World · 26 August 2026

Chinese teens using prescription drugs to escape study pressure

Chinese teenagers are turning to prescription drugs, often bought online, to cope with intense academic pressure. Many find the “pharmaceutical high” offers a brief escape, but it can lead to serious side effects like hallucinations. Experts say China's competitive education system and limited mental health support are driving the problem.

By BriefTea Editorial · 26 August 2026 at 1:58

Reported by BBC · How we write briefs

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Why are teens taking drugs? Why is mental health limited? What are the side effects?

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