Drugs - What Are The Dangers

Drugs - How They Effect Us

The word "drugs" has a negative association with it. When we hear the word drugs we think of illegal substances that mess with our heads and can make us addicted. However, it is important to understand that there are many drugs out there that are used in health care and are in fact beneficial to us. However, when most teens experience drugs or talk about drugs they are talking about the illegal ones. Drugs are everywhere - we see people doing them on T.V., read horror stories of celebrities that overdose and we see our own peers doing them. It is very important that teens be informed of the extreme dangers that are involved in the use of ANY type of illegal or legal drug use, and when these are used improperly.

How do drugs work?

Drugs are chemicals or substances that change the way our bodies work. When you put them into your body (often by swallowing, inhaling, or injecting them), drugs find their way into your bloodstream and are transported to parts of your body, such as your brain. In the brain, drugs may either intensify or dull your senses, alter your sense of alertness, and sometimes decrease physical pain. A drug may be helpful or harmful. The effects of drugs can vary depending upon the kind of drug taken, how much is taken, how often it is used, how quickly it gets to the brain, and what other drugs, food, or substances are taken at the same time.

Many substances can harm your body and your brain. Drinking alcohol, smoking tobacco, taking illegal drugs, and sniffing glue can all cause serious damage to the human body. Some drugs severely impair a person's ability to make healthy choices and decisions. Teens who drink, for example, are more likely to get involved in dangerous situations, such as driving under the influence or having unprotected sex.

And just as there are many kinds of drugs available, there are as many reasons for trying drugs or starting to use drugs regularly. Some teens take drugs just for the pleasure they believe they can bring. Many times, someone tried to convince them that drugs would make them feel good or that they'd have a better time if they took them.

Some teens believe drugs will help them think better, be more popular, stay more active, or become a better athlete. Others are simply curious and figure one try won't hurt. Others want to fit in. Many teens use drugs to gain attention from their parents or because they are depressed or think drugs will help them escape their problems. The truth is, drugs don't solve problems. Drugs simply hide feelings and problems. When a drug wears off, the feelings and problems remain - or become worse. Drugs can ruin every aspect of a person's life.