Study Shows 200 Million People Use Illegal Drugs

By Brooke Strickland

While most people know that drug use is extremely rampant all over the world, a recent published study showed that roughly 200 million people worldwide use illicit drugs such as marijuana, amphetamines, cocaine, and opiates each year.  This means approximately one in 20 people between the ages of 15 and 64 use drugs. Researchers estimated that 203 million use  marijuana, 56 million use amphetamines, 21 million people use cocaine, and 21 million use opioids such as heroin. [1] Developed countries showed the highest use in these four categories and 39 million people are estimated to show signs of dependency or drug abuse.

Many people experiment with drugs for a variety of reasons, whether it’s to enhance athletic performance, to have a good time, or to fit in with their peers.  There are serious health complications in using illicit drugs including overdose, intoxication, long-term organ and brain harm, and death.   It’s no secret that drug use is not something to dabble in – it can suck the life out of the individual taking drugs and can be detrimental to family, social, and work life.

If you suspect someone you know or love is abusing drugs, it’s important to speak up.  Talk to the person directly about your concern, offer support, and try to avoid being judgmental.  Remember not to blame yourself for their problem. Also, take care of yourself.  Don’t wrap yourself up in unnecessary drama or put yourself in dangerous situations.  Being a responsible, caring, and supportive person to an individual trying to battle drug addiction will help them on the road to recovery.