Youth nowadays have many stressors in their daily lives. Because of this, some might try to find solace in substances such as alcohol and drugs. Substance abuse is an addiction linked to a variety of mental and physical illnesses that teens have to comprehend at growing ages. Substance abuse can also lead to problems such as poor performance in school, worsening relationships with friends and family, and heightened risk of danger in certain situations.
Causes of Drug Abuse Among Youth
1. Peer pressure
This is one of the main causes of drug abuse. A vast majority of teenagers with alcohol and drug abuse problems began using them because of pressure from their social circles. Youth give into peer pressure because they want to feel like they belong in a group. Often, having a group of friends can have a positive effect on a teenager and help them develop their own personality. However, hanging out with the wrong type of people can be harmful. In these situations, teenagers often end up making bad decisions and losing their individuality.
2. Representation of drugs in mass media
Mass media presents drugs as solutions to teenagers’ mental stress, encouraging substance use. Social media glamorizes substances such as vape pens and characterizes them as relieving anxiety. In reality, they can easily lead to addiction, interfere with relationships, and increase risk of many health problems.
3. To escape from conflict in their lives
Many teenagers who abuse substances have pre-existing problems such as relationship conflict, academic issues, and stressors at home. These conflicts can drive teenagers to find escape through abusing drugs and alcohol. Youth may also turn to substances to relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression. The calm they may feel after doing drugs can make them dependent on these substances in the long term to escape from life’s problems.
Consequences
Substance abuse can lead to many adverse health outcomes, such as
- Mental illness (depression, anxiety, personality disorders)
- Suicidal thoughts
- Increased aggression
- Paranoia
- Cardiovascular issues and risk of stroke
- Poor lung health
The longer the duration of substance abuse, the more severe the negative health effects become.
How Do You Prevent Substance Abuse?
The first step to prevent substance abuse is to understand its causes. Then, it’s important to turn to healthier ways of managing stress and conflict. Here are some tips:
- Avoid falling for pro-drug marketing and understand the negative effects of drugs
- If the people you spend time with are pressuring you into doing drugs, seek the company of other peers who share your principles
- If you have pre pre-existing mental illnesses, seek therapy from a professional
- Incorporate healthy habits into your life, such as exercise, a healthy diet, and a consistent sleep schedule
- Start doing yoga
- Try meditating for peace of mind.
Related article: Cultivating Mindfulness: Tips for a Greener, Happier You
Conclusion
Many young people do not understand the seriousness of getting involved with drugs. As a high school student myself, I am not oblivious to the substance abuse that some of my peers get involved with. What I try to do to avoid precarious situations is to first know how to assert myself and say no. This might be a simple response, but is highly effective and works in any given situation. Here at Green Schools Green Future, we believe in the power of educating yourself about the world around you!
Want more healthy living tips and updates on our green school project? Join our growing community!
