Alcohol, weed, dxm and heroin can be used for escaping reality... (Although I have never done H). Most other things I do to feel good or be with and talk to friends and have fun.
I have tried most of the drugs I have had access to at least once. I try to be a responsible user and I try to keep my good friends out of trouble and safe (while having a great time at the same time!)
When I do drugs to escape reality, it is mostly because I feel bad/sick/tired a lot of the time. I currently have some health problems (even though I’m only 17!) Don't worry I think I know the source of the health problems and will probably fell a lot better when I have time to address these problems (after I get out of school)
Some drugs help me be an active, outgoing extrovert. I have finite energy and finite patience for some people.
I haven't done drugs to escape from reality in awhile. IMO doing drugs too often or to escape reality is a sign of addiction/desperation. Not that I'm a saint when it comes to drug/alcohol use. I have my binges and make irresponsible decisions. I have forgotten a couple of days at one point

Drugs have the capacity for good and evil.
I've decided that if my life sucks, I will reson out why it sucks and what I can do to change it. I can't drink or smoke or snort my problems away. I have too much self control and potential to allow drugs to control me.
I don't NEED drugs to function, but drugs/alcohol will always hold a special place in my life. Getting messed up sometimes provides a balancing force in my life and changes my thoughts/attitude's when sober.
A night of hard parting is often followed by a day of quiet reflection and insight.