Gen Z and Drugs

Each generation has had its own addiction dilemma. Drug use by generation looks like Boomers abused acid, Generation X have Prozac, and Millennials are known for their coke misuse and binge drinking. When it comes to Gen Z and drugs, the issue seems to stay in debate. Mostly, Gen Z uses marijuana and shrooms, but does the majority that makes up the generation abuse their time on smartphones?  

The Link Between Gen Z and Substance Abuse  

Generation Z has watched their peers, such as older siblings and parents, struggle with addiction and premarital sex. Therefore, the urgency to remain sober is more prevalent than in older generations. Gen Z has dedicated a lot of its energy toward protests and keeping up with social status. However, this does not mean there is not a high amount of people, especially young adults and teens, who abuse drugs.  

Gen Z is still at high risk for addiction since its generation is increasingly lonely and obsessed with social media. Social platforms, such as TikTok and Instagram, pose lifestyles that are not accurate and seem unattainable, especially when it comes to body image. This causes high levels of stress and pressure.  

Many prescription drugs, such as antidepressants, are given to teenagers to help with depressive episodes and mood regulation. Due to unaffordable healthcare, many teenagers and young adults don’t get the treatment they need to overcome addiction.  

Gen Z and Mental Health Causing Addiction  

Generation Z can certainly be considered a depressed generation. During their childhood and teenage years, they faced mass shootings, political turmoil, and racial inequality. The generation is beyond stress and burnout. Psychologists think their anxiety reaches the same level as teenagers diagnosed as psychotic in the 90s. Dual diagnosis treatment is often necessary if a mental condition intertwines with addiction.  

There are many problems associated with leaving mental health conditions unaddressed. Depression and anxiety cause improper functioning in the brain which interferes with a healthy lifestyle. Signs of depression are feeling hopeless, a lack of motivation or interest, sleeping problems, uncontrolled emotions, and extreme irritability. For parents, it’s essential to notice signs of common mental conditions to prevent long-term complications or substance misuse.  

Substance Abuse Recovery at Our Pompano Beach Treatment Center 

At Banyan Treatment Centers Pompano, we offer unique programs for people from all walks of life. From LGBTQIA+ treatment programs to motivational interviewing and Christian-based programs, our medical staff has you covered. We crack down on the link between Gen Z and drugs. Our mission is to get to the root of the problem and help individuals conquer intrusive thoughts and substance abuse to enjoy a life worth living.