write a speech on youth and drug abuse

Speech on Drug Abuse in English in Simple and easy Words

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Speech on Drug Abuse: Drug abuse has become the most common thing these days and many youth are destroying their lives by getting addicted to drugs. It’s very important to sensitize our youth on the subject of drug abuse. They are ruining the lives of our youth and putting their future in a great darkness. The use of drugs is making their lives vulnerable and prone to destruction. Therefore, it becomes very important to raise awareness about it amongst our youth and prevent them from succumbing to it. The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is celebrated annually on June 26th it serves as a significant platform for raising awareness and addressing the critical issue of substance abuse. You can even prepare a speech on drug abuse and deliver it on various occasions and platforms.

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Long and Short Speeches on Drug Abuse in English

For your help, we have posted below some short speech on drug abuse as well as long speech on drug abuse, which will give you a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter and help you create an impressive brief to impress upon your audience and bring a change in society.

Speech on Drug Abuse – Speech 1

Dear Students – Warm Greetings to all of you! I welcome everyone to the school seminar hall.

Today, we are here to discuss about the fatal consumption of drugs and how it is destroying the lives of our youth. But before the discussion begins, I would like to deliver a short speech on drug abuse and would like to enlighten our students on this sensitive subject matter.

Drugs, as we all know, are an illegal matter which some people drink, smoke, inject or eat for the mental as well as physical effects that it leaves. There are several students who consume drugs out of fun or for various other reasons. People who deal in the selling of drugs create a network and mainly target students in order to make them addicted to drugs. Initially, the drugs are sold to the students for free and gradually when they get addicted to it, they start buying and consuming it. In fact, the students also eventually become a part of their network and start dealing in it.

It is observed that students start consuming drugs out of stress or unfair expectations of their teachers as well as parents. Lack of emotional support and disorder in their families make them vulnerable and increase their dependency on drugs. They use it in order to calm down their state of mental agitation. Other than this, it is poverty that compels some students to become a part of the selling and dealing network of drugs and derive their pocket money. Therefore, it becomes like a vicious circle of the drug addicted students from which they seem to find no escape unless the society comes for their rescue.

Sadly, the students fail to realize that the consumption of drugs has a severe impact on their physical and mental health, such as they start experiencing mental disorder, their intelligence level decreases, experience deadly diseases and untimely death. When one completely succumbs to the temptation of drugs, it gets very difficult for him/her to recover from its impact except in the centers for drug rehabilitation where they gain a new life, but which involves a high cost. In fact, there are many cases too where even rehabilitation centers fail because of the worst condition of the patients.

I, therefore, request all the students to refrain themselves completely from the consumption of drugs before it destroys their health, future and takes away their lives. Don’t even try to touch or come close to them. Drugs can even destroy a complete generation. So think wise and act smart. Shape your future which seems bright and full of achievements. The drugs that doctor prescribes to his/her patients must only be taken in order to combat a specific disease otherwise the government must take strict measures to ban its illegal trade in the market and save our youth from destruction.

I want to conclude by saying that drug abuse should be an absolute ‘No’ for all and I sincerely hope that our students will never ever try to consume drugs and will completely stay away from its use. Remember that our country needs you as you are its future and harbinger of progress.

Speech on Drug Abuse – Speech 2

Good Morning Friends – Welcome to the 77 th campaign for drug addiction ban.

It feels extremely great to see how the members of our organization are working hard in order to make every day count and reach out to the masses for spreading awareness about the drug addiction or drug abuse. Since day one and today it’s the 77 th campaign of our organization – we haven’t really ever thought that we will grow this big, i.e. currently we have more than 200 people working for us and have gained a mass appeal. The response so far has been really good and we have been able to transform the life of the people for good, who earlier have been living under the influence of drugs.

So today I would further like to appeal to the masses to refrain themselves from using drugs and live a healthy life. Drug addiction or drug abuse is described as an excessive dependency on a substance, which inevitably becomes the compulsive need of the person using it. This need becomes so compulsive that without that substance the person cannot live his life like a normal person does. And, when such a substance is stopped being available in the market then that person is believed to be suffering from substance withdrawal.

The addiction of drugs has become one of the serious social problems in many developing as well as developed countries and it undeniably proves to be the principal obstruction in the all-round development of the people, society, country and the world at a large. Our country is a progressing country and it is already afflicted with so many other grave problems, such as unemployment, poverty and illiteracy that the problem of Adolescence and Drug abuse makes the situation even worse here as it further makes our economy regressive by destroying the lives of its youth.

Even sadder is the fact that several drug addicts cannot afford to make a purchase of expensive drugs so much so that in the end they have to resort to such activities as theft in their homes. These people are not born thieves, but their addiction to drugs makes them heinous and propels them to commit crimes in order to feed their body with drugs.

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People can become addicted to drugs because of various reasons, some of which are mentioned below:

1. In order to de-stress themselves

When a person is under the influence of drugs, he/she forgets everything and enters into a trance-like state. However, it is only later that people realize that the use of drugs is only aggravating the problem and not really helping them in getting rid of the stress.

