Drug Users’ Behaviors and Social Media Communication: A Study on Bangladesh

This study explores the social media and drug users communication behaviors in Bangladesh, a country witnessing rising substance abuse rates among young adults. With the increasing integration of digital platforms into everyday life, social media has become a significant tool for drug users—not only for personal expression but also for networking, coping, and even accessing illicit substances. This research examines how drug users in Bangladesh communicate on platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, TikTok, and Instagram, focusing on themes such as identity formation, group affiliation, emotional expression, and drug-related content sharing. Drawing on qualitative interviews and content analysis of public social media posts, the study identifies key behavioral patterns, motivations, and the role of digital anonymity in shaping communication practices. Results reveal that social media often acts as a double-edged sword—facilitating emotional support and community-building while also enabling risky behaviors and promoting drug culture. The findings contribute to understanding the socio-digital landscape of drug users in Bangladesh and call for policy measures and digital literacy campaigns aimed at harm reduction.