Chapter 7: Smoking and Drinking

Hi everybody! So, this chapter discussed the effects of smoking and drinking. I cannot say I have ever experienced the effect of these habits firsthand, as I have never smoked or excessively drank. I have friends that engage in these behaviors, and I see how it changes their personalities. A close friend of mine began drinking heavily only a few months ago. He was a bright and happy person with a great sense of humor, and over the past few months, he has become someone I barely recognize. He sleeps extremely late in the day, and for the few hours he is awake, he seems to always be on edge unless he is drinking and/or smoking cigarettes. Of course the internal health effects of these habits are significant, however I think the behavioral effects are to be considered almost as heavily. It was uncomfortable for me to approach him about the subject because he is a very sensitive person. I feared that any criticism would only worsen his condition and increase his dependence on these substances. However, I knew I needed to break out the tough love. Luckily, he was receptive and realized I was only trying to help him because I care about him. We’ve been spending a lot of time together, so that I can both keep an eye on him and also so that I can support and encourage him whenever he has a low point. So far, I think we are making good progress.

Another aspect of smoking and drinking that I don’t think is discussed enough is the way it is portrayed in the lives of young teenagers. My oldest sibling is my fifteen year old brother. In the past year, he has begun drinking and smoking weed. Luckily, he has not gotten involved in tobacco products and has no interest in doing so. He talks to me the most about his habits because I am the older sister and what fifteen year old wants to admit drinking and smoking to his parents? When I asked him why he started, he told me that all of his friends do it. We all know peer pressure is a dangerous and, sadly, effective way of getting kids into bad habits. However, the misconception that doing these things makes you “cool” is too commonly and quickly accepted in my brother’s age group. It is growing epidemic and I don’t see it ending any time soon.

Overall, I think that the age at which people are engaging in smoking and drinking habits is decreasing. My brother and my friend are both underage, neither being twenty one. I fear for both of them now knowing more about the health effects of smoking and drinking. However, I know I can help both of them. It is just a tough position to be in.