2. Out of peer pressure

Many times, people start taking drugs because their friends are addicted to them. However, once they start taking it, it becomes really difficult for them to get rid of this habit.

3. Style Statement

Many teenagers these days think that the habit of drinking, smoking and even drug addiction is what helps them look cool and create a style statement in the front of others. However, it’s only when these people get trapped in its vicious circle that they realize the irreparable they have caused to their lives.

Teenagers and every person for that matter must understand that the habit of drug abuse not only greatly affects their body and mind, but also finishes their bright future. So we should strictly say ‘No’ to drugs and save our lives as well the lives of our loved ones by spreading awareness in our surroundings.

Speech on Drug Abuse – Speech 3

Respected Principal, Vice Principal, Teachers and My Dear Fellow Students – Warm Welcome to all of you! Today, standing in the prayer hall I would like to take this opportunity to deliver a brief speech on Drug Abuse.

I request our principal and teachers to kindly allow me to speak on this subject as it is a high time to enlighten our youth about the dangerous habit of drug abuse. In the present times, there are many factors that push a man to resort to drug addiction and make his/her life miserable. The most glaring factors are rapid industrialization and urbanization, which have given birth to a new kind of behavior among the youth of today, i.e. individualism and permissiveness. People these days prefer nuclear families and in many cases both parents are working, as a consequence of which they become less forbearing in comparison to their previous generations. People are living their lives in isolation and avoid getting social because the stress in the modern times has become way too much to make them withdrawn figures in their personal lives.

In the end, such people become involved in the habit of drinking, smoking, drug addiction, etc. Besides, when a child doesn’t feel satisfied at home or when he/she is deprived of love, affection and care of his/her parents, a feeling of discontentment comes in and such children become prone to drug addiction and ruin their lives completely. What is more painful to see that if the drug addicted people are not allowed the use of drugs, then he/she suffers from bouts of depression, painful and uncontrollable convulsions as well as vomiting!

It is an obvious fact that the addiction of drugs is ruining the path of progress of many individuals and our nation as a whole so much so that proactive measures need to be taken in order to keep a check on this destructive habit of our youth. The most significant step in this direction would be about spreading awareness amongst the people on a national scale.

Our Indian government has in fact formulated various campaigns and even has been able to gain success in this direction. The individuals whose family and friends suffer from the addiction of drugs are requested to approach the rehabilitation institutions and camps in order to provide treatment to the addicts.

Drug abuse should not be tolerated and be completely banned as a taboo. However, it is not advised to torture the addict or treat him/her inhumanely for this habit because if you try and convince the person about its treatment then he/she may willingly choose to opt for it and get rid of this addiction by admitting himself/herself at the rehabilitation centers.

A person who has become the victim of drug abuse is forced by his/her bodily conditions to carry on with the addiction, but sooner they realize the bad impact of this habit. All that these people need is a helping hand and therefore we should provide encouragement as well as support to these people in making these addicts come back to their normal lives and lead a healthy life.

Speech on Drug Abuse – Speech 4

Hon’ble Principal, Vice Principal, Fellow Colleagues and My Dear Students – Warm Greetings to one and all!

Firstly, I would like to extend a note of thank you to our respected Principal and Vice Principal for gracing this speech ceremony with their presence and giving their approval too. And, to all the fellow teachers – as without your support this event wouldn’t have been possible. I would also like to congratulate our dear students for making the desired arrangement on a short notice.

The topic for today’s speech is Drug Abuse! I have chosen to speak on this topic because these days I observe many campaigns being run on Drug Abuse in order to teach the people about its ill effects. As a teacher, it also becomes my responsibility to help them spread the message wherever we can and most importantly beginning from our very own school.

Drug abuse is considered one of the banes of our so called civilized society. It has affected all the sections and regions of our society. People with the illicit use of drug are found everywhere, i.e. in urban and rural regions, among men and women, among rich and poor. But it is exceedingly practiced by our young girls and boys living in hostels in nearly all technical and educational institutions.

The grave situation of drug abuse is prevalent across the world and unfortunately our very country India is more strongly affected by it. Our country is a transit country because it is placed between the Golden Triangle consisting of Burma, Thailand and Cambodia, including Golden Crescent consisting of Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iran – the places where most of the drugs, chiefly heroin and opium are produced. Pakistan is undeniably the nucleus of the world when it comes to any unlawful activity and as far as the drug production is concerned – it is the hub. In fact, a big proportion of drugs go by India in order that it can be exported to other countries.

This happens through the network of drug mafia who further has connections with formidable smugglers as well as terrorists. In the process, unfortunately several young men as well as women become victims to this diabolic activity. Pakistan with the help of ISI is involving itself in a proxy war in the region of Kashmir against India through money earned with the help of drug mafia. Thus, terrorism and drugs share very strong connections.

This addiction to drug is so deadly that people fall prey to its use and become almost a slave. If a person doesn’t get its regular dose, then that person starts feeling a lack of it and becomes depressed with severe pain which even leads to a lack of sensation in arms and legs. Drugs are of various kinds, such as heroin, opium, charas, ganja, etc.

