If there is one thing everyone can agree on, it is the simple fact that the 1980s were insane. From an insurgence of heavy metal and punk music to a horde of colorful, bizarre lineup of kaleidoscopic clothing and hair pieces, the 80s seem like part of an alien landscape compared to today. While we rely on cell phones and interactive software, back in the 1980s, people had the innovations of stone-age computers and color TV. However, one other aspect of the 80s that stands out is the rampant drug use. Besides First Lady Nancy Reagan’s “Just Say No” campaign, a horde of famous faces (even the animated ones) were trying to get kids to understand that drugs are bad (no secret), in some very frightening or weird ways. Let’s take a closer look at some bizarre anti-drug PSAs from the 1980s.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
For many kids and teens across America, when these iconic, pizza-loving reptiles appeared on screen, eyes and ears were immediately locked on the screen. Since their debut in the 1980s, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have become a cultural phenomenon, so it only made sense to put them at the forefront of an anti-drug campaign. After all, when Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Donatello appear on screen to tell you “drug dealers are dorks,” you were definitely listening.
Peewee Herman
Overall, Peewee Herman’s show was bizarre enough, but imagine the look of shock on parents’ faces when he appeared on screen to talk to kids about crack. Although many celebrities jumped on First Lady Nancy Reagan’s bandwagon against this deadly drug, Paul Reubens’ appearance as his Peewee character was nothing short of odd.
Clint Eastwood
Are you truly surprised that this celebrity made it onto this list? Over the course of his career, Clint Eastwood has served as a voice of conservative justice, so it would only make sense that he would have taken part in an 80s drug campaign. Pairing up with First Lady Reagan in one commercial, the “Man with No Name” told drug dealers to “take a hike.” (Nothing more needed to be said.)
Seeking Treatment for Drug Addiction or Alcoholism
For individuals suffering from drug addiction and alcoholism, the path to healing can sometimes feel like a distant flicker of light in the darkness. Sometimes, you may feel like you are sinking into the muck and are unable to reach your prize. However, you must stay strong and be patient. With the right resources and a little bit of love for yourself, you can easily overcome your sickness and become healthy once more.
If you are suffering from a severe case of drug addiction or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
