UNDERSTANDING THE EFFECT OF DRUG USER IN FAMILIES IN BARANGAY BAGBAG NOVALICHES QUEZON CITY

Abstract

Drug addiction is not merely a personal struggle for the individual involved; it has profound and far-reaching consequences for their family, particularly in communities like Barangay Bag-bag, Novaliches, Quezon City. The stereotypical image of a drug addict often includes a family silently suffering in the background—grappling with emotional distress, financial hardship, and social stigma. Many families endure strained relationships, the fear of losing a loved one, and the burden of managing household needs when addiction drains resources and stability. This research aims to explore the lived experiences of these families, shedding light on the real and human stories behind the statistics. Specifically, it seeks to understand how drug use affects family life in terms of altered relationships, disrupted daily routines, and the mental and emotional toll on each family member. By capturing these narratives and examining the broader social and economic pressures at play, the study aspires to illustrate the full impact of drug addiction on families and to identify ways to provide more effective and compassionate support to those most affected. This study employed a descriptive research design and utilized a purposive sampling method. The respondents were categorized into three groups: families with a member who is a drug user, families without a drug user, and Barangay Tanods. A total of fifty participants were involved in the study. Data were collected through a structured survey questionnaire designed to gather insights into the impact of drug use on family life and community perspectives. The results of the research present the data collected and analyzed, offering valuable insights derived from participants’ responses. These findings, combined with the researchers’ interpretations, contribute to a deeper understanding of the study’s objectives. The analysis aims to provide clear and meaningful conclusions regarding the impact of drug use on families and the broader community, fulfilling the goal of shedding light on the real-life implications of substance abuse in Barangay Bag-bag. The findings suggest that the community consists largely of married and stable households, with only a minimal number of cases involving separation or widowhood. In collaboration with families and local officials, the community offers substantial support to individuals affected by drug addiction through law enforcement, rehabilitation programs, and community-based initiatives. Addressing the ongoing challenges requires coordinated intervention programs, accessible support services, and economic opportunities that empower families to remain resilient. Recommended strategies include fostering open and honest family discussions about drug use, promoting healthy recreational activities, encouraging positive role modeling for stress management and problem-solving, and establishing clear family rules regarding substance use.