There are some injections too which lead to a state of severe drowsiness. In case, a drug-addict is not able to receive the required dose of drug when needed, then he/she would be ready to do anything for it even by resorting to unfair means, such as theft or may be hurting someone physically, etc.

I therefore request everyone to strictly say ‘No’ to drugs and get such people admitted to rehabilitation centers where their conditions can be improved before it gets horrible and proves fatal for that person.

Speech on Drug Abuse Faq’s

What is the topic of drug abuse day.

Drug Abuse Day focuses on raising awareness about the harmful effects of drug misuse and addiction.

What is drug abuse in the English language?

Drug abuse in English refers to the harmful and improper use of drugs, often leading to health and social problems.

How can we say no to drugs?

We can say no to drugs by staying informed, making healthy choices, and seeking support from friends and family when faced with drug temptations.

How to write an essay about drugs?

To write an essay about drugs, start with an introduction, discuss the impacts, causes, and solutions, and conclude with your viewpoint on the topic.

What is drugs summary?

A drugs summary is a brief overview of key information about drugs, including their effects, risks, and uses.

What is drug abuse in a short introduction?

Drug abuse is when people misuse drugs, causing harm to themselves and society. It's a serious problem that needs attention.

What are a few lines on addiction?

Addiction is a strong, harmful craving for something, like drugs, that can be very difficult to control. It can lead to serious problems.

We can say no to drugs by being strong, confident, and making choices that keep us safe and healthy.

Addiction is a powerful need for something that can be harmful, like drugs or alcohol. It can affect a person's life in many negative ways.

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Speech On Drug Abuse | Drug Abuse Speech for Students and Children in English

April 9, 2023 by Prasanna

Speech On Drug Abuse: The drug is a substance that can cause the death of an organism if taken more than the dosage. It causes a change in the physiological and psychological structure of the organism when it is consumed. There are various mediums through which one can intake or consume drugs like smoking, inhalation, injection, etc.

In pharmacy terms, a drug is a chemical substance, that is typical of a known structure, which, when entering into a living organism, produces a biological effect. The other name given to pharmaceutical drugs is medicine or medication. It mainly treats cures or prevents a disease present in a body. Pharmaceutical drugs should be used for a limited time, or it may cause severe disorders if taken regularly.

Students can also find more English Speech Writing about Welcome Speeches, Farewell Speeches, etc

Long And Short Speeches On Drug Abuse for Kids And Students in English

In this article, we provide a long speech for students and children on the topic of Drug Abuse with about 500 words and another short speech with 150 words approximately on the same topic.

These speeches can help anyone who is looking forward to presenting a speech on the topic as mentioned above, be it students, teachers, or any other research person.

Furthermore, we have also included ten Lines on the topic and some FAQs to make the content clearer to our readers.

A Long Speech On Drug Abuse is helpful to students of classes 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12. A Short Speech On Drug Abuse is helpful to students of classes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6.

Long Speech On Drug Abuse 500 Words In English

Very good morning and a warm welcome to everybody present here today. Today, I will be talking on the topic of‘ drug abuse’.

The word ‘drug’ when it comes to one’s mind, is taken in a negative sense as it is often misused. If the drugs are used for serving a useful purpose, it could bring a considerable change in the lives of people.

The drug is not a dangerous substance itself. But people misuse it in many ways. It is highly dangerous and can cause serious health problems if one takes it on a regular basis. The drug has become a trend in today’s world. Today’s generation has become obsessed with following whatever is new or trending in the world. Such is the situation in case of drugs.

Pharmaceutical drugs are classified into the following groups that have the same kind of chemical structure, mechanisms of actions, mode of action of the same type of drugs, etc. The Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification is the most popularly used drug classification system. It assigns a unique code or the ATC code to each drug. The ATC code is an alphanumeric code. It assigns that specific drug within the ATC system.

Another essential classification system that is widely used for drug classification is the Biopharmaceutics Classification System. This system classifies the drugs according to their solubility and permeability or absorption properties.

There are also different kinds of drugs. Among them, Psychoactive drugs play an essential role. It consists of chemical substances that are very harmful to the human body. It has a high chance to affect the function of the nervous system of a human being. These drugs can affect one’s stability of mind, inflict mood swings, etc.

These psychoactive drugs have a significant impact on people. These drugs mainly consist of depressants, antidepressants, hallucinogens, etc. and have been proven extremely useful. It has also gained huge success in treating mental disorders around the world. The drugs that are used in a wide variety in the world are caffeine, alcohol, nicotine and many more. These drugs are considered to be recreational drugs. Recreational drugs refer to the drugs that are consumed for pleasure and not for medical purposes.

Abuse of such psychoactive drugs can turn out to be very dangerous to the entire humankind. It can cause psychological or physical addiction. All these drugs have tremendous side effects; these side effects can later give rise to several diseases.

Thus, the government has come up with strict rules and regulations regarding the production of these drugs. This industry is closely supervised, so the smuggling of drugs can be reduced as much as possible.

It is our duty as responsible citizens of our country not to misuse the drugs as it will cost us our lives and follow the rules and regulations of the government appropriately. If we see any such crime, we should immediately report it to the nearest police station.

