Caffeine — Awake.

Nicotine — Stress.

Alcohol — Relief.

Underage drinking and recreational use of both prescribed and illegal drugs are persistently inclining within the lives of our current teenage generation. But, most importantly, why do drugs (substances that are commonly associated with negative connotations) have such a high appeal among teenagers? Teen years are the time for exploration. It is a time when individuals mold their own opinions and are more willing to try something illegal -- the untouchable. Is it the thrill factor for being a criminal by law? Or maybe it’s for the fun of the high? What exactly attracts teenagers for recreational use of such drugs and alcohol consumption?

Well, to start off, teens are curious. But what we didn’t expect was that such curiosity could kill the cat. Drugs of all classes would have never been attempted had they not been publicized to the public via media or peers. Exposure is a large factor for such approaches. After trying out a certain drug, some people want more while others don’t bother to ever try it a second time. Those who go back to using want to explore their options where one drug usually leads to another, and then to another, and another, etc.

Marijuana — in it for the high.

Psychedelics — Open up.

Amphetamines — Instant satisfaction

Sedatives — Relax

Illegal drugs are glorified in various films. Such topics are advertised in media, improving those who are bored by providing them options for an excuse of rebellion, escape or even plain curiosity. What doesn’t click, is the adamant demand for popularity.

People want to delve deeper into their minds and find new forms of entertainment after getting bored with the previous drug. This typically leads to addiction: an uncontrollable and mindless act of desire; an unconscious desire for more damage and for more perspectives. How did this appeal begin? At what point does consuming an illegal substance or drug seem acceptable? Even though it’s illegal? What makes it so attractive?

It all stems from one’s peers, supported by the accessibility and connections an individual has. One’s teenage years are not only for growth for the individual, but it is also a confusing time to find oneself. Reverting to drugs is an easy escape, especially for those who suffer from any form of mental instability. They find that it eases them, pushing away all responsibilities and trying to ignore pressing priorities: denial; quite a popular ideal.

Drugs are a form of escape. Whenever one opens up more, they’re exposed to many options so it leads to such the case. Each individual requires so much attention. Doesn’t illegal substance use result in such negative attention? People view it so negatively due to social standards. What good comes out of that? Only experience. Experience is the only positive factor that comes out of such an imagination.

Heroin — Escape.

Crack — Turmoil.

Meth — Desperation.

What has our world come to? Despair and repetition? Absolutely not. There is only time for improvement. Especially after foolish mistakes. Of course there are many other options available to us, but the real question is, will you accept the mental challenge?