Drugs. You’ve heard the stories. You’ve seen the movies. You’ve been told a million times. But have you really paid attention? It seems like the more parents and teachers try to teach teens about the dangers of using drugs, the more teens are compelled to go out and use them. Why? Well, there are a plethora of reasons, which I’m sure you’ve heard before:

“It’ll make me popular!” Yes, using drugs may make you popular for a little while, but more than likely, that popularity will begin to wear off. And after it wears off, what’s left? Just an addiction you can’t shake and friends who can’t help. 

“Everyone else is doing it!” This has got to be one of the oldest reasons in the book. It may seem to you like suddenly everyone’s new after-school hangout is under the bleachers, but if you look carefully enough, I’ll bet you you’ll find not everyone follows the pack.

 

“My life is so miserable. I need an escape.” Kids who come from dysfunctional homes are more likely to use drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism. But the temporary escape of drugs doesn’t ease the pain – it only masks it temporary.

“Why not? One time won’t hurt.” Drugs are very powerful, some more than others. They release chemicals that mess with your mind and body, making you crave more of the drug. And addictions are hard to kick. So one time just might lead to another, and why take that risk?

 

“I’m just curious as to what it’s like.” Many teens love to try new experiences that appear exciting and crave firsthand knowledge. But have you ever heard the old saying, “curiosity killed the cat?” If you crave excitement, try the adrenaline that comes with sports, or the altered states that can come with playing a really good song.

 

“It looks so cool on TV.” The lifestyles of music, sports, and movie stars often sends the message that drugs are cool. But what about the photos of actors emerging from rehab? That’s not so admirable.

 

True confessions: I have never used drugs myself, so I confess that I am unaware of how they can truly affect your body and mind. I just want all of you fellow teens out there to be aware of what drugs can do to you, and that there is never a good excuse for smoking or doing drugs. 

 

So, please guys, try to keep that five letter word, D-R-U-G-S, out of your vocabulary.