Thank you, everyone, for your patience and for giving an earful to my speech. I hope everyone has a great day ahead.

Short Speech On Drug Abuse 150 Words In English

Good morning and welcome to everyone present here. I am here today to give a speech on ‘Drug abuse’.

The drug is not the kind of word that has an outstanding reputation of its own. It is mostly associated with spoiled teenagers or rich kids with a lot of money.

In reality, the drug has many positive sides. It is known to serve as medicines or medication of many chronic diseases. There are many kinds of drugs that help in the treatment of mental illness, depression, etc.

It can be proved to be equally harmful if it is consumed without the medical advice of a professional. It will not take long to convert the consumption of drug from an option to an addiction.

Thus, it is essential we maintain the balance and not consume drugs to destroy our own lives.

With this, I mark the end of this speech, thank you.

10 Lines On Drug Abuse Speech In English

Drug abuse or addiction is one of the most common chronic and compulsive disorder that often requires formal treatment.
Drug abuse changes a person’s brain chemistry, and the longer one uses it, the more damage they pose for themselves.
There are ample rehabilitation centres in most countries now to overcome the problem of drug abuse. However, people hardly go there for treatment in most cases.
There are some very symptoms like isolating oneself, spending time with new friends, losing job etc.
Drug overdose death rate has tripled across the world since 1990.
Most Americans between the age of 18 to 25 are likely to be drug addicts.
Over 15000 Americans died in 2017 due to heroin overdose.
More than 90% of people who have any addiction start from a very young age, before turning 18.
Drug and alcohol usage costs around $600 billion to the U.S economy each year.
In 2017 around 8,50000 Americans used heroin at least once.

FAQ’s On Drug Abuse Speech

Question 1. What is the function of NIDA (National Institute on Drug Abuse)?

Answer: NIDA is one of the most famous scientific research institutes under the U.S department of health services. The institute addresses essential issues about drug abuse, drug trends etc.

Question 2. Where can I get data on drug overdose?

Answer: Data on drug overdose, addiction can be availed from various agencies such as NIDA in case of the U.S where they annually maintain reports od drug abusers.

Question 3. Why do drug users keep using the drug?

Answer: Being exposed to drugs for a very long time changes the brain’s power to get control over decisions, thus making it difficult to abstain from drug use.

Question 4. What is drug addiction/abuse?

Answer: Drug abuse is a chronic disease that changes brain circuits and is also responsible for other behavioural changes. Quitting drugs is one of the main problems of drug abuse as even with the strongest of opinions people fail to do so.

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Speech on Drug Abuse: Short & Long Speech on Drug Addiction

admin June 25, 2024 Speech 502 Views

Speech on Drug Abuse : Drug abuse has become the most common thing these days and many youth are destroying their lives by getting addicted to drugs. It’s very important to sensitize our youth on the subject of drug abuse. They are ruining the lives of our youth and putting their future in a great darkness. The use of drugs is making their lives vulnerable and prone to destruction. Therefore, it becomes very important to raise awareness about it amongst our youth and prevent them from succumbing to it. The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is celebrated annually on June 26th it serves as a significant platform for raising awareness and addressing the critical issue of substance abuse. You can even prepare a speech on drug abuse and deliver it on various occasions and platforms.

International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

United Nations International Day against drug abuse and the illegal drug trade. It is observed annually on 26 June , since 1989.

Long and Short Speeches on Drug Abuse in English

Speech on Drug Abuse: Speech 1

Dear students – warm greetings to all of you i welcome everyone to the school seminar hall..

I, therefore, request all the students to refrain themselves completely from the consumption of drugs before it destroys their health, future and takes away their lives. Don’t even try to touch or come close to them. Drugs can even destroy a complete generation. So think wise and act smart. Shape your future which seems bright and full of achievements. The drugs that doctor prescribes to his / her patients must only be taken in order to combat a specific disease otherwise the government must take strict measures to ban its illegal trade in the market and save our youth from destruction.

Speech on Drug Abuse: Speech 2

Good morning friends – welcome to the 77 th campaign for drug addiction ban..

People can become addicted to drugs because of various reasons, some of which are mentioned below:

1. in order to de-stress themselves.

2. Out of peer pressure

Many times, people start taking drugs because their friends are addicted to them. However, once they start taking it, it becomes really difficult for them to get rid of this habit.

3. Style Statement

Speech on Drug Abuse: Speech 3

Respected principal, vice principal, teachers and my dear fellow students – warm welcome to all of you today, standing in the prayer hall i would like to take this opportunity to deliver a brief speech on drug abuse..

Speech on Drug Abuse: Speech 4

Hon’ble principal, vice principal, fellow colleagues and my dear students – warm greetings to one and all.

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Essay on Say No to Drugs

Students are often asked to write an essay on Say No to Drugs in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Say No to Drugs

Introduction.

Drugs are harmful substances that can ruin our health and life. It’s crucial that we say ‘no’ to drugs, as they can lead to addiction, health problems, and even death.

Effects of Drugs

Drugs can damage our brain, heart, and other vital organs. They can cause memory loss, heart attacks, and even mental disorders.

