Caffeine, exercise help students through day

When we do use terms relating to addictions that are separate from drug and alcohol abuse, it is usually in jest. Labels like "chocoholic" are followed by automatic laughter at an overused joke. With humor and distaste we separate ourselves from the idea that for some, using illegal substances isn't necessary to qualify as an addict.

Although not nearly as physically damaging, some who are addicted to legal behaviors have similar symptoms as those hooked on harder substances -- a craving, followed by irritation or failure to effectively function if not satisfied. The balance of the day is disturbed if the addiction is not filled, having an impact on the mood and ability of the user.

Otto Gilbert, a recent graduate of West High, says that without gum he sometimes feels fidgety. "It is a good way to cover up anxiety if you're feeling stressed," Gilbert says.

Of course, an addiction to caffeine or sugar is not an automatic indication of later addictions to harder substances, but people with addictive personalities are more likely to develop deeper compulsions. Avoiding addiction is not always a matter of willpower or intelligence, but rather one of self-awareness and of understanding one's tendencies.

Possibly the most common addiction is that of caffeine. While some just feel more alert after sipping their morning cup of coffee, others depend on the jolt to wake up, go to school or even finish homework after a busy day. Some fill the need for caffeine with alternatives to coffee.

Comedian Chris Rock speaks about prominent soda addictions saying, "Actually, I think all addiction starts with soda. Every junkie did soda first. But no one counts that. Maybe they should. The soda connection is clear. Why isn't a presidential commission looking into this? Or at least some guys from the National Carbonation Council."

For me, drinking Diet Coke has become part of a routine. I work on my homework and crack open a can of Coke. Without my daily dose of caffeine, I get tired too early in the evening to finish everything I must complete for the following day.

For some, the caffeine dose in coffee or soda pop is insufficient for their energy requirements. Michael Lawlor, a recent graduate of West High, finds the new 5-hour Energy drink to be far more satisfying.

"I like 5-hour Energy because it's an instant pick-me-up. It's like, when I made a stupid decision about staying up late the night before a job interview, all I do is take a swig and my mistakes go away. It makes everything better. Of course, when I don't drink it, I have to face my screw-ups and the actual reality of my situation. It kind of makes me feel invincible," says Lawlor.

Although more time-consuming, many rely on the endorphin rush provided by heavy exercise to make it through the day. While exercise is good for all and essential to a healthy lifestyle, some feel a more compulsive need to be active. Madigan Stanley, a senior at West High and a competitive cross-country skier, feels that exercise is a great way to relieve stress. She admits that some people involved in competitive activities take it too far.

"It's important not to lose sight of other important aspects of life, to branch out and try something different every once in awhile," Stanley says.

Most who feel that they are addicted to caffeine or endorphins believe that with a less stressful lifestyle they would not be so dependent on their addictions. Nowadays, with the increased pressure for high school students to perform, most have found ways to consistently keep focused. Whether it be caffeine to make the days longer and more productive, or going for a long run to relieve stress, high-achieving students are finding ways to get through the ups and downs of high school.

Lindsay Cason is a senior at West High.