How Bullying Can Lead To Drug Abuse

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Bullying is not a normal part of a person’s childhood and adolescence. Unfortunately, this phenomenon is treated lightly because many adults think that it is a part of growing up, and children should simply get over it. Well, there needs to be stricter consequences for these bullies. In a study conducted in Los Angeles, Houston, and Birmingham with over 4,000 children, scientists found a correlation between those who were bullied in fifth grade and those who abuse substances starting in the 10th grade. “A child bullied in fifth grade is more likely to show signs of depression in seventh grade, and abuse substances like alcohol, marijuana or tobacco in 10th grade, researchers say” (Miller, 2017).
​The findings did not vary between genders either. Males and females who were bullied generated the same results. Kids who stand out from others, such as those who are overweight, gay, or dealing with a chronic illness, are more likely to be bullied than those who are not. Their differences lead to negative emotions and feelings of hopelessness. In turn, they use substances to deal with it, even though it is only making their problems worse. Bullying needs to be stopped at a young age in order to counteract the foreseen outcome. Kindness can go a long way. If you or somebody you know is abusing substances in an unhealthy way along with depression or other mental illnesses, contact Helix today. It is time to end the stigma about bullying and Substance Abuse Disorder.

U.S. News, "Bullied in 5th Grade, Prone to Drug Abuse by High School"