Health Risks of Drug Use Substance Abuse Substance

Health Risks of Drug Use

Substance Abuse • Substance abuse is any unnecessary or improper use of chemical substances for non-medical purposes. • Illegal drugs – chemical substances that people of any age may not lawfully manufacture, possess, buy, or sell.

Substance Abuse • Overdose – a strong sometimes fatal reaction to taking large amount of a drug. • Tolerance – body becomes accustomed to drug, user needs more to achieve desired effect.

Effects of Drug Use • Psychological dependence • Physical dependence • Addiction

Three Brutal Realities of Addiction • 1. Addictions can become stronger that you. – Lose power of choice • 2. It’s not just about you. – Your behavior affects family and friends. • 3. Drugs destroy dreams. – Every aspect of your life is impacted – emotions, finances, relationships, grades, future

Roots of Addiction • • • 1. Insecurity 2. Peer Pressure 3. Painful experience 4. Rebellion 5. Escape 6. Curiosity

Consequences for the Individual • Stop pursuing interests and goals • Lowers inhibitions • Leading factor in teen depression and suicide • Increased violence, crime, accidental death

Consequences for Family and Friends • Stop spending time with friends who are drug free • Causes tension, anger, guilt in family relationships

Consequences for Society • • Drug-related crime and violence Lost work hours Higher health care costs and legal fees Law enforcement costs

Marijuana • One of the most widely used illegal drugs. • Considered a gateway drug – a drug that can lead the user to more dangerous drugs. • Contains more cancer causing chemicals than tobacco smoke.

Marijuana • Males – lowers levels of the male hormone testosterone and interferes with sperm production. • Females – increases levels of testosterone which can lead to infertility.

Marijuana • Increases the level of brain chemical dopamine, causes intense “high, ” then dramatic drop or “crash. ” • Slows mental reflexes • Can cause feelings of anxiety, paranoia, dizziness, or distorted perception.

Inhalants • Substances whose fumes are sniffed or inhaled to give effect. • Two harmful effects: • 1. Depress central nervous system • 2. Permanent loss of brain cells

Steroids • Synthetic substances similar to male hormones • Harmful effects of steroid use: • Mood swings • Violent behavior • Depression • Paranoia

Positive Addictions • Addictions do not have to be harmful. • Positive addictions can fill holes rather than drug use.

Positive Addictions • Examples –exercise, sports, music, hobbies, learning, family, faith, friends. • The key is making the right choices – who you spend your time with and how that time is spent.