Drug Use – The Facts
The use of illicit drugs is one of the biggest problems facing our society today. People of all ages are falling victim to this epidemic, and it seems to be something that no one is able to slow down, let alone stop. There are many illicit drugs out there, some worse than others, that people can abuse or become addicted to. Although these drugs are illegal and anyone found in possession of them can be arrested or even spend time in jail, they seem to be readily available in all cities and all neighborhoods. Drug addiction is not limited to any one age, race, or socio-economic group. Anyone can fall into this trap, and this can have a terrible effect on not only their lives, but the lives of those around them.
Drug Use Facts - The New Drug That is Causing Damage Around the World
Ice is a relatively new illicit drug that is creating shockwaves around the planet. It is a form of amphetamine – it’s technical name is crystal methamphetamine. “Amphetamines are psychostimulant drugs and their primary effect is to speed up the activity of the brain and nervous system. The user's heart and breathing rate increase and they may experience increased energy, alertness and confidence. Appetite may be suppressed and they may become talkative and excited. The less sought after effects include heart palpitations, anxiety and irritability. At higher doses, amphetamine can cause irregular heartbeat, headaches, dizziness and panic attacks. Long term, heavy amphetamine use can lead to insomnia and malnutrition. Psychological and emotional problems such as depression, paranoia and extreme aggressiveness can develop. In some cases, users may experience amphetamine psychosis - a psychological state, similar to schizophrenia - characterised by paranoid delusions. Amphetamine overdose can cause stroke, heart attack, seizure, coma or death.” - http://www.aic.gov.au/research/drugs/types/amphetamines.html
Drug Use Facts – Heroin
Heroin is widely known as a very dangerous drug. It is a highly addictive opiate that is very difficult to give up. Those who take it feel a heightened state of relaxation, and this drug causes people to forget about the world around them. Due to this, it is very popular with people who are in a bad situation in their lives, such as those suffering from abuse or those caught up in prostitution or other sexual services. Heroin is most commonly injected directly into the veins, and it is necessary to continue to inject the drug regularly to stave off the feelings of withdrawal. People who are addicted to heroin often find it hard to hold down a regular job and resort to theft and other illegal activities in order to fund their addiction. There is a program that can help people to wean themselves off heroin, however they need to be committed to it in order for it to work, and it is unfortunate that many people die from heroin overdoses before they can get the help that they need.
Drug Use Facts – Ecstasy
Ecstasy is often called the “party drug”. When taken, it stimulates the brain and the body, causing the user to have a heightened sensory experience. Those who use it report that they feel extremely happy – hence the name of the drug – and that they see the world in a different light. Ecstasy is commonly taken by young people when they are going out to party of a night time – it is something that is becoming as popular as drinking for the youth of today. Ecstasy is commonly thought of as being much safer than other drugs. While it is technically less addictive than Ice or Heroin, Ecstasy is still a dangerous drug. It’s main danger is that it can cause psychosis in some people. Prolonged use of ecstasy can damage the brain, making it harder for the brain to produce serotonin. This can lead to depression and other psychological conditions. Ecstasy has caused very few fatalities, and the deaths in which it has been involved are often caused by another factor such as drinking too much or too little water, or the ecstasy being mixed with another dangerous substance.
These are just a handful of the illicit drugs that are available in our cities right now. Illicit drugs are running rampant and there seems to be little that police and politicians can do about it. If you have children, or friends who are curious about drugs, the best thing that you can do is to make sure that they are aware of the real risks that are involved in drug use. While some drugs are viewed as recreational, they all carry very real risks that can lead to psychological problems, physical problems and death. The best way to combat drugs is simply to stay away from them completely.