Drug Use Among the Youth in America and The Need for Legal Representation
Drugs, both illegal and legal, have always been abused by a certain percentage of the population. In recent years, teens and students have made up an ever-increasing percentage of this population. According to recent statistics by the SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions), the rate of illicit drug use among youths ages 12-17 has increased to 10.1 percent in 2010, a large difference from 2008′s rate of 9.3. Marijuana was found to be the most commonly used illicit drug, followed by psychotherapeutic drugs used for non-medical purposes (sedatives, analgesics, stimulants and tranquilizers).
Not surprisingly, the current illicit drug use rate was much higher among young adults aged 18 to 25. 21.5 percent of this age demographic admits to using marijuana, psychotherapeutic drugs for non-medical purposes, hallucinogens and cocaine. The study also showed that the illicit drug use rate varied by the educational status of adults age 18 and over, with the rate being lower among college graduates than the lifetime rate for high school graduates.
The rate of illicit drug use among college students, even full-time students, is similar to the rate among other persons aged 18 to 22. These numbers point to the fact that illicit drugs are being sold and distributed on college campuses. Students have admitted to obtaining prescription drugs used for non-medical purposes “from a friend or relative for free”. A follow-up question revealed that the friend or relative had obtained the drugs from one doctor. Only 2.3 percent reported that the friend or relative had bought the drugs from a dealer or other stranger. Vicodin, OxyContin and Adderall are some of the most commonly abused prescription drugs.