If you took the time to observe the average DHS student, you would discover that a significant portion of them are cradling Dunkin, Starbucks, and Marylou's beverages. While purchasing these drinks was once a "treat," it has become a daily habit, with copious amounts of money being spent. 

There’s a few reasons for this trend. For teenagers, getting a treat is an opportunity to do something social with friends. Additionally, when "everyone is doing it," influence easily takes over. Among younger children, sweet treats are a special thing and they look forward to, due to parents limiting access. However, upon entering high schooler, many students begin gaining their licenses and beginning part-time jobs. With these freedoms, buying fast food becomes more attainable, and it can quickly get out of control.

High schoolers also run on limited amounts of sleep and manage an absurdly busy schedule. This is observed especially among juniors and seniors who fill their time with sports, extracurriculars, and homework. Constant stress and sleep deprivation have high schoolers looking for a solution, and the determined solution is Dunkin Refreshers and Marylou’s Red Bulls. These drinks have a slight kick of caffeine in them, but also a high amount of sugar, leading to a spike in energy during the day. Subconsciously, teenagers have become convinced the drinks are a necessity to be productive and go about their daily schedules.

Places like Starbucks are hyper-aware of the habit of teenagers coming and going from their establishments multiple times per week. In response, they are beginning to take advantage of their youthful customers who may not think critically about how much money they are spending. These businesses have raised their prices significantly, knowing that that will not stop the flow of orders. Customers are willing to pay the extra money for the drinks because they think they cannot go without them, but what most do not realize is that the cost of the drinks adds up quickly.

How can high schoolers stop spending all their money on these drinks? 

First, they need to realize why they feel a need to buy a drink daily- whether it's pressure from friends, sleep deprivation, or just overall unawareness of how much they are spending. Then, students must realize that fast-food and drinks are a treat- and should remain a treat. Cutting down on this habit will help them with saving money and restricting both sugar and caffeine consumption, leading to improved overall health.

Tess Parke, Class of 2025, is a staff writer for the Dedham Mirror. She competes as a Maurauderon the hockey, lacrosse, and field hockey teams. She enjoys traveling, hanging out with friends and family, and running.