Substance Abuse

Drugs can numb your memory, impair your judgment and make it impossible to feel good or function without them. Even drugs that are not physically addictive--meaning that your body needs the drug in order to function--can make you emotionally dependent. Once you become used to the feelings you get from drugs, you may find it harder and harder to cope with normal everyday ups and downs without them. People who combine drugs dramatically multiply the chances of having a bad reaction.

Did You Know?

--Marijuana smoke does more damage to your body than cigarette smoke. It has more tar than tobacco and can influence your hormones.

--When a substance is not legal its safety is not being regulated, you have know way to know if it was "laced" or "spiked" until you use it.

--Chemicals found around your home were not meant to be sniffed, they may seem harmless but can be very dangerous, cause brain damage and be deadly.

--Drugs that are ingested through the nose ("snorting") may find that it makes their nose bleed and can even "burn" a hole inside of the membranes of the nose.

--Almost all recreational drugs are illegal and use carries heavy penalties -- you can go to prison if you are caught. Using drugs, having drugs in your possession, giving drugs away, buying or selling drugs may mean getting arrested, going to jail and having a prison record.

--Getting high on lighter fluid and hairspray has become a new high for teens--butmake no mistake, it can kill you.

--The number one "crossover drug" is nicotine, not marijuana or cocaine.

Saying No To Drugs and Alcohol

Many teens find themselves in positions where their peers are pressuring them to take part in activities they know lead to trouble. Tell your friends that you don't want to smoke, drink or use drugs. There is no need to offer explanations or excuses--a simple "no" will work. Some of your friends are bound to understand and will stick by you and others may not; if they don't, they're probably not the friends you need in the first place. If you're having a hard time voicing your own opinions, talk to your other friends or family for support of your beliefs. Find out those who truly care about you. Your good friends will not want you to get into trouble or to do any harm to yourself.

An important part of growing up is deciding what's important to you, how you're going to act and what you're going to do with your body. Growing up involves thinking for yourself and taking responsibility for your actions, even if it means leaving behind certain friends who aren't willing to be as responsible or independent. Remember, there are plenty of other people who feel as you do. It is not cool to do drugs, it’s dangerous to your health and illegal. Your future will depend on these chocies--try getting into college or getting a decent job with a police record--it won't be easy. Before long you'll discover that the rewards of good health, self-confidence and better friendships are worth all of the trouble you went through to get them.

Get informed, make decisions for yourself and take care of your body; one day you'll be glad you did. To give yourself the best chance to develop a sharp mind and body, don't do drugs of any kind.