Sex, drugs, and rock n’ roll—to many, these three go together effortlessly. Movies and television have also played a part in shaping the public’s perception of drugs, with some shows even glorifying drug use. Drugs in pop culture have become a common theme, with many artists and celebrities openly talking about their experiences with drugs. However, it’s important to understand the true impact of drugs on individuals and society as a whole. The reality is that drugs are not just a celebrity or entertainment industry problem – they affect ordinary people from all walks of life.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with addiction, call NorthStar Clinical Services at 888.488.6153. Our drug addiction treatment program helps clients overcome their addiction and find a path to recovery. We believe that everyone deserves a chance to break free from the chains of addiction and live a healthy, fulfilling life.
Drugs in Pop Culture: A Brief U.S. History
In any generation, much of the youth’s identity is related to pop music of the time. Music can reinforce popular values and mainstream views.
In the 1940s, big band and jazz music exploded all around the world. During this time, marijuana and various opiates had been around for at least 20 years—but alcohol was definitely the most popular drug. “Cocktail hour” was a popular way to socialize. Tobacco was also typically featured in media. However, it was opiate addiction that took hold of America from the 1930s to the 1950s—along with the Harlem jazz scene and then with the Beatnik subculture.
Barbiturates & Benzodiazepines
In the 1950s, the recreational use of prescription medications started to soar. Barbiturates like Seconal and benzodiazepines like Valium were popular. However, amphetamines like Benzedrine were also widely mentioned in the culture and media of the time—especially by beat writers and poets.
In the 1960s, it’s been documented that the Beatles smoked marijuana in the middle of a press conference. In that same decade, amphetamines were still popular—but so were acid and psychedelics. A lot of this is credited to Timothy Leary and his message of “turn on, tune in, drop out.”
Cocaine & Crack Epidemic
In the 1970s and 80s, cocaine and its cheaper, more potent form, crack, became a major epidemic. This widespread drug use was depicted in movies like Scarface and television shows like Miami Vice. It also played a role in the rise of hip-hop music, with many artists rapping about their own experiences with drugs.
Addiction: A Health Condition
The Supreme Court declared that addiction is “a disease, not a crime” in 1963. In 1966, the Narcotic Addict Rehabilitation Act also endorsed the idea of rehabilitation and medical treatment for drug users.
While Americans continued to use prescription drugs like barbiturates and mood-altering drugs like LSD—and even plant-based drugs like psilocybin and cocaine—the pattern of drug use started to shift. Poly-drug abuse became popular well into the 1970s. Rock music and its related lifestyle supported this attitude to drugs. Songs like “Mr. Tambourine Man” and “With a Little Help from My Friends” seemed to question the American views on drug-taking back then.
At this point in American pop culture, the idea of substance abuse treatment and further help for people with addictions started to show up—not just references to drugs.
Pop Culture Today: Music and Club Drugs, Still Intertwined
Today, club drugs in pop culture are still connected. Music is an extremely influential form of expression and can produce highly elevated feelings when combined with the euphoria of drugs. Alcohol can produce this sort of euphoria, as well. It is not uncommon for people experiencing substance abuse to think that music is the only thing that understands them and how they feel.
Thankfully, substance abuse treatment these days has progressed to the point where professionals can also understand how alcoholics and addicts feel—enough to help in their recovery, at least.
Signs of Drug Addiction
Watching for the signs of drug addiction is paramount, especially after what we’ve discussed with drugs in pop culture. If you notice any behavioral or physical changes in yourself or a loved one, it’s important to seek help immediately. Some common signs of drug addiction include:
- Changes in appearance and personal hygiene
- Neglecting responsibilities and hobbies
- Sudden mood swings and changes in behavior
- Financial problems and borrowing money frequently
- Secretive or suspicious behavior
If you or someone you know is experiencing these signs, it’s important to seek help from a professional drug addiction treatment program. Remember, addiction is a disease, and seeking treatment is not a sign of weakness. It is a courageous step toward recovery.
Contact NorthStar Clinical Services Today to Begin Treatment
If you’re worried about drugs in pop culture and how they might affect you or someone you love, call NorthStar today at 888.488.6153 or contact our team online. Ask about our substance abuse treatment programs and other services that can help people on the road to recovery.
