The Benefits and Drawbacks of Being Drug Free

I am drug free. I've been drug free virtually my whole life, save for that one cigarette I smoked in elementary school. There are a lot of benefits to being drug free, most of which are obvious. There are drawbacks to this lifestyle, though, most of which deal with the social stigma of the choice.

There is some debate about the definition of 'drug free.' Besides the obvious traits like not drinking alcohol or smoking cigarettes, there are some aspects that seem to be up to the individual. Some people believe that caffeine should be avoided in order to be truly drug free; while other believes its effects are so minimal that it doesn't count. Because the definition is so hotly debated, it's better to define what it means to be drug free for yourself and than to abide by what others think.

What's my personal definition of 'drug free?' Besides abstaining from drugs like alcohol, nicotine, and marijuana, I also am caffeine free. If I ever ingest caffeine, it's the trace amounts found in chocolate. The good news is that I don't really like chocolate and rarely eat it. I also try to avoid taking over the counter or prescription drugs unless absolutely necessary. I don't want to depend on a chemical that alters my body.

It's a great feeling not to rely on mind altering substances in order to have fun. This is one of the benefits of being drug free. Most benefits are health related, such as being clear minded and in control. Many people grow dependencies on drugs and alcohol, often ruining their life. Being drug free not using mind altering substances as an excuse for making bad choices.

The disadvantages to being drug free are largely social. If you're willing to be friends with people who use drugs or alcohol, you need to be very sure that you're comfortable with your choices. Even if your friends don't offer you alcohol or the like, you may still feel pressure to do it because they are. Only be friends with those people if you have a strong enough resolve to stick to your convictions. Also, prepare for people not understanding where you're coming from. I was often not invited to parties because the hosts thought I wouldn't approve of their drinking. After a few times of me telling them that I don't mind what they do, I began to get invited.

Being drug free gets easier with age. High school is often the hardest time to have this lifestyle choice. It can sometimes seem as though you're the only one who abstains from substance use. Friends may also think negatively of you for not giving into peer pressure. Ignore them, though. Acceptance is a poor reason to give up on your goals. Soon people start to realize where you come from. Also, if your friends don't accept your choice, then they may not be that great of friends after all.

Don't let social issues keep you from your goal. Sure, there are some social drawbacks to being drug free, but that would be the case if you decided to take drugs, too. At least this way you'll have a clear mind and remain in control of your actions. It's a good idea to find friends that are also drug free so that you have a support group and so you don't feel like you're the only one. Who needs drugs to have a good time anyway? It's sad if you do.