It’s not unusual for people to feel confused about taking drugs. You might be feeling pressure from your friends or classmates, or you might be curious about what using a drug would be like.
While movies, music, and T.V. shows can make drug use seem cool, fun, or even glamorous, there are also many negative side effects on drug use. Drugs can negatively impact your relationships, your mental and physical health, and your life in general. Drug use is a choice but it is important to understand the effects of drug use – both immediate and long-term – to your brain, body, and life.
Getting Help. If you’re using drugs and finding it hard to manage life and relationships, help is available. Start by talking with someone you trust, like a friend or family member, about your problem. You might also want to speak with a doctor or counselor or other mental health professionals all of whom can help you get professional treatment for your drug problem. Check out the Getting help for drug use fact sheet for more info.
Acknowledgement: This fact sheet was originally developed by youth and staff at ReachOut.com, a website that helps teens get through tough times.
For more information:
•The Nemours Foundation, Prescription drug abuse
•The Nemours Foundation, Drugs: What you should know
•The National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIDA for Teens
•The National Institute on Drug Abuse, Co morbid Drug Abuse and Mental Illness
