Summarize the following:
People try new things when they want something about their lives to be different. When people turn toward drugs or other addictive substances which can include alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine, among other things they focus on the presumed benefits of the changes they may provide, and not the potential harms. Some people try drugs because they are seeking to soothe or avoid physical or psychological pain. Others want to experience a sense of "escape" from their lives, for reasons ranging from trauma to boredom. They may use drugs in order to feel unique or "special," or in order to feel "normal." A UK study conducted at the turn of the new millennium indicated that the top five reasons for drug use included relieving depression and to feel intoxicated. In such cases, people are clearly focusing on the short-term benefits of temporarily changing their perceptions. Young people often have their first sip of alcohol, drag of a cigarette, or sexual experience based on the notion that "everyone else is doing it." This same type of peer pressure is often a major reason why they try using drugs as well. People are more likely to try drugs when they are in settings where it is considered commonplace or normal to do so. After all, however independent they may be, everyone on some level wants to "fit in." The UK drug use study mentioned elsewhere also lists "keep awake at night while socializing" and "enhance an activity" among the top five reasons for drug use. Especially among young people, the pressure to be the "life of the party" may factor strongly in the choice to try using drugs. People who lack strong support networks such as family, friends, organized activities, etc. that discourage drug use tend to be more likely to try drugs. It cannot be denied that people of all backgrounds and socioeconomic levels try and abuse drugs. For instance, some 50% of young people in the UK age 16-24 have tried illegal drugs. That said, factors like poverty, unsettled home environments, and lack of access to educational or employment opportunities or social services can increase the likelihood of drug use by removing apparent alternatives. The more reasons someone has to want to "escape," and the fewer alternatives that are within reach, the more likely he or she is to try legal or illegal drugs. Stressful environments clearly influence drug use, as nearly 97% of respondents in the UK study listed a desire to "relax" as their main reason for using. However, an environment that produces a sense of boredom can also feed a desire to experiment or rebel by trying drugs. Plenty of young, well-to-do people try drugs for such reasons, for instance. Each and every one of us is wired differently, and some of us are more predisposed to trying drugs and/or becoming addicted to them. This does not mean we have no say in the matter, though nobody must use drugs. It is simply easier for some people to get started than others. People who are more impulsive or prone to take risks are more likely to try drugs (or go hang-gliding, for that matter). Those of a more cautious or pensive nature are less likely, but of course not immune. People with low self-esteem, high stress, or signs of depression are also more susceptible to drug use.
Recognize that people want a change. Consider external pressures. Examine environmental factors. Look into personality traits.