Drug use and abuse is an ongoing problem for many people. Unlawful and excessive use of prescription and illegal drugs can cause the body and mind irreparable harm. People use drugs to alter their brain’s and body’s functioning. Each type of drug affects people in different ways, but there is no doubt that all of them are harmful. Sometimes, drugs can actually be deadly, causing permanent physical damage or even death. As parents and educators, it is essential that we not only educate ourselves about the dangers of drug use but also our children. This is a guide to what kids need to know about drugs.
Medicines: Legal Drugs
Scientists design prescription medication to help people in pain or those dealing with mental or emotional issues. While these drugs can often be extremely helpful to those who really need them, they can also be dangerous for people who either take them too often or take too many at the same time. Technically, prescription drugs are legal, but only for the person to whom a doctor prescribes the medication. If someone takes medication that is not prescribed to them, not only can it be dangerous, but it is also illegal. If you happen to have prescription drugs at home, be sure they remain out of reach of children and locked away where children cannot get them.
Cigarettes and Alcohol
Drinking and smoking are two of the leading causes of death in the United States. Smoking is extremely dangerous and is one of the leading causes of heart disease and cancer. Alcohol abuse is not only dangerous to the liver, heart, and brain, but drinking is often the cause of vehicle accidents resulting in death. Both alcohol and cigarettes are usually the first things kids try, mostly because they are more easily accessible than “street drugs.” Peer pressure is also the leading cause of use of both cigarettes and alcohol.
Illegal Drugs
Illegal drugs consist of any number of different substances, including marijuana, cocaine, LSD, “mushrooms,” and crystal methamphetamine. Of course, these are just a few. If someone is caught carrying, using, or attempting to sell illegal drugs, there are serious legal consequences. Out of all types of drugs, illegal drugs are often the most dangerous because there is no way to know what is actually in them. You may be wondering what kids need to know about drugs that are illegal since this category is so broad. Essentially, it is imperative that parents talk to their children about the implications of using illegal drugs. Aside from being arrested or having to pay fines, most people who are caught with illegal drugs also must serve a prison sentence.
Why Are Illegal Drugs Dangerous?
Drugs that are illegal are dangerous in many different ways. A lot of illegal drugs are known as synthetics, which means that they consist of a number of different chemicals. These chemicals can strongly affect the brain and are also highly addictive. There are also real dangers of buying illegal drugs. Most people who sell illegal drugs tend to be more dangerous and participate in criminal activity. Illegal drugs can cause the user to crave more. This encourages them to do things they might not normally do, like buy them from strangers or steal in order to obtain money to buy them.
Why Do People Use Illegal Drugs?
There are many theories as to why people opt to use illegal drugs. One of the most common reasons is because they give off a more potent high or feelings of euphoria as opposed to alcohol. Most illegal drugs are very addictive, which usually leads the casual user to become more of an addict and develop extremely addictive behavior. While each person who uses illegal drugs may have different reasons for using them, many people opt to use them in order to escape the stress and pressures of everyday life. Past abuse, mental issues, or emotional trauma can also be a reason some people turn to using illegal drugs. Other instances include teenagers wanting to feel accepted and to fit into their peer group.
What Kids Need to Know About Drugs
What kids need to know about drugs varies. It’s dependent on their age, maturity level, and the environments they spend the most time in. Only you as a parent can make the call about what they need to know and when. Luckily, Morningside Recovery is available to offer guidance. Reach out to us at 855-631-2135 for more information about our rehab programs and addiction treatment services.
By: Michelle Conway