Podcast:Growing up without

drugs
Host 1 (Introductory - Naidelyn):

Welcome to a new episode of “Growing Without Drugs!” In this podcast, we discuss topics
that are relevant to our society, and today we are going to talk about a subject that deeply
concerns us: drug use among adolescents. This is a complex issue with many facets, and it
is something that not only affects young people but also impacts families and society as a
whole. To delve into this topic, today we have a diverse panel: Dr. Dennis Gabriel Cerino
Arévalo, a psychiatrist specialized in addictions, and Dr. Ximena Wendolyn Blanco Cornelio,
a neuroscientist with extensive experience in the effects of substances on the brain. We
are also joined by Camila and Naidelyn, two young individuals who will share their
perspectives and experiences with us. And I am Eimy Valeria, your moderator for this
episode. Stay with us for a very important and enlightening conversation!

[The conversation begins]

Eimy Valeria (Interviewer):

Thank you all for joining us today. To start, I want to ask Naidelyn and Camila: in your
environment, how common is drug use among adolescents? Is it something you see
around you frequently, or is it a more isolated issue?

Camila (Interviewee 1):

Hi,Eimy Valeria, thank you for the invitation. In my environment, the truth is that drug use
is quite common. Although not everyone uses drugs, it’s something that’s talked about a
lot, especially in high school. Many of my peers have tried or are currently trying
marijuana, some also regularly consume alcohol, and in larger groups, other substances
like cocaine or ecstasy are also accessible. It’s a culture that’s been normalizing, especially
at parties. Often, it’s not seen as something dangerous, and young people, out of curiosity
or peer pressure, try it without thinking about the consequences. Marijuana, in particular,
is seen as something “light,” almost trivial, but when you see some friends who can’t stop
or start having problems, you realize what it really implies.

Naidelyn (Interviewee 2):

I agree with Camila. I think drug use among adolescents, in general, is being normalized,
and not just because of peer pressure, but also due to the myth that some drugs aren’t
dangerous. There’s a kind of “misinformation” about the real risks. Prevention campaigns
are often very focused on showing the negative effects on adults, but they don’t explain
well the impact it has on young people, who have developing brains and are therefore
more vulnerable. Peer pressure also plays an important role: if you don’t participate in
these experiences, you might feel excluded. It’s not that people do it because they want to
harm their health, it’s more about the desire to belong or fit into a group.

Eimy Valeria (Interviewer):

It’s very interesting how you mention social pressure and misinformation. In a way, it
seems that the youth environment creates a sort of “normalization” of drug use. Now, Dr.
Dennis, what really happens in the brain of a teenager when they use drugs? What makes
them more vulnerable to addiction at this stage of life?

Dr. Dennis (Psychiatrist):

That’s an excellent question, Eimy Valeria. The adolescent brain is in a very specific stage of
development, where there is a major reorganization of its structures, especially in areas
related to decision-making, impulse control, and risk assessment. The prefrontal cortex,
which is the area of the brain responsible for planning and self-control, is still maturing. In
teenagers, this area is not fully developed, which limits their ability to reflect on long-term
consequences. This increases the likelihood that they may act impulsively or without
considering the effects of their decisions, including substance use.

In parallel, the dopamine system, which regulates rewards and pleasure, is much more
active in teenagers. When they use drugs, especially those that directly affect dopamine
release, like marijuana, cocaine, or methamphetamines, the brain experiences a massive
release of this substance, producing intense sensations of euphoria and well-being. This
creates a very powerful reinforcement response, meaning that the brain begins to
associate drugs with immediate rewards, creating a kind of “cycle” where the young person
continues to seek that gratification. This combination of impulsivity, desire for immediate
reward, and lack of maturity in decision-making makes teenagers much more vulnerable
to falling into drug abuse and dependency.

Dr. Ximena (Neuroscientist):

Exactly, and I’d like to add that the adolescent brain is not only more vulnerable due to its
structural immaturity but also because it’s going through a reorganization of neural
connections. The experiences they have during this stage have a deeper impact on how
those connections are formed and reinforced. Drug use interferes with this natural
maturation process, which can alter the functioning of key brain areas, such as those
responsible for memory, learning, and emotional regulation.

Moreover, when teenagers use drugs, they’re not only affecting the brain’s chemistry in the
moment, but they’re also altering the way their brains connect and develop. These
alterations can be permanent, which has long-term implications for their ability to handle
stress, make healthy decisions, and, in general, for their emotional well-being.

Eimy Valeria (Interviewer):

It’s fascinating how drugs not only affect the present moment but also alter such an
important developmental process. Now, Camila and Naidelyn, you mentioned that social
pressure plays a significant role, but do you think teenagers truly understand the risks they
take when using drugs? What kind of education or information do you think would be
necessary for young people to have a clearer understanding of the dangers?

Camila (Interviewee 1):

I think many young people aren’t truly aware of the risks, partly because the information
we receive isn’t well-targeted. In school, they talk to us about the dangers, but generally,
it’s vague warnings like “drugs are bad” or “you could lose your future.” But they don’t
specifically explain how drugs affect our developing brains or what can happen with long-
term use. There’s a disconnect between what they tell us and what we’re actually
experiencing. Most teenagers can’t imagine the future consequences because we live so
much in the present, the instant gratification, the “now or never” mentality. So I feel that
we need more detailed information, more practical knowledge, real experiences, and less
moralizing.

