Deciphering Drugs: Effects and Prevention.

By Anamari Dávila, 10th grade.

Today, the use of drugs has been normalized in society and this is concerning. But most people are not informed about the potential effects and consequences of getting involved in drugs. In 2022, there was an estimate of 284 million individuals from ages between 15 and 64 that have been reported for the use of drugs. This number is extremely high considering the amount of negative effects that are related to drug consumption. It’s important to learn insight into the various drugs, the effects and consequences they can lead to, this can also get you informed on the importance of decision making and ultimately, avoid the risk associated with drug use.

Drugs have different categories the most known are the depressants, stimulants and hallucinogens, these falling into legal and illegal drugs. Some drugs that are commonly used or “popular” globally include; alcohol, marijuana, heroin, steroids, cocaine, tobacco, and nicotine. Now these are just some of the drugs that are used, because even countertop medicine is considered a drug. It’s important to understand that drugs are not exclusively the ones listed before, as even countertop medicine is considered a drug.

Exploring the categories of these drugs; Depressants are substances that decrease arousal and stimulation, such as alcohol. Stimulants on the other hand are substances that speed up messages that travel through the brain and body, for example, nicotine, caffeine or cocaine. Hallucinogens, as implied by their name, are drugs that make you hallucinate, for example LSD and MDMA or ecstasy.

Engaging in drug use carries severe consequences for the human body, affecting various aspects of physical and mental well-being. It can alter perception, mess with your motor skills, influence bad eating habits, cognitive function and even sleep patterns. Health use caused by the abuse of drugs include, increase in heart rate and blood pressure and can create feelings of paranoia and anxiety. The long term use of any drug can contribute to serious health conditions such as schizophrenia, as well as a higher risk of lung, tongue and throat cancer, proved by Dr. Karthik Kumar, a medical professional who has experience in the denial management process of U.S. health care, states that 10-20 percent of smokers develop lung cancer.

The prevention of drugs is a very personal journey, especially for teenagers who are vulnerable to external influences. People can be persuaded into doing drugs out of fear of not fitting in or in finding ways to cope with anxiety. However, ways to effectively discourage drug consumption are possible. While there is no determined way to assure the prevention of drug use, several proactive steps can be taken, including resisting temptation and peer pressure, seeking assistance for mental health issues, assessing risk factors, and maintaining a well-balanced lifestyle.

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