Some teenagers in China are increasingly turning to drugs as a way of distancing themselves from the pressures and difficulties of everyday life, raising concerns among families, schools and health professionals.

The trend has drawn attention to the challenges faced by young people dealing with academic pressure, social expectations and uncertainty about their futures. For some teenagers, substance use can become an attempt to temporarily disconnect from stress rather than simply an act of experimentation.

Young people who misuse drugs may describe feeling emotionally numb or detached from their surroundings. What initially appears to offer an escape can, however, lead to serious physical and psychological consequences, as well as problems at school and within families.

Experts say prevention efforts need to address the reasons young people may become vulnerable to substance use. Simply warning teenagers about the dangers of drugs may not be enough if underlying stress, isolation or other difficulties remain unaddressed.

Families and schools can play an important role by creating environments where teenagers feel able to discuss pressure and emotional struggles without fear of immediate judgment. Early support can also help identify young people who may be at risk before substance use becomes more serious.

The issue highlights a broader challenge facing many young people: finding healthy ways to cope with pressure in an environment where expectations can feel overwhelming. Tackling drug misuse among teenagers therefore requires not only enforcement and education, but also greater attention to the circumstances that can drive vulnerable young people to seek an escape.

Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c99d08j3kz1o