Substance Use and Abuse

 

When used appropriately, drugs can have positive effects on people’s lives. For example, using antibiotics to treat infections, insulin to manage diabetes, and antidepressants to treat depression can be highly beneficial uses of drugs.

 

However, drug abuse—whether the drugs are legal or not—has devastating effects on people, their families and friends, and their communities. The effects of these drugs can be especially long-lasting, or even permanent, for young people because they affect both physical and brain development. In worst-case scenarios, they can cause permanent brain damage or even death.

 

So why do young people take them? For two main reasons: The drugs initially feel very good in a variety of ways, and peers exert pressure to take them. Depending on the drug, the user can feel euphoric, loose, popular, powerful, smart, or lots of other pleasurable feelings. The problem, though, is that those feelings are false and don’t last after the drug has worn off, which causes people to want to take them again.

 

Before long, the user becomes physically and/or psychologically dependent on the drug (addicted). In the meantime, the drug itself can wreak physical harm on the body and mind. The best option is to never take these drugs in the first place.

 

Below is a list of some of the most commonly abused drugs. Click the links to learn more about the drug:

 

The number of drugs available to young people is large. Because each drug produces different effects, in different ways, treatment for addiction depends on the drug being used. For some helpful resources to deal with drug abuse, see these websites:

 

  • The National Institute on Drug Abuse provides a list of links to books and websites for various age groups as well as a poster that reveals the not-so-pretty effects of drugs on the body.
  • NIDA for Teens is a comprehensive website that explains the science of drug abuse to teens. It provides videos, a blog, games, downloads, and experiments. In addition, the site provides resources for parents and teachers to help young people learn about the science behind drug addiction.
  • Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) provides tools for young people to help them avoid making all kinds of destructive decisions, including drinking and driving, taking illicit drugs, and more.

 

These resources are provided for information purposes only and are not intended to replace professional medical, health, or legal advice.   Please consult your doctor, mental health professional or lawyer for advice that is specific to your needs.  SCC, its officers, directors, staff and attorneys hereby disclaim any responsibility for, or any liability resulting from, the use of these resources.