It is about addiction, so there's quite a bit of drugs/drinking/smoking. There is violence, as addicts are very often violent. There's also sex (not shown, just talked about) including prostitution for drugs, and swearing (the really bad words are bleeped out). But, there are positive messages in this show. It shows you the life of an addict, and it can show kids that, even though some shows make doing drugs and drinking look cool, but there are very bad consequences. I would say it's not for kids 13 or under, as they are very impressionable. A good idea would be to watch this show with your kids, and after, ask them if they've ever felt pressured, and teach them ways to say no. Explain to them that drug use is NOT cool, and will not be taken lightly. Overall, it is a good show, and can teach us a lot.