Importance of Saying No

Saying ‘no’ to drugs is important for our health, future, and overall well-being. It helps us live a healthy, happy, and productive life.

Let’s pledge to say ‘no’ to drugs and spread awareness about their harmful effects.

250 Words Essay on Say No to Drugs

The menace of drugs.

Drugs are a scourge that has plagued society for centuries. They cause havoc to the physical and mental health of individuals and disrupt the fabric of communities and societies.

The Harrowing Consequences

The consequences of drug abuse are multifaceted. Physically, they can lead to severe health problems, including heart disease, liver damage, and even death. Mentally, they can induce paranoia, depression, and anxiety. Socially, drug addiction often leads to broken relationships, unemployment, and crime.

The Power of Saying No

The power to say no to drugs should not be underestimated. It is a personal decision that can save lives and futures. Saying no is not just about personal strength, but also about understanding the profound implications of drug use.

Education as a Preventive Measure

Education plays a pivotal role in preventing drug abuse. It is essential to impart knowledge about the dangers of drugs and the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Colleges should integrate drug education into their curriculum, providing students with the necessary tools to make informed decisions.

Collective Responsibility

The fight against drugs is a collective responsibility. It requires the collaborative efforts of individuals, communities, and governments. By fostering a culture of understanding, support, and resilience, we can combat the menace of drugs.

500 Words Essay on Say No to Drugs

Drugs have been a persistent issue across the globe, posing significant threats to the health and well-being of individuals, particularly among the youth. The phrase “Say No to Drugs” has become a universal mantra, urging individuals to resist the temptation of drug use. This essay explores the reasons why it is crucial to say no to drugs and the potential consequences of drug use.

The Allure and Consequences of Drug Use

Drugs are often seen as an escape route from reality, a way to numb pain or experience an altered state of consciousness. However, this temporary relief comes at a high cost. Prolonged drug use can lead to addiction, a chronic disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. It affects the brain’s structure and function, causing long-term cognitive impairment, emotional instability, and physical health problems.

The Impact on Personal Life

The societal impact.

The societal impact of drug abuse is profound. It can lead to an increase in crime rates, as drug addicts may resort to illegal activities to fund their addiction. Moreover, it places a significant burden on the healthcare system, as treating drug addiction and its associated health problems can be costly. It also results in lost productivity, as drug addicts often struggle to maintain steady employment.

Prevention and Awareness

Saying no to drugs is not just an individual responsibility; it’s a collective one. Society needs to work together to create an environment that discourages drug use. This can be achieved through education and awareness programs that highlight the dangers of drug use and the benefits of a drug-free lifestyle. These programs should also provide resources for those struggling with drug addiction, such as counseling services and rehabilitation centers.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

Teenage Drug Addiction: An Overview

Substance Use Statistics
Why Teens Use Drugs
Drug Effects
Specific Health Risks
Symptoms and Warning Signs
Four Stages of Addiction

Many teens experiment with substances but don’t continue to use them. For some adolescents, however, trying a substance like alcohol, marijuana, or illicit drugs leads to regular use. Once withdrawal and cravings set in, a teen dealing with addiction and dependence may not be able to stop using a substance, even if they want to.

Caregivers can prevent teen drug abuse by knowing the signs and talking to their children about the consequences of using substances. This article reviews statistics, risk factors, health effects, signs, and treatment for teenage drug addiction .

Sturti / Getty Images

Teenage Substance Use Statistics

Public health experts track the rates of substance use in people of all ages. One group that they pay particular attention to is teens.

Basic Statistics

Here are some of the key statistics from the Monitoring the Future survey, which has been tracking youth substance use in the United States for over 40 years.

In 2023, here’s how many teens in the U.S. reported any illicit drug use in the last year:

Eighth graders: 10.9%
10th graders: 19.2%
12th graders: 31.2%

In addition:

By the time they reach 12th grade, 21.3% of teens have tried an illicit drug at least once.
From 2016 to 2020, drug use among eighth graders increased by 61%.
In a year, around 4,477 15-to-24-year-olds die of illicit drug overdoses (about 11.2% of all overdose deaths are in this age group).

Substances Used

Here is how many teens reported using a specific substance in the last year:

Eighth graders: 15.1%
10th graders: 30.6%
12th graders: 45.7%
Eighth graders: 8.3%
10th graders: 17.8%
12th graders: 29%
Any illicit drugs:
10th graders: 19.8%
12th graders: 31.2 %
Cigarettes:
Eighth graders: 5.8%
10th graders: 9.4%
12 t thgraders: 15%
Vaping nicotine (e-cigarettes):
Eighth graders: 11.4%
10th graders: 17.6%
12th graders: 23.2%

Prescription Medications

Alcohol is the most commonly abused substance among teens, but rates of nicotine and prescription medication abuse are increasing. Examples of prescription drugs teens may misuse include stimulants like Adderall and benzodiazepines like Xanax .

What Causes Teens to Use Drugs?

