The World Cup games in Brazil have brought the country much publicity and notoriety as they play host to one of the most sought after sports events in the world. The country has been expected to make more than $45 billion dollars and receive more than 6 million tourists from around the world. Brazil, known for its beautiful coastlines and carnival festivities is certainly not alone in battling the epidemic of addiction. The National Institute on Drug Abuse, reports that, “In 2012, an estimated 23.9 million Americans aged 12 or older had used an illicit drug or abused a psychotherapeutic medication in the past month.”
According to an interview with 4 News in the United Kingdom, the country of Brazil has a high amount of children working in the sex trade. These children are often homeless at a young age and battling addictions to inhalants, crack cocaine, and marijuana.
For many, they enter the sex trade to help support their addictions. One woman, who began in the sex trade as a child said, “the children go with the men because they are high on drugs or need more money to buy the next drugs.”
The epidemic with the country’s children is one that still has yet to be recognized by the Brazilian government but efforts to combat the exploitation of children and addiction are made through other organizations. These organizations work with the goal of mobilizing governments into action against this epidemic.
The disease of addiction can affect anyone, anywhere, and does not discriminate. New Directions for Women hopes to bring light, and awareness to the disease of addiction and how it affects persons living all around the world.
New Directions for Women is a treatment facility located in California that offers help to women, pregnant women, and women with children. Founded in 1977, our courageous and visionary founders asked for the help of the Newport Beach Junior League members to fulfill their vision of a tranquil home-like facility that would treat women with dignity, and respect. Our caring admissions counselors are available 24/7 to take your call and answer any questions you may have on getting help. Reach us by phone at 800-93-WOMEN. We can help. Stay in the loop with New Directions for Women by connecting with us on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn.
