In recent years, the allure of drugs and substance abuse, especially tobacco and its newer products, has seen a troubling rise among students not only in the country but also globally.
From flavoured vape pens to nicotine pouches, tobacco companies are capitalizing on these trends and, in many ways, targeting the youth. For students, these habits can devastate health, academic performance, and future opportunities. It’s more crucial than ever to understand the importance of staying away from drugs and harmful substances and to recognize the power of making healthy, informed choices that will impact not only the individual but also families, friends and communities.
Students are particularly vulnerable to the health risks associated with tobacco, whether in traditional forms like cigarettes or newer products like e-cigarettes and flavoured vape pens. Contrary to popular belief that these new tobacco products are not harmless, they are packed with addictive nicotine and chemicals that cause severe harm. Studies show that using nicotine can impede physical growth and damage lung development, making it harder for young people to achieve physical health in adulthood. Adolescents and young adults who start using tobacco are also more likely to develop life-long addictions, resulting in chronic illnesses like cardiovascular diseases, respiratory issues, and even cancer later in life.
Vaping, widely misunderstood as a “safer” alternative to smoking, presents its array of risks. Many vape products contain harmful chemicals, such as formaldehyde and acetone, which, when inhaled, can damage the respiratory system. These products are also associated with “popcorn lung,” a lung disease that can cause serious breathing difficulties and, in severe cases, can be life-threatening. Furthermore, research shows that young people who begin with e-cigarettes are often more likely to transition to traditional cigarettes, exposing them to even greater health risks over time.
Beyond physical health, drug and tobacco use significantly impacts mental well-being and cognitive development. Adolescence and young adulthood are critical periods for brain development, with the brain maturing well into one’s mid-twenties. Introducing toxic substances during this time interferes with normal brain growth, especially in areas that govern decision-making, self-control, and emotional regulation.
Nicotine and other addictive substances directly impact the brain’s reward pathways, leading to mood swings, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. A 2019 study found that students who use tobacco products, particularly nicotine-based ones, are at a significantly higher risk of experiencing depressive symptoms and heightened levels of anxiety. These mental health struggles can cause a cascade effect: reduced academic performance, strained relationships with family and friends, and, in severe cases, an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviours.
Furthermore, drug and substance abuse often leads to impulsivity and poor decision-making, which can cause students to engage in risky behaviours. This poor judgment can extend into many areas of life, affecting personal safety, financial health, and long-term life goals. The temporary relief or “high” offered by these substances masks a deeper, lasting toll on mental and emotional health.
Substance abuse can have a profoundly negative impact on a student’s academic trajectory and future career opportunities. Drugs, including nicotine, impair focus, memory retention, and cognitive function. Students who engage in substance use are often less likely to attend classes consistently, complete assignments, or meet deadlines. This pattern can lead to poor academic performance, jeopardizing scholarships, internship opportunities, and even the chance of attending higher education institutions.
In a highly competitive job market, companies and organizations look for individuals who demonstrate discipline, responsibility, and a commitment to health. Substance abuse not only threatens these qualities but can also lead to criminal records or suspensions, further limiting students’ career options. Staying away from drugs and substances, therefore, is not just a health choice but a commitment to building a better future with greater career and life prospects.
Substance abuse also takes a toll on students’ relationships. Drugs and tobacco products, especially novel tobacco products, foster isolation and sometimes lead individuals into friendships and environments that encourage further use. Substance dependency often takes priority over personal relationships, leading to strained family bonds, broken friendships, and missed social opportunities. Family members and friends bear the emotional weight of witnessing a loved one’s struggle with addiction, and often these bonds suffer irreparable harm.
In contrast, choosing to stay away from drugs and substances fosters healthier relationships built on mutual respect and shared values. Students who commit to a drug-free lifestyle can fully engage in positive social activities, build supportive friendships, and foster a sense of community, all of which contribute to a fulfilling and meaningful life.
Prevention is key in tackling the issue of substance abuse among students. Schools, parents, and communities play an essential role in educating young people about the risks of drug and tobacco use.
Anti-drug campaigns, counseling services, and mentorship programs are effective tools in helping students make informed decisions about their health. It is also crucial for students to have access to mental health resources and supportive environments where they can discuss peer pressure and stress openly.
By making information about the harmful effects of substance abuse readily accessible and supporting positive lifestyle choices, communities can empower students to take control of their health and future. Role models, mentors, and peers who lead by example inspire students to make decisions that honour their well-being and respect their potential.
The decision to avoid drugs and harmful substances, especially tobacco products, is one of the most impactful choices a student can make for their physical health, mental well-being, and future success. Staying drug-free not only protects individual health but also promotes a vibrant, productive community of young people prepared to lead meaningful lives. By committing to a lifestyle free from the harmful influence of drugs, students pave the way for healthier futures, stronger relationships, and brighter career prospects. In the face of widespread substance abuse, choosing a path of health, education, and resilience offers a powerful testament to the strength and potential within each student.
By Tonny O. Blair
The writer is a teacher of Chemistry & Physics, Environmental Advocate and Tobacco Control (TC) Champion.
tonnyob241@gmail.com
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