What I'm saying is that to a certain level, humanity will always want to change their consciousness. This has nothing to do with suffering in the world.
Of course, suffering then leads to people seeking out quick fixes. But you know what? If you're suffering from chronic pains, and medical experts can't help you (as has been the case for many people), taking some of these drugs (like THC) is highly preferable to not having anything.
I wouldn't really call it changing consciousness but rather just escapism. A lot of people will do drugs because they are trying to escape their lives. Once addicted they are then trying to escape withdrawal.
Of course, suffering then leads to people seeking out quick fixes. But you know what? If you're suffering from chronic pains, and medical experts can't help you (as has been the case for many people), taking some of these drugs (like THC) is highly preferable to not having anything.