The reasons why any person uses drugs are complex, and the same is true for teens. Wanting to fit in with peers, feeling overwhelmed by their changing brains and bodies, and pressure to perform in school or sports are just a few reasons why teens may start experimenting with drugs. Teens may not seek drugs out but are instead introduced to substances by someone they know, such as a friend, teammate, or even a family member.

In addition, teens often don’t know or understand the dangers of substance abuse. They may see occasional use as being safe and don’t believe they could become addicted to drugs or face consequences. They may also assume that they can stop using if they want to.

Other risk factors for drug use in teens include:

Family history of substance use
Academic pressure
Adverse childhood events ( ACES )
Lack of supervision
Mental health disorders
Peer pressure
Desire to escape (e.g., external situation like home life or internal situation like complex feelings)
Social acceptance (e.g., fitting in with peers)
Low self-esteem
Increased access to substances
Transitional periods (e.g., starting puberty or attending a new school)

While drug use can lead to mental health disorders, sometimes it’s the other way around. Teens may use substances to self-medicate or numb emotional pain.

What Are the Effects of Using Drugs During Adolescence?

The body sends out a “feel good” chemical called dopamine when using a substance. This response tells the brain that it is worth using the substance again to get that feeling. As a result, a person starts having cravings for the substance. Addiction happens when cravings don’t stop, withdrawal occurs without the substance, and use continues even when there are negative consequences. Since the physical and mental urge to use is so strong, it becomes very hard to stop using a substance.

Teenagers who misuse substances can experience drug dependence ( substance use disorder ). Developmentally, adolescents are at the highest risk for drug dependence and severe addiction.

Effects on Brain Development and Growth

The human brain continues to develop until about the age of 25. Using substances during adolescence can change brain structure and negatively affect brain functions like learning, processing emotions, and decision-making. It can also lead to the following:

More risky behaviors : Substance abuse makes teens more likely to engage in risky behaviors like unprotected sex (or "condomless sex") or dangerous driving.
Higher risk for adult health problems : Teenagers who abuse substances have a higher risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and sleep disorders.
Mental health disorders : It is common for teens with substance abuse disorders to have mental health conditions (and vice versa).
Impaired academic performance : Substance use affects a teen’s concentration and memory, which may negatively affect their schoolwork.

Substance Misuse and Mental Health

A study showed that 60% of teens in a community-based substance use treatment program were also diagnosed with a mental health disorder.

What Are the Health Risks of Drug Abuse?

Drug and alcohol use can lead to substance use disorder as well as the specific health risks of the substance being abused.

Alcohol use can lead to an increased risk of:

Liver disease, cirrhosis, and cancer
Heart disease and stroke
Depression
Lack of focus
Alcohol poisoning
Increased risky behavior

Alcohol Statistics

In the United States, 29.5 million people ages 12 and older have an alcohol use disorder.

Marijuana can impair concentration, worsen mental health, interfere with prescription medications, lead to risky sexual behaviors, or contribute to dangerous driving. Smoking marijuana can also negatively affect lung health.

Marijuana is often thought of as not being "as bad" as other drugs and, in some cases, even good for you. However, marijuana can be harmful to teens because their brains are still developing. Marijuana use in teens is linked to difficulty with problem-solving, memory and learning issues, impaired coordination, and problems with maintaining attention.

Vaping and Edible Marijuana Use Is on the Rise

Recent data shows a shift from teens smoking marijuana to using vaping devices and edibles instead.

Opioids include legal prescription medications such as hydrocodone, oxycontin, and fentanyl, as well as illegal drugs such as heroin. These drugs carry a high risk of overdose and death. The annual rate of opioid overdose deaths for those aged 15 to 24 years is 12.6 per 100,000 people.

Over-the-Counter and Prescription Medications

Over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications can be misused more easily than others because they’re often easy for teens to obtain. Diet pills, caffeine pills, and cold and flu products with dextromethorphan are just a few examples of OTC substances teens may use. They may also have access to family member’s prescriptions for drugs like opiate painkillers and stimulants or get them from friends who do.

There are serious health risks to misusing OTC cold and cough products, including increased blood pressure, loss of consciousness, and overdose. There can also be legal issues if a teen is using someone else’s prescriptions.

Tobacco can lead to multiple chronic illnesses, including:

Lung disease
Heart disease
Vision loss
Decreased fertility

E-Cigarettes (Vaping)

Vaping is attractive to teens because e-cigarettes are often flavored like fruit, candy, or mint. These products may contain nicotine or other synthetic substances that damage the brain and lungs. The teenage brain is vulnerable to the harmful effects of nicotine, including anxiety and addiction.

E-cigarettes come in a variety of shapes and sizes and might be disguised as everyday items, such as:

USB Flash Drives
Hoodie (sweatshirt) strings
Smartwatches
Toys (e.g., fidget spinners)
Phone cases

Cocaine carries a risk of overdose and withdrawal. It causes decreased impulse control and poor decision-making. Withdrawal symptoms from cocaine include restlessness, paranoia, and irritability. Snorting cocaine can cause nosebleeds and a loss of smell. Using cocaine can lead to heart attacks, lung problems, strokes, seizures, and coma.

