Using drugs consciously

There is an idea that university is an ideal place for students to experiment with drugs. Although that might not be wrong, students should be educated on the risks associated with drug consumption before engaging in illicit activities.

BE A SMART USER If this is your first time, understand the type of drugs that you’re taking and try a small amount first. For instance, fentanyl is a common painkiller that is frequently mixed with illegal drugs, with a fatal dose listed at being two mg of the drug (but this can vary by person). Needless to say, you may want to avoid taking it. KidsHealth and HeretoHelp are great resources to learn more about different types of drugs. How you use drugs affects their potency, so keep this in mind when you are deciding between a joint or a bong.

DON’T SHARE ANY EQUIPMENT WITH ANYONE Contracting an illness from other individuals is the last thing you need.

ALWAYS BE ALERT, NO MATTER HOW EXPERIENCED YOU ARE WITH DRUGS Check if you have any drug allergies when you take in a new batch. For safety, know where the closest safety kits and emergency devices are. AEDs (Automatic External Defibrillators) and naloxone kits are kept in wall-mounted cabinets near the front desks of UBC residences. You should never use them alone. STUDY DRUGS AND MIXING You may be prompted to take Adderall or Ritalin to help you cram, but they will impact your long-term health and you may develop a dependence. Don’t try mixing different drugs either, unless you’re a professional physician. Be responsible.

REMEMBER THAT LESS IS MORE If you feel like the effects aren’t kicking in yet, wait it out. Don’t take more just because you’ve waited for 15 minutes and aren’t high yet. When you use too many drugs at one time, you risk an accidental overdose.

THERE’S ZERO SHAME IN SAYING NO You’re not lame if you refuse an offer or if you take a smaller dose than everyone else. Know your limits and boundaries, and don’t give in to peer pressure. If you aren’t comfortable with taking drugs, look them in the eyes and firmly say ‘No, thank you’.

FINAL WORDS: A REALITY CHECK It’s quite easy to get drugs and sometimes it may seem as though everyone is taking them or encouraging you to try them out. However, keep in mind that your experiences will be unique, and it is helpful if you are familiar with some common warnings and the realities of drug usage before attempting to use them. U