Drugs

The problem with drugs that are illegal, or newer substances that people experiment with, is that no one really knows what the long term effects are.

Some individuals have instant extreme reactions – but it’s impossible to know who will be affected this way.

Drugs and your emotional well being

• Drugs can cause problems with your mind – some of these effects can be very frightening

• If you have depression, drugs can make it worse. Some people find that taking drugs actually makes them feel depressed.

• If you’re thinking of taking drugs to escape from how you’re feeling, you might want to speak to someone about your problems so you can find out about other things that could help. ChildLine (tel: 0800 1111) can offer advice on lots of issues.

• Find out more about the effects of drugs on your health, and lots of other information surrounding drugs, on Frank.

Other problems

• Driving: drugs affect the ability to drive safely
• Travel:  if you have a drugs conviction you might not be allowed to visit certain countries
• Work: even a minor drugs conviction could mean it’s hard to get a job, or an employer might dismiss you
• Studying: some universities, colleges and schools could expel you if you are caught with drugs
• Dangerous situations: to obtain drugs, you might have to mix with people who are violent or who don’t care what happens to you

Avoiding drugs

Try to work out in advance what to say or do if you are offered illegal drugs or other mind-altering substances. You may want to talk to your friends to let them know your feelings before you get into tricky situations.