Cocaine Can Be Fatal With First Use

There have been reports of people dying the first time they use cocaine, often from sudden cardiac arrest, respiratory arrest, or seizures.

Ecstasy (MDMA)

Ecstasy is a stimulant that causes an increased heart rate, blurred vision, and nausea. It can also lead to brain swelling, seizures, and organ damage.

Ecstasy is also known as:

Inhalants are fumes from gases, glue, aerosols, or solvents that can damage the brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, and liver. Using inhalants even once can lead to overdose, suffocation, seizures, and death.

Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine (crystal meth) is a highly addictive stimulant that has multiple health consequences, including:

Severe weight loss
Lack of sleep
Dental problems
Change in brain structure
Paranoia and hallucinations

Disease Transmission Risk

Injecting drugs with shared needles increases the risk of contracting HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.

What Are the Signs a Teen Is Using Drugs?

Being on the lookout for drug paraphernalia and signs and symptoms of drug abuse can help adults recognize at-risk teens.

Behavioral warning signs of drug use in teens include:

Personality changes
Irritability
Difficulty sleeping
Inappropriate or odd behavior (e.g., laughing randomly)
Loss of interest in hobbies or extracurricular activities
Avoiding eye contact
Acting secretive or like they’re hiding something
Staying out late
Social withdrawal (e.g., from family, friends)
Poor academic performance
Hanging out with new friends or no longer hanging out with their usual friend group
Poor hygiene
Skipping school
Isolation (e.g., staying in their room, refusing family meals)

Not All Warning Signs Indicate Drug Use

These warning signs do not necessarily mean a teen is using drugs. Other health problems like allergies, sinus infections, hormone imbalances, or mental disorders can also cause these symptoms in teens.

Physical signs of drug use in teens may include:

Persistent cough
Dilated pupils
Increased or decreased energy
Sleeping all the time or not at all
Mood swings
Memory problems
Talking very fast or slowly
Runny nose or nosebleeds
Increased/decreased appetite
Weight loss
Smells like smoke or alcohol (e.g., on clothes, skin, or breath)

Other than behavior and physical signs in a teen, you should also be aware of objects that can be used to do drugs. Examples of drug paraphernalia include:

Mirrors with white powder
Razorblades
Rolled dollar bills
Crack pipes and spoons
Needles and syringes
Rolling paper

Substance Abuse Screening

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that teens be screened at each annual medical exam appointment with questionnaires that ask them about substance use and their knowledge of the risks.

What Are the Four Stages of Drug Addiction?

You should also be aware of the four stages of addiction. The earlier teen drug use is recognized, the sooner they can get help.

Experimentation: A teen tries one or more substances. Some teens will only try a substance once. Others will continue to experiment and increase their use.
Regular or “social” use: A teen begins to use one or more substances regularly. At this stage, they may limit their use to just when they’re with friends or only in situations where they feel it’s needed—e.g., before a test.
Risky use: A teen continues to use a substance that they have regularly been using, even if it’s caused problems for them at school, at home, and in their relationships. They crave the substance, both physically and mentally. At this stage, the substance has become central to a teen’s life, and they’ll take risks to get and use it.
Dependence and Addiction: A teen is addicted to a substance, and most of their time and energy is devoted to getting and using it. At this stage, they would need intervention and treatment to quit, as they may not be able to stop on their own, even if they wanted to.

How Can Parents Prevent Teenage Drug Use?

While they may not express it, teens do value bonds with the adults in their lives. Nurturing that connection with them includes being involved in their lives and having open, honest communication.

How to Talk to Your Teen About Drug Use

Open communication starts by showing an interest in and talking to your teen about everything. This dialogue builds trust and respect, making it easier for you to talk about difficult topics.

Giving teens your undivided attention, without distractions, helps them feel special and heard. This quality time could be during chores, dinner, walks, car rides, or a fun family game night.

Here are some general tips to keep in mind when you’re talking about drugs with your teen:

Stay curious and show interest.
Ask open-ended questions.
Actively listen.
Don’t interrupt.
Give compliments.
Stay up late to talk.
Chat over their favorite food.

If you’re trying to start a conversation with your teen because you think they may be using drugs, their response to being confronted will determine how you’ll need to approach the conversation.

If your teen admits to using drugs, stay calm. Be supportive and willing to listen. Find out as much as you can about their drug use—what substances they’re using, how often they’re using them, and how they’re getting them. Be clear that the risks of drugs are serious and that drug use will not be tolerated. At the same time, make sure that you reassure your teen that you love them and that you want to help.

If your teen denies using drugs and you think they are lying , communicate the negative consequences of drug and alcohol use. Be clear that you want them to be safe and that experimenting with substances is dangerous—even if it’s just one time. If you are not able to keep the line of communication open with your teen, talk to their healthcare provider. They can help connect you to resources and support you in taking more decisive action, like drug testing.

Other Strategies

Talking to your teen openly and often is key, but there are also other steps you can take:

Model responsible behavior for them.
Stay involved with their activities but let them express their boundaries.
Meet their friends and their parents.
Teach them how to make good decisions when under pressure.

