Steroids are prevalent today, particularly among teenagers seeking to become stronger. While steroids can promote muscle growth and enhance athletic performance, their use comes with significant risks, especially for adolescents whose bodies are still developing.
Steroids, also known as “corticosteroids” or anabolic steroids, are a class of synthetic substances that resemble the hormone cortisol produced naturally in our bodies. They can be prescribed by doctors to treat various medical conditions such as inflammation, autoimmune disorders, and many more. Steroids work by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune system’s response.
However, when people refer to “steroid use” without specifying further context, they often mean anabolic steroids. Anabolic steroids are artificial variations of testosterone (the male sex hormone) that promote muscle growth and enhance athletic performance. These types of steroids have been abused for non-medical purposes like bodybuilding or improving physical appearance but come with significant health risks if used improperly.
Moreover, when speaking to students on the campus of Coral Springs High School, the majority expressed their disagreement with the use of steroids, claiming that it is useless and doesn’t resolve anything. This statement holds an element of truth.
In addition, I interviewed basketball player Craig Bryant, and he stated, “Steroids are not good for you, and damage you more than they help you”. Using steroids or any drugs is a bad idea.
As teenagers, we often seek validation from the internet, observing and comparing ourselves to what we believe we should look like. This pressure is one of the reasons why teens turn to steroids or any type of drugs that can improve their self-esteem.
According to “Steroids Fast Facts,” 4% of high school seniors in the United States have abused steroids at least once in their lifetime, and 1.4% have abused steroids in the past month. While these percentages may seem small, they represent a significant number of students – approximately 20 in a typical senior class.
It is crucial to emphasize that the utilization of any form of steroid without adequate medical supervision can result in significant adverse effects on both physical and mental well-being. It is important to note that using any type of steroid without proper medical supervision can lead to serious side effects on both physical and mental health.
However, Steroids do promise quick results in achieving the desired physical appearance, leading many teens to feel pressured by social media, coaches, adults, and peers. However, this perceived “shortcut” to success is an illusion, as it comes with serious health risks.
Mr. Johnson, a certified science teacher at Coral Springs High School asserted, “Using steroids to enhance strength and speed is a misguided choice for both teenagers and adults.” Taking steroids is a big and life-changing decision to make.
Furthermore, teenagers using steroids during their development stage can disrupt natural hormone production, leading to health problems such as stunted growth, reproductive issues, cardiovascular damage, liver toxicity, and emotional turmoil.
Finally, steroids are not a healthy way to boost self-esteem and can cause severe long-term damage. Teenagers who use steroids often experience social isolation, academic decline, and legal consequences.
