Rendering: Poem About Drug Withdrawal

Link to poem: https://www.familyfriendpoems.com/poem/meth-2

This poem, written by a teen struggling with drug addition, features a touching story about overcoming desires and breaking free from the slavery of an addition to drugs. What once promised "a better tomorrow" (line 4) and "peace of mind" (line 8) only ended up with him being deceived (line 10), still wanting (line 12), and filled with fear (line 15), shame (line 25) and pain (line 26). It is only from line 27 to the end of the poem where he speaks of his longing to "see life without depression" (line 29), and he makes up his mind to leave behind his old habits (line 39) and to look forward to the future, knowing that he is free (line 43) and that he has finally found himself (line 44).

I was moved by this poem because I have been through addiction and depression (although not related to drugs), but I can certainly relate to the pain and shame he expresses. Students go through a roller coaster of emotions during their teen years, and sometimes things get so overwhelming that there needs to be an escape, a chance to get away from all the pressure, stress, emotions and worries. Unfortunately, drugs are seen and marketed as a very attractive option, promising to alleviate all of the negative symptoms one may experience during adolescence. It is only natural for students to quickly get addicted to this, because once they try it for the first time, it's exhilarating and holds true to its "promises". It is only after becoming sober that one realizes that he/she feels much more miserable without the drug, and is immediately looking to feel that pleasure again, experience that escape, that release. It seems to be a never-ending cycle and the only thing waiting at the end of the road is a broken life filled with despair and depression, and in some unfortunate cases, suicide.

I believe that although it would be difficult, the best option is to say "NO" from the beginning, and not to even entertain the thought of trying it for the first time, regardless of what people say. But all the stress, emotions, raging hormones, etc. must be directed towards some sort of outlet, and should not be suppressed. Teens should instead look towards healthier outlets to alleviate these symptoms, options such as working out/physical activity, investing time in a hobby or time helping others, hanging out with the right friends, and staying close to God (for teens who are religious or raised in religious families). The ultimate goal here is happiness, and drugs don't promise that. The sooner we can realize this, the better things will be.