Protect Teens From Prescription Medications

Prescription drugs are generally safe when they're taken as prescribed. However, any time a person takes medication for reasons other than what they were prescribed for, it is considered medication abuse. Strategies to protect teens from prescription medication misuse include:

Storing prescription medications in a safe place
Locking up controlled substances
Getting rid of old medications

Safe Medication Disposal

Do not dispose of medications by flushing them down the toilet or pouring them down the sink. Medications can be crushed and mixed into the trash (to keep them away from children and pets) or returned to your local pharmacy or community drug take-back program.

Drug Addiction Treatment for Teens

Even if the adults in their lives try to prevent it, some teens will develop substance use disorders. Support for teens with drug addiction includes treating withdrawal or underlying mental health conditions, and addressing emotional needs, usually with a qualified mental health professional such as a psychiatrist or psychologist.

Treatment for teens experiencing substance use disorder includes a combination of the following:

Outpatient clinics
12-step programs
Inpatient mental health or substance use units
Medications
Therapy (individual, group, or family)

Substance Use Helpline

If your teen is struggling with substance use or addiction, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for information on support and treatment facilities in your area.

If you are having suicidal thoughts, dial 988 to contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and connect with a trained counselor. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911 .

Talk to your teen’s healthcare provider about what treatment would be best for them. Here are a few topics to discuss:

Underlying health problems
Benefits of treatment
Credentials of team members
Side effects
Family involvement
Schoolwork during treatment
Length of treatment
Follow-up care

Experimenting with drugs or alcohol is tempting for teenagers because they may not know or understand the dangers of using substances—even just once. Academic pressure, low self-esteem, and peer pressure are just a few factors that increase their risk of substance use.

Caregivers need to have an open line of communication with their teens and teach them about the risks of using drugs. It’s also important to know the signs of drug use and intervene early to help teens who are at risk for or have already developed substance use disorders.

While drug use may increase the risk of mental health disorders, it’s also important to note that these disorders can lead to substance abuse to self-medicate or numb the emotional pain. If you suspect that a teenager is experiencing either, consult a pediatrician or mental health professional as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Depending on the substance and severity, a tube may be placed through the nose to suction drugs from the stomach. Activated charcoal is given through the tube to bind with the drug to release it from the body, decreasing the amount released into the bloodstream. If an antidote (reversal agent) such as Narcan is available for that substance, it may be given.

National surveys from the National Institute on Drug Abuse show adolescent drug use rates have remained steady. However, the survey’s detected a shift in the types of drugs used by teens. Alcohol is still the most often abused substance, but the rates are decreasing. Instead, nicotine use and misuse of prescription medications are on the rise.

University of Michigan. Teen drug use remains below pre-pandemic levels .

National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics. Drug use among youth: facts & statistics .

Monitoring the Future. National Survey Results on Drug Use, 1975-2023: Secondary School Students .

NCDAS. Drug use among youth: facts & statistics .

Monitoring the Future. Alcohol: Trends in last 12 months prevalence of use in 8 th , 10 th , and 12 th grade .

Monitoring the Future. Marijuana: Trends in last 12 months prevalence of use in 8 th , 10 th , and 12 th grade .

Monitoring the Future. Any illicit drug: Trends in last 12 months prevalence of use in 8 th , 10 th , and 12 th grade .

Monitoring the Future. Cigarettes: Trends in last 12 months prevalence of use in 8 th , 10 th , and 12 th grade .

Monitoring the Future. Vape nicotine (e-cigarettes): Trends in last 12 months prevalence of use in 8 th , 10 th , and 12 th grade .

DEA. Prescription for disaster: How teens abuse medicines .

National Institute of Health: National Institute on Drug Abuse, Advancing Addiction Science. NIH-funded study finds overall rate of drug use among 10-14 year-olds remained stable during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic .

Scholastic and the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA). How nicotine affects the teen brain .

Steinfeld M, Torregrossa MM. Consequences of adolescent drug use . Translational Psychiatry . 2023;13(1). doi:10.1038/s41398-023-02590-4

University of Rochester Medical Center. Understanding the teen brain .

National Institute of Health: National Institute on Drug Abuse, Advancing Addiction Science. Common comorbidities with substance use disorders research report: part 1: the connection between substance use disorders and mental illness .

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Alcohol use in the United States .

NIH. Alcohol use disorder (AUD) in the United States: Age groups and demographic characteristics .

American Lung Association. Marijuana and lung health .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Cannabis and teens .

Sharma P, Mathews DB, Nguyen QA, Rossmann GL, A Patten C, Hammond CJ. Old dog, new tricks: A review of identifying and addressing youth cannabis vaping in the pediatric clinical setting . Clin Med Insights Pediatr . 2023;17:11795565231162297. Published 2023 Mar 25. doi:10.1177/11795565231162297

NCDAS. Drug overdose death rates .

NIDA. Over-the-counter medicines .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Health effects of cigarette smoking .

Center for Disease Control and Prevention. E-cigarette use among youth .

NYC Health. Cocaine .

Nemours Teens Health. What Is MDMA (ecstasy)?

Medline Plus. Inhalants .

National Institute of Health: National Institute on Drug Abuse, Advancing