When someone mentions “Peer Pressure” we tend to think of being offered drugs or alcohol as a teen.
But that’s a massive oversimplification of the multiple forms of #PeerPressure, direct & indirect, and how it can affect us as adults, specifically with regards to #SubstanceAbuse
But that’s a massive oversimplification of the multiple forms of #PeerPressure, direct & indirect, and how it can affect us as adults, specifically with regards to #SubstanceAbuse
Peer Pressure exists our entire lives, and it isn’t as simple as D.A.R.E. makes it seem.
With Substance Abuse Disorder, peer pressure can be the onset, perpetuate use, or cause a relapse. And it’s typically not someone “making” you; we react to social situations subconsciously.
With Substance Abuse Disorder, peer pressure can be the onset, perpetuate use, or cause a relapse. And it’s typically not someone “making” you; we react to social situations subconsciously.
One way in which peer pressure can contribute is via “Modeling Behavior.”
When we feel left out by not doing the same thing as everyone else, we can “feel” the pressure to partake. For example, a recovering alcoholic may feel the need to drink at a happy hour or a party.
When we feel left out by not doing the same thing as everyone else, we can “feel” the pressure to partake. For example, a recovering alcoholic may feel the need to drink at a happy hour or a party.
A bit harder to pinpoint, Cognitive Processes also play a role. Essentially, we convince ourselves we “need” a substance, either to be “ourselves,” be more fun, etc. With myriad #MentalHealth problems associated with Substance Abuse, it can be tough to manage these Processes.
And for those with Substance Abuse Disorder, the anxiety, depression, or even withdrawal symptoms can make it incredibly difficult to fight these feelings.
And lastly, there’s always the old fashioned, direct, peer pressure we’re familiar with.
And lastly, there’s always the old fashioned, direct, peer pressure we’re familiar with.
Substance Abuse Disorder is not only hard to manage, it’s also arguably the most stigmatized #mentalillness.
Friends, family and others may blame you, not think it’s an actual disorder, etc. On top of dealing with the substance abuse itself, there’s work, relationships & more.
Friends, family and others may blame you, not think it’s an actual disorder, etc. On top of dealing with the substance abuse itself, there’s work, relationships & more.
If you struggle with #SubstanceAbuseDisorder, please reach out for help. There are *always* people who care & are willing to help.
If you know someone dealing with Substance Abuse Disorder, please support them and get them professional help. Recovery does not happen on its own.
If you know someone dealing with Substance Abuse Disorder, please support them and get them professional help. Recovery does not happen on its own.
If you don’t know how exactly you can help, what you can do is be open, remove judgement, and check in on your loved ones. You never know who is struggling underneath the face they put on, no matter how “fine” they seem.
We can all help #EndTheStigma. Be positive, be supportive, and help others.
And remember, Substance Abuse is not a fault, it’s a disease. 💚
And remember, Substance Abuse is not a fault, it’s a disease. 💚
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