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Rising Above the Struggle: A Stoic Journey Through Substance Abuse Challenges

Kal
4 min readNov 16, 2023
A stoic figure fighting a snake(addiction).

Man conquers the world by conquering himself.

Zeno of Citium

Substance abuse, a prevalent societal struggle, often leads individuals into a labyrinth of challenges. In this exploration of the depths of substance abuse, we draw inspiration from Stoic philosophy, seeking resilience and transformation amidst the shadows.

A. Definition of Substance Abuse

Stoically, substance abuse is an external, indifferent circumstance — an obstacle on the path of virtue. It challenges the Stoic individual to navigate the dichotomy of control, recognizing that true power lies in response, not in the substance itself.

B. Prevalence and Impact

Understanding the prevalence of substance abuse through a Stoic lens requires acknowledging the broader context of human actions. The impact of this struggle becomes an opportunity for individuals to exercise their Stoic virtues.

II. The Downward Spiral

A. Initial Encounters with Substance Abuse

In Stoicism, the initial encounter with substances is an indifferent event. The ensuing spiral, however, becomes a…

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Kal
Kal

Written by Kal

I believe that it is crucial for men to have a supportive space to discuss their feelings and experiences, and to feel comfortable seeking help when needed

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