We have heard it a thousand times, the world isn’t the way it used to be. Back in the early 1900s, the way people lived was much slower and there were not as many distractions. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, about 10% of Americans are addicted to at least one substance. That number is up from 8.3%, back in the early 2000s. There are a variety of factor contributing to this rise over the last 10 years.

Stress

When someone is in a stressful environment, his or her brain is constantly calling out for an escape. Some people use exercise or meditation to relax, other use alcohol or illegal drugs. Finding a healthy way to cope with tension or stress is the best way to avoid dependency on harmful substances.

Social Media

Social Media has provided great new ways to communicate, but has also created new pressures on teens and young adults. From the constant caparisons of one person to another and the updates showing how much “fun” people are having, it can weigh heavily on young people. Those feelings of loneliness and sadness lead to depression and addiction. Social media also glamorizes drug use. Celebrities from all over the world post about smoking and drinking on their Snapchat stories and Instagram pages. Young people who want to fit in and be “cool” may use drugs to try and be like the stars they see online. The continued use creates dependency among teens.

Accessibility

Illegal drugs are more accessible now than ever before, according to Live Science. Not only are they all around us, but they are stronger. Whether a person is looking for marijuana, prescription pain killers, or any other illicit substance, it is likely, that by asking a few friends, that person will find it.

How Can We Change These Trends?

• Taking time to relax every day is one way to cut down on stress. If you are stressed, remember that mental health is extremely important and take a break from the stressor.
• Social media is hard to ignore. Monitoring the amount of time you and your family members are online can reduce your chances of substance abuse related to social pressures.
• Doing activities outside of the technology like exercising, reading a book or having dinner with a friend, can be relaxing and get your mind of your phone.
• Remember, just because you can gain access to a substance, does not mean that it is the right thing to do.
   

If you or someone you know are struggling with substance dependency, CADS is here to help. Give call at (563) 326-1150. We are here for you, 24 hours a day.