Dangers of Drugs

Any form of drug addiction is a brain disease. Even though first time use may be voluntary, drugs change genes and brain circuitry, which alters human behavior. Once addiction develops, these brain changes interfere with a person’s ability to make voluntary decisions and lead to drug cravings, drug seeking and increased drug use.

Addiction to any drug may include these general characteristics:

• Feeling like one needs the drug to function, relax or have fun
• Giving up familiar activities like sports, homework or hobbies
• Sudden changes in work or school attendance and quality of work
• Adopting new habits in order to obtain drugs, like borrowing money or stealing
• Taking uncharacteristic risks like driving under the influence or risky sexual behavior
• Anger outbursts, acting irresponsibly or a dramatic change in attitude
• Deterioration of physical appearance and grooming
• Wearing sunglasses and/or long sleeves at inappropriate times
• No longer spending time with friends who don’t use drugs
• Engaging in secretive behaviors like frequent trips to storage rooms or restrooms
• Needing to use more of the drug to obtain the same effects
• Talking about drugs all the time and pressuring others to use
• Feeling exhausted, depressed, hopeless or suicidal

Legal Drugs

Over the counter drugs:
Drugs that don’t require a prescription, like aspirin and caffeine, have health benefits but they can be dangerous if overused.

Medications

Women should always consult their medical provider before consuming more than the recommended dosage of any drug, including drugs that are sold over the counter.

Instructor Tips:
Inform participant of the extreme dangers created by abusing drugs, especially while pregnant.