Drugs and Alcohol

The use of drugs and alcohol by youth has dropped dramatically since 1990s; however, substance abuse remains a problem.  Education about the effects drugs and alcohol has on one’s body will help improve the choices made by young people.

Many youth who use drugs and alcohol do so because of peer pressure. Regardless of the reason or the frequency of use, there are many dangers, which include:

  • Affecting virtually every organ in the body, and prolonged use can lead to numerous preventable diseases, including addiction, disruption in normal growth and sexual development, life-long effects in brain development, and memory problems.

  • Lowering inhibitions and impairs judgment, which can lead to risky behaviors, including unwanted, unplanned, and unprotected sexual activity.

  • Decreasing motivation, energy, self-esteem, and discipline.

  • Causing defensiveness, moodiness, irritability, nervousness, paranoia, and violent temper.

  • Increasing the risk of physical and sexual assault and suicide.

Specifically for alcohol, there are a number of additional effects which include:

  • Decreasing coordination, slowing reaction time, dulling senses, and blocking memory.

  • Increasing the risk of injury from car crashes, falls, burns, and drowning.

  • Causing acne breakouts, giving you bad breath, and making you gain weight.

  • Overloading your body's system which can lead to death from alcohol poisoning.

The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. (NCADD) shares Frequently Asked Questions From Young People which includes questions such as:

  • Can you get addicted even though you only do it once in a while?

  • Does marijuana use lead to the use of other drugs?

  • Why do some people become addicted, while others don’t?

  • How do I know if I or someone close to me is addicted to alcohol or drugs?

Find out the answers to these and other questions at: www.ncadd.org/about-addiction/underage-issues/frequently-asked-questions-from-young-people

Are you concerned about how alcohol is affecting your life? Take this self-test: https://www.ncadd.org/get-help/take-the-test/self-test-for-teenagers

Both drugs and alcohol can lead to dangerous and life-threatening addictions. If you or a friend is experiencing problems with drugs or alcohol, get help now. Contact your local Safe Place program or speak to someone you trust.

Websites to Visit
Check out these websites for more information about drugs & alcohol:

 

Back to the Bullying resource page Continue to the Eating Disorders resource page