTSD. Using numbed those thoughts and helped me sleep.
As an addict the choice then becomes a progressive disease.
I used to say "how is it a disease when people choose that life?". I was one of those.
Well let me explain.
Addiction is a disease because it progresses. Slowly it gets worse and spreads, you can say. It spreads within you consuming you.
We say "I would never do that" but guess what? Eventually you will get there. Eventually you will start getting behind on bills. Eventually you will start pawning or selling your stuff. You will progress to stealing and eventually selling yourself.
I haven't gotten that far "yet" because I won't say I never will. I am in recovery but that doesn't mean I can't fall and fall harder than I did before.
I am an addict and I will always be an addict.
Anyways I am rambling.
This post is for those who say stuff like "Think about your children" or "I would never get that bad".
From my experience, my addiction came first. I knew the consequences but my addiction had a hold of me. It consumed me. I knew what I was doing wasn't right but the only thing on my mind was using.
It hurts to see addicts and their families because I know it hurts them too. They know what they are doing and believe me they wish they could quit too but they have yet to get to their breaking point.
Once they reach that point and get help then things will get better. But like they say all addiction gets us is institutions, jail or death. The lucky ones get the first two.
Please have empathy for those in active addiction. Let them know they can get help. Let them know you are there. That is all that can be done.