Feel Free: The Viral Risky Drink Teens Are Chasing

Promoted online as a natural way to boost mood or energy, a new drink called “Feel Free” is quickly gaining attention among teens. While the small, discreet bottle may look harmless, the beverage contains kratom, a plant-based substance with effects similar to opioids. Despite being marketed to adults, teens are finding ways to get it, often without understanding the serious risks.

This SmartSocial guide will teach parents what "Feel Free" is, why students want to use it, and what they can do to keep their kids safe.

Feel Free: The Viral Risky Drink Teens Are Chasing

What are the dangers of Feel Free?

• Recently, there has been a surge in the Feel Free beverage's popularity among teens
• Marketed as a natural mood booster, the drink contains kratom, a plant-based substance with effects similar to that of opioids
• "Social media posts for Feel Free, made by Botanic Tonics, portray the little blue bottle as a midday pick-me-up, used by everyone from ordinary people to athletes" (Source: CBS News)
• While it can induce feelings of calmness or, conversely, a surge of energy, it also carries severe risks
• These include addiction, withdrawal symptoms, heart complications, and in extreme cases, even death
• The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned people not to use kratom because of possible harm it can cause

How are teens getting past the required age minimum?

• Despite the beverage being intended for sale strictly to individuals 21 and over, this hasn't deterred underage teenagers from attempting to procure it
• Reports have surfaced of teens lingering outside convenience stores or gas stations, asking adult strangers to purchase the beverage for them
• This behavior underscores a troubling level of desperation, hinting at the addictive nature of the drink

Why do teens want to use Feel Free?

• The compact and understated packaging bears a striking resemblance to a five-hour energy shot, which may enhance its allure and sense of legitimacy
• The "natural" label can give teens into a false sense of security, leading them to believe in the safety of the product simply because it is labeled as "natural" and promoted widely on social media

What can parents do?

• Parents should always communicate openly with their children about the inherent dangers of blindly following social media trends or consuming unapproved substances
• Emphasize the importance of discussing and approving any new product or trend is vital
• Understanding and acknowledging the deceptive nature of trends labeled as "natural" can safeguard young people from making potentially harmful decisions

Feel Free in the news

According to the lawsuit, “Kratom can produce opioid-like effects and carries risks including dependence, addiction, and withdrawal.” The lawsuit also states that kratom presents health risks, “particularly when consumed in concentrated amounts or in combination with other substances.” - Arizona Capital Times

Kratom is concerning to me...I’ve seen [kratom addiction] and treated it many times - Dr. Robert Levy, NBC News

Additional Resources for Parents

TikTok Blackout Challenge: What Parents Need to Know

Benadryl Challenge: What Parents & Educators Need to Know

Dusting TikTok Trend: What Parents Need to Know

Conclusion

The rise of the Feel Free drink is a reminder that not everything marketed as “natural” is safe, especially when it comes to substances that can alter mood or energy. Teens may be drawn in by clever packaging, social media hype, or the promise of a quick boost, but the risks are real and potentially life-threatening. By staying informed, setting clear expectations, and keeping conversations open, parents can help their children see past the marketing and make choices that protect their health and future.