Understanding Drug Use Among Young Adults ─ Reasons, Challenges And Treatment

When the 25-year-old Zendaya won an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama, for her powerful portrayal of the teenage addict Rue in Euphoria in 2020, young adults around the world couldn’t keep calm. The success of the show has also raised several eyebrows considering all the substance abuse that is portrayed.

“I know you’re not allowed to say it, but drugs are kind of cool.”

You can’t help wondering: are shows like Euphoria glorifying substance abuse or basically showing the reality? Drug use and abuse amongst young adults is something that is so common that it’s almost normalized. But why is it so? Why do we keep normalizing underage drinking or substance abuse amongst teens?

Let’s find out!

All Inside Your Head ─ Drugs And Young Adults

Yes, American teens have easy access to both alcohol and other substances. But that is not why these teenagers are tempted to do them. Yes, pop culture portrays teens behaving like adults, and doing every illicit substance out there, and that naturally puts an idea inside these young, impressionable heads.

But if things were as easy as it appears on the surface then America would be a drug-free country today. So without wasting any further time, let’s explore the reasons behind the obsession-like demand for drugs amongst young adults in the United States. Scroll down to find out more on the same.

1. Dysfunctional Family

The worst thing that you can do to your child is giving them enough trauma in their growing years, thereby ruining their entire childhood and even adolescent years in the process. Divorces and separations are pretty normal, but when the impact falls on your kids, that is where things start going wrong.

“I guess, I’ll get high about it.”

The changing family dynamics often fail to make sense to children, who are perhaps in the search of some stability. Just because your child hangs around in their own room, it doesn’t mean your child is not aware of all those fights you and your partner keep having. Naturally, it creates an inherent sadness that influences these kids, and they simply turn to substances as a coping mechanism.

2. Undiagnosed Mental Health Issues

Mental health is perhaps the most essential aspect of anyone’s well-being. But the problem arises when mental health issues are ignored, leaving space for undiagnosed troubles to grow and develop into bigger troubles. A little anxiety can develop into full-fledged Bipolar Disorder.

“Find what you love, and let it kill you…”

The stigma around mental health makes it difficult to talk about the same. There are many young adults who hate talking about their anxiety or depression or any other trouble and instead just prefer doing some drugs, a coping mechanism of sorts – this naturally leads to the development of long-term addiction habits.

3. Low Self-Esteem

Kids can be brutal and bullying is a part of their daily lives. Only difference? While few kids enjoy bullying, others are often bullied. Bullying can create enough trauma for a lifetime, not to mention low self-esteem issues. Low Self-esteem can be dangerous and traumatic, motivating young adults to cope with the help of drugs.

“Stuck somewhere between let’s get the degree and let’s do meth”

There are teenagers who have been doing drugs from such a young age that many of them have developed disorders of sorts where drugs have become a way of life. The only solution for these troubled young adults? Substance use disorder treatment and several bouts of therapy for a healthier future. Click here to know more.

One thing that becomes evident from all the reasons mentioned above is how the basic reason behind the popularity of drugs amongst young adults is coping mechanisms. We all have our own troubles and coping methods but using drugs is not really a solution, especially in the long run.

We Gotta Quit…But Why?

The strangest thing about being addicted to drugs is you keep wondering why you should quit when it’s all under control. But that is the problem. It’s all under control, till it’s not. And one day, your body might not be able to tolerate your usual dosage, and the rest shall become history.

“But in the end, we’re all just drug addicts waiting for a dealer.”

Moreover, no one randomly does a whole lot of drugs suddenly. When someone keeps going back to such substances, it is only a matter of time before you will find them increasing their dosage. Naturally, once the frequency and dosage increase, things are already out of your control, more than you even know.

So what are the possible consequences of substance abuse by young adults?

1. Most vehicle accidents are a result of intoxication. Young adults with their new adulthood and licenses might feel reckless under the effects of substances. Do you know that on-we-are-drunk-let’s-go-for-a-drive mode after all the alcohol is over? Yes, that is exactly where you should draw the line, book a cab, and go back home.
2. If accidents are a major consequence of substance abuse then the same is also true for other physical health-related issues. For instance, all the physical accidents including violent fights, breaking of bottles, falling down the stairs, or even the transmission of HIV/AIDS are all possible, especially when young adults are enjoying their euphoric high, wasted, or passed out.
3. The immediate effects are usually more dangerous since the long-standing effects of substance abuse at least give you the space for recovery. The United States has seen so many overdose deaths in the past few years that it is being called an epidemic now – overdose is the ultimate consequence of long-term substance use.
4. The effects mentioned are all physical, but there are other deeper effects of substance abuse. For instance, your academics perhaps receive the worst blow while personal relationships come a close second, followed by other graver issues related to mental health, memory, and even unsafe sexual activities.

Life After Drugs ─ A Revelation

Young adults and artists are the most likely to indulge in substance abuse, and while teenagers look at drugs as a tool for coping mechanisms and a way of life, artists often look at the same as a performance-enhancing tool for creating art. But that’s where the stereotypical thought process sets in.

“You’re not a bad person for the ways you tried to kill your sadness.”

The entire idea of freedom is associated with drugs as many addicts have often pointed out the entire experience as liberating. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Seeking help when you still have time on your hands is perhaps the wisest thing you can do. If you or anyone close to you is struggling with substance abuse, seeking help is the best and only solution – time is precious, don’t waste it!

Seeking Help ─ The Vital Step Towards Recovery

Addiction is a complex issue that often arises from various factors, and the journey toward recovery is equally intricate. Recognizing the need for help is the first step toward a healthier and substance-free life. In a society where drug use among young adults is prevalent, seeking assistance becomes a crucial aspect of breaking the chains of addiction.

The Path to Recovery

Recovering from substance abuse is not a solitary journey but a path that requires support and professional guidance. Many individuals grappling with addiction may be hesitant to seek help due to stigma or fear of judgment. However, it’s essential to understand that seeking assistance is a sign of strength, not weakness. Rehab centers, therapy, and support groups, including reputable facilities like Detox Phoenix, provide valuable resources for those committed to overcoming the challenges of addiction.

Acknowledging the problem and choosing to address it head-on requires courage. It’s a decision that can reshape the course of one’s life. The journey to recovery involves not only detoxification and rehabilitation but also a profound self-discovery. It’s about understanding the underlying issues that led to substance abuse and developing healthier coping mechanisms.