But First, Coffee

It’s a rare day when you open up TikTok or Instagram Stories and see your fave influencers *without* a giant Dunkin’ iced coffee in hand. And for years, Starbucks’ ubiquitous cups have been seen as a status symbol—even considered an actual accessory.

- By Jessica D’argenio Waller, MS, CNS, LDN

Part of the success that launched the humble cup o’ coffee to cultural superstardom is the fact that “Starbucks brilliantly figured out how to turn coffee drinks into portable dessert,” says holistic psychiatrist Dr. Ellen Vora. Turning standard coffee—typically a morning beverage reached for by tired adults everywhere—into a treat piled high with whipped cream and a caramel drizzle sends a clear message that the caffeinated concoctions are appropriate for teens.

But the trouble with caffeine is that once you start, it can be difficult to stop. “It’s a drug that creates physiologic dependence. A few innocent Frappuccinos can quickly turn teens into people who suddenly need a daily caffeine fix,” says Dr. Vora.

According to the most recent data, approximately 73% of kids and teens regularly consume caffeine, whether that’s through a morning cuppa, an afternoon latte or a Red Bull pre-practice. But, like any drug (and yes, it *is* a drug), it’s not without side effects. Here’s how caffeine really affects teens—and what to do if you’re already hooked.

POUR YOURSELF A CUP OF…ANXIETY

Caffeine, the energy-giving compound found in coffee and energy drinks, is a naturally occurring drug that comes from plants. Without a doubt it promotes alertness and focus, but it also can ramp up anxiety, especially in people who are already prone to it.