“Oh yeah! Let’s get high.”
“Pass me the doobie, bro!”
“Get me some cream!”
Do these phrases sound familiar? These are the slang terms used by many youngsters to refer to psychoactive substances. With such catchy expressions, it makes you wonder: why are so many young people turning to drugs?
While some European countries, like Portugal and the Netherlands, have decriminalized drug use, making it easier for youngsters to access, it raises the question—does this normalization encourage young people to use and even abuse drugs? I believe the answer is complex.
Although some countries have adopted harm-reduction approaches, drug abuse is still a significant concern. It’s crucial to understand the deeper reasons behind why so many youngsters choose this dangerous path. The consequences of drug abuse can destroy mental health, relationships, and even lives. The question remains: why would anyone risk all that?
Schaeffer’s Model of Drug Use: The Stages of Addiction
According to Schaeffer’s Model, drug use begins as an experiment, progresses into recreational use, then moves to situational use, and, in more extreme cases, turns into compulsive addiction. The reasons for abusing drugs change at each stage, but understanding these stages helps shed light on how young people fall into the trap of addiction.
Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the common reasons youngsters turn to drugs.
1. Influenced by Music, Movies, and Web Series
Let’s be honest: many popular songs, movies, and TV shows glamorize drug use. From movies that portray drug use as a form of rebellion to music that celebrates partying with substances, young minds are often deeply influenced by these depictions.
Movies and shows like The A-Team, Semi-charmed Life, and Sweet Morphine have undeniably left an imprint on pop culture. For adolescents, this influence can be strong. They see it as part of the “cool” lifestyle, and soon, they want to try it for themselves. Teenagers often emulate what they see, believing it’s the path to fitting in.
Additionally, drugs are often easily accessible to young people through local dealers who specifically target high school and college students. This combination of media influence and easy access can lead youngsters to experiment with drugs, sometimes with dangerous consequences.
2. Seeking a Substitute for Alcohol
Alcohol is often the first substance many youngsters try. However, as they seek stronger experiences, some turn to drugs. Unlike alcohol, which can take time to make an impact, psychoactive substances provide an instant “high,” which many youngsters find more appealing.
Drugs like marijuana, ecstasy, and others produce immediate feelings of euphoria. This quick effect draws young people who are looking for a faster, more potent experience than what alcohol can offer. In their minds, drugs offer a more thrilling alternative.
3. Peer Pressure: The Desire to Fit In
The teenage years are filled with a desire to belong. Peer pressure is a significant driver behind many risky behaviors, including drug use. To fit in with a specific social circle, youngsters might try drugs to look “cool” or “in.” They believe that using drugs is a way to gain acceptance.
Unfortunately, what starts as a form of social inclusion can quickly spiral into addiction, as drugs take hold of the body and mind. The need for validation becomes more critical than the risks associated with drug use.
4. Seeking Pleasure and Escapism
Many youngsters turn to drugs for the feeling of pleasure they bring. Drugs stimulate the brain, increasing the production of dopamine and adrenaline, which results in an intense sense of excitement or euphoria. Some young people, particularly those experimenting with substances, do it simply for the “fun” of it.
Psychotropic substances are often perceived as a way to escape daily stress or feel more alive. However, this illusion of escape can quickly become a dangerous addiction.
5. Living with Abusive Parents
Unfortunately, many youngsters grow up in difficult home environments, where they are exposed to emotional or physical abuse. Studies have shown that around 58% of children in troubled households, particularly those with parents who use drugs, are more likely to abuse substances themselves.
The link between drug-abusing parents and children turning to drugs is stark. These children may be seeking a way to cope with their emotions or avoid the harsh realities of their home lives. Sadly, many young people turn to drugs as a means of dealing with trauma or finding relief from their daily struggles.
6. Bullying and Coercion by Friends
It’s important to note that bullying plays a huge role in why some youngsters resort to drugs. When kids are bullied, they may seek out drugs to escape from the emotional pain they feel. In some cases, friends or peers may even force or pressure them into trying drugs, believing it will help them fit in.
However, as many know, trying drugs even once can lead to addiction. This is why it’s essential to educate young people about the dangers of drug use and teach them how to handle peer pressure.
7. Wealth and Pampered Lifestyles
A significant factor in the rise of drug abuse among wealthy youngsters is easy access to money. Rich children often have more disposable income, and without the structure or guidance from their parents, they may feel free to experiment with drugs. In some cases, they may even view drugs as part of a luxury lifestyle, adding to the thrill and excitement of living on the edge.
Parents must understand that while it’s essential to provide for their children, they should also teach them values and boundaries, especially when it comes to making responsible choices.
8. Peddling Drugs for Quick Money
Some youngsters do not use drugs just for personal use; they sell them as well. Drug dealers often target young people, offering them a way to make quick money. This dangerous practice of peddling drugs at a young age can create lifelong problems for these kids.
In some cases, children may be forced into selling drugs due to financial struggles at home or as a result of peer pressure. Regardless, the impact on these young minds is profound, often pushing them deeper into the world of substance abuse.
9. Reclusiveness and Isolation
Some young people, especially those who are introverted or struggle with social anxiety, turn to drugs as a way to numb themselves and feel more comfortable in their isolation. For these youngsters, drug use may offer a temporary escape from the pain they feel in social situations or during moments of loneliness.
10. Influence of Western Trends in Eastern Countries
With the decriminalization of drugs in parts of Europe and the U.S., many young people in developing countries have started to experiment with drugs as well. While Eastern countries often have strict laws, illegal drug trade and influence from Western culture continue to make drugs more accessible to younger generations.
11. Drugs as a Coping Mechanism for Mental Health Issues
Teenagers often struggle with emotional and mental health challenges, and in the absence of proper coping mechanisms, they may turn to drugs as a form of self-medication. Whether it’s depression, anxiety, or stress, substances can temporarily numb negative feelings. However, this is not a healthy solution and long-term use can lead to serious mental health and addiction issues.
12. Belief that Drugs Boost Confidence
Some youngsters believe that certain drugs will help them overcome shyness or self-esteem issues. They think that taking drugs will make them more confident in social situations, leading them to try substances in the hopes of feeling more secure. Unfortunately, this belief is short-lived, as the long-term effects of drug abuse only exacerbate the underlying issues.
Conclusion: A Call for Support and Awareness
Drug use and abuse among youngsters are complex issues driven by many factors. Whether it’s media influence, peer pressure, a troubled home life, or the desire for self-medication, it’s clear that drugs are often seen as an escape or a way to enhance social experiences.
However, the consequences are devastating. Instead of turning to drugs, youngsters need to seek support from their families, friends, and professionals to deal with the pressures of life. It’s important to address the root causes of drug abuse and provide healthier alternatives for coping with stress, depression, and social pressures.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, reach out for help. There are people and organizations ready to support you. Drugs may offer temporary relief, but they are not the answer to life’s problems.
Let’s work together to create a healthier future for our youngsters.
