The Glamorization of Cocaine in Boston

Cocaine is the most abused stimulant in America. Cocaine has also recently become the drug most frequently involved in emergency room visits. Powdered cocaine has developed an aura of glamour in the United States due to media exposure and the misconception that the recreational use of the drug is harmless.  Celebrities like Lady Gaga, Charlie Sheen, and Lindsay Lohan have all played a key role in publicizing and glamorizing the use of the drug. Screenplays like Scarface and Boogie Nights have also contributed to the attraction of cocaine.

The movie Blow, in particular, has a powerful affect on the perception of cocaine from today’s youth, particularly in Boston. The setting of the movie begins in Boston and the plot progressively glamorizes the recreational use of cocaine.  What the misguided youth is unaware of is that cocaine can lead to addiction and to sudden death from cardiovascular failure. In addition to bringing the potential for heart failure, cocaine abuse can lead to criminal prosecution, financial problems and the destruction of personal relationships.  The bottom line is that cocaine abuse is anything but glamorous. Cocaine is highly addictive, and also prominent and easily accessible in communities like Boston. In 2007, a pizza parlor in Boston actually doubled as a carry-out cocaine sales operation just blocks from the TD Banknorth Garden where the Boston Celtics play. The fact of the matter is that cocaine addiction can ruin lives and treatment for addiction should be taken seriously. Seabrook is an internationally recognized private and exclusive inpatient drug rehab and alcoholism detox treatment center, located in rural Bridgeton, New Jersey—roughly a 6 hour drive south of Boston, or about an hour flight. Seabrook offers cocaine addiction treatment options that have been shown to be effective for decreasing cocaine use and preventing relapse. Cocaine use in the Boston area is rampant and members of the Boston community should seriously consider the treatment programs that Seabrook offers.