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Social Media & Drugs: Substance Abuse in the Internet Age

Social Media & Drugs: Substance Abuse in the Internet Age
 

Are the internet and media connected to drug addiction? Undoubtedly, drugs are easily accessible through social media platforms like Instagram and Snapchat. Social media drugs include heroin, perception pills, and club drugs like Molly. These forms of drugs increase substance abuse disorder and overdose in America. 

Buying Drugs on Social Media

Buying heroin online or other drugs has never been easier due to the internet age. Unfortunately, overdose is also common as many drugs purchased through an online source are often laced. People will choose to buy drugs through social platforms since it’s simple to find many accounts that offer images and descriptions of the drugs that are in stock.  

Emojis are used to inform potential buyers about the products. The fire emoji means the drug is quality and the rocket emoji indicates a high potency. Of course, the dollar signs mean that the substance is for sale. Other emojis used to describe drugs include the smoke, leaf, or the “okay” hand symbol emojis.  

Purchasing drugs online is dangerous for both the buyer and seller. Even so, social media is popularly used for drug dealing. The media glamorizes drugs and alcohol, especially through trends or music. Over time, generations became desensitized to seeing drugs, and the thought of experimenting with them has become normal. Plus, people tend to discuss drug use more online than in person.  

How to Buy Drugs

People will buy drugs online for numerous reasons besides accessibility. Comparing yourself to others who drink alcohol or openly use drugs may seem unavoidable while spending a great deal of time online. Plus, online drug dealers advertise drugs well and desire to reach as many potential buyers as possible. Therefore, if a person is already feeling the fear of missing out (FOMO) and sees images of drugs, the chance of purchasing and developing an addiction increases. People who know where to buy drugs use various online platforms, including: 

  • Tinder 
  • Grindr 
  • Facebook 
  • Instagram 
  • Snapchat 
  • WhatsApp 
  • Facebook Marketplace 

Potential dangers from buying online include:  

  • Addiction 
  • Overdose 
  • Laced drugs 
  • Counterfeit drugs 
  • High possibility of robbery 
  • Being fined or charged with a felony 

As simple as it seems to buy party or prescription drugs online, this results in people forming substance abuse disorders which negatively impacts their lifestyles. Cocaine addiction, opioid, and heroin addiction are common, and treatment is highly recommended if a person begins to show signs of physical dependency. Signs may include lying, poor work ethic, avoiding social interactions, weight loss, trouble sleeping, and mood swings.  

Social Media & Drugs: Recovery at Our Florida Banyan Treatment Center

At Banyan Treatment Centers Detox Stuart, our medical staff is ready to guide you through the treatment process. We understand that addiction is experienced differently by everyone, which is why we work with you to design a treatment plan that fits your needs and recovery goals. We offer unique services like cognitive-behavioral therapy and art therapy. Don’t wait to get back on track and live a life that is not controlled by intense cravings of financial strain.  

Speak to a specialist at Banyan Stuart by calling 888-280-4763 and asking about our medically monitored detox to get started on the path to recovery today! 

 

Related Readings:  

Heroin Addiction Hotline: Number, What to Ask, & More 

Why Do People Get Addicted to Painkillers?  

Alyssa, Director of Digital Marketing
Alyssa, Director of Digital Marketing
Alyssa is the National Director of Digital Marketing and is responsible for a multitude of integrated campaigns and events in the behavioral health and addictions field. All articles have been written by Alyssa and medically reviewed by our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Darrin Mangiacarne.