Naidelyn (Interviewee 2):

I completely agree. I also think we’re missing a more realistic education, something that
speaks directly to what we’re going through, about how the brain is changing and why
we’re more vulnerable. Prevention campaigns need to go beyond statistics on abuse or
tragic stories. We need to understand what drives us to use drugs and how we can face
that pressure. If the campaigns were closer to us, more interactive, and gave us concrete
tools to handle pressure situations, I think teenagers would be more receptive.

Eimy Valeria (Interviewer):

It’s very clear what both Camila and Naidelyn are saying: we need a deeper education,
more connected to the reality of teenagers. Now, back to the experts—Dr. Dennis, Dr.
Ximena, what types of treatments currently exist for teenagers who have already fallen
into drug use? Are they effective? What is the recovery outlook?

Dr. Ximena (Neuroscientist):

From a neuroscientific perspective, it’s important to understand that while the adolescent
brain is very plastic—which means it has a great capacity to adapt and change—it is also
highly susceptible to the effects of drugs. Substances can negatively alter this plasticity,
especially if use begins at an early age or continues over a long period. That said, if there’s
early intervention and appropriate treatment, the brain has a remarkable ability to
recover.

In addition to cognitive-behavioral therapy, there are also pharmacological treatments that

can help in certain cases, especially when there are co-occurring disorders like depression
or anxiety, which are often present in teenagers who use drugs. Medications that regulate
the dopamine system or modulate emotional responses can be helpful in combination
with therapy.

A comprehensive approach involving the family, friends, and social environment of the
teenager is essential, as drug use doesn’t just affect the individual but has an impact on
everyone around them. When the support network is involved in the recovery process, the
chances of success increase significantly.

Eimy Valeria (Interviewer):

"It’s encouraging to know that there are effective treatments and that the adolescent brain
has the capacity to recover, though not without effort. Now, to wrap things up, I’d like each
of you, starting with Camila and Naidelyn, to leave us with a final message. What would
you say to other teenagers who are dealing with the temptation to use drugs or who have
already started using them?"

Camila (Interviewee 1):

The first thing I would say is that you are not alone. Often, when you start using drugs, you
feel like you’re the only one going through it, but the reality is that there are many others
who are experiencing the same thing. The first step is to acknowledge it and talk to
someone you trust, whether it’s a friend, a family member, or a professional. I understand
it can seem difficult, but it’s much easier to get out of a situation when you lean on others
for support. Drugs won’t give you what you’re really seeking; they only take you further
away from your true dreams and who you really are. Life has so much to offer you, but to
truly enjoy it, you need to take care of your health and your mind. Don’t get trapped by the
false sense that drugs are the solution. There are much healthier ways to face problems.

Naidelyn (Interviewee 2):

I would tell them to think about the future. Although it may seem like drugs offer an
escape or a way to cope with pressures right now, in the long run, they take away more
than they give. It’s not easy to resist temptation, but when you take a moment to consider
the consequences and what truly matters to you, drugs start to lose their power. If you’ve
already tried something, don’t feel trapped. You can always take a step back and change
your path. Seek support, whether it’s from your friends, family, or even professionals. No
one is alone in this, and there’s always a way out.

Eimy Valeria (Interviewer):

"Those are very powerful messages, Camila and Naidelyn. Thank you for sharing them.
Now, Dr. Dennis, Dr. Ximena, to conclude, what final message would you like to leave for
all the teenagers and parents listening to us today?"

Dr. Dennis (Psychiatrist):

My message would be that prevention is key. We need to start discussing these topics
from an early age, using language that teenagers understand and with information that
truly connects to their lives. If a teenager is already using substances, the most important
thing is not to stigmatize or reject them, but to offer support, understanding, and
professional help. Addiction is a disease, and like any other, it can be treated if addressed
in a timely manner. Recovery is possible, but it depends on the young person’s willingness
and the support they receive. Don’t hesitate to seek help if you need it.

Dr. Wendolyn (Neuroscientist):

I completely agree with Dr. Dennis. Additionally, I want to emphasize the importance of
understanding that the adolescent brain is extremely sensitive to the experiences it goes
through. Drugs, no matter how harmless they may seem at first, can have profound and
lasting effects. Teenagers have the potential to make more informed and healthier
decisions, but we need to support them with accurate information and emotional backing.
If you are a young person going through difficulties, remember that the brain has the
capacity to change and heal. And if you are a parent, educator, or friend, your support is
crucial in helping that young person find their way to recovery.

Eimy Valeria (Interviewer):

"That's a very important message: prevention, support, and understanding are key in this
process. I deeply thank each of you for your time, for sharing your knowledge and
experiences. This is an issue that affects many, and these types of conversations are
essential for raising awareness. I hope everyone listening was able to learn something
valuable today. Remember, change is always possible, and improvement is always within
reach. Thank you for joining us, and we’ll see you in the next episode of Growing Up Drug-
Free!"

Host 1 (Ximena Wendolyn):

Thank you for listening to this new episode of “Growing Up Drug-Free.” If you found this
topic interesting, we invite you to follow us on our social media for more content on issues
that affect us all. Don’t forget to share this episode if you think it could help someone else.
We’ll see you in the next episode!