Drugs
Drugs misuse can refer to anything from the occasional use of an illegal substance, to the recurrent abuse of a prescribed medicine.
It is most prominent in 18 to 25-year-olds, so during your time as a student you are likely to be aware of people misusing drugs. What may be less apparent are the dangerous impacts of this on their physical and psychological health.
Effects of drugs misuse
Although you may expect a particular effect from drugs such as cannabis, cocaine, or ecstasy, this is always temporary, and you would be most likely to experience a series of undesirable side effects, such as:
- depression
- increased body fat
- acne
- slowing in comprehension
- flu-like symptoms
- exhaustion
- paranoia
Furthermore, the use of illegal drugs could result in expulsion from academics and sports. If you were to face prosecution, you risk limiting the countries you can travel to, cutting your career options. It can even result in a prison sentence.
To learn about different types of drugs, the risk, the law and what to do in an emergency, and where to get help visit Know the Score.
Legal highs
Just because a drug is not yet illegal, it is not necessarily less dangerous. The process of classifying a drug takes time, but in the meantime, it can be just as dangerous as the range of illegal substances.
More often than not, they are mixed with illegal drugs and the true long-term effects on the body and brain cannot yet be known.
Performance enhancers and prescription drugs
If you were to aim to enhance or change your appearance, sporting, or academic abilities, by using a drug against medical advice, the negative effects on your physical health, mental wellbeing, and legal status can still apply.
Getting help giving up
If you are concerned about drug misuse in yourself or someone close to you, there are a whole host of people there to support you in addressing this. They will help you to make decisions, guide you through difficult times and provide helpful resources.
For free confidential drug information and advice call the Know the Score helpline on 0800 587 5879. Trained advisers will be there to talk to you 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you need further help, they will point you in the right direction.
There is also help, information, and advice available locally. You can find help in your area by visiting the Know the Score Directory of Local and Community Services or the Scottish Drug Services Directory.
Sometimes drugs use can be masking another problem and locating and addressing the source by talking to someone may be the first step.
Say no...
Say no firmly and clearly, but without making a big deal about it. Your friends will respect you more if you’re assertive. Take a look around – you’re not the only one worrying about what other people think of you. Try to focus on your own opinion of yourself.