why
DO PEOPLE Before we go on about the effects of drugs on your
body, brain, and behaviour,
let’s talk for a little while about why people would even use them in the first place.
We’ve heard some people say that only stupid people use drugs, while others use drugs to look like a rebel. We think that it’s not that simple. People use drugs for a whole variety of reasons. If we could pinpoint one common theme running through most drug use, it would probably be this: people use drugs because they think it helps them deal with some of the more difficult parts of life. If that doesn’t make sense to you yet, it will. Keep reading: we’ve tried to answer some of the most common questions kids ask about drugs.
S
I guess I just to want to know how I’ll feel if I start using drugs like my friends do...
The mystery of drugs and how they can transform people’s feelings, moods, and behaviors is pretty interesting. Being curious is natural, and some people are willing to take great risks to satisfy their curiosity. The problem with satisfying your curiosity by trying drugs is that drugs are very unpredictable; you just never know what to expect from them.
24
Unfortunately, many young people who don’t plan on getting themselves into trouble by using drugs often find themselves knee deep in it.
S So, it’s okay to be curious?
Curiosity is natural, and you shouldn’t be ashamed of it. We believe that the best way to satisfy your curiosity about drugs is by learning about them instead of trying them. Most people who get really involved with drugs haven’t bothered to learn about them first, and we really don’t want that to happen to you. Please learn about all the risks and effects involved with using drugs before trying them. It could make all the difference.
healthyteens.ca
S My friends are drinking and
using drugs, and at times I feel left out. I ‘m feeling pressured to join them.
We all want to feel accepted by our friends, and sometimes we want to impress people who aren’t even our friends. This is especially true when we’re young. Between the ages of 12 and 19, friends and fitting in are a huge part of who we are. Suddenly, we might find ourselves doing things that are harmful or risky just to avoid standing out from our friends.
S Am I supposed to just ditch all of my friends?
By refusing to join in your friends drug-use, you are sending a powerful message: that you are confident enough not to be a follower, and that you respect your health and well-being. You don’t need to ditch your friends or even criticize them to make this point. You are allowed to make your own decisions about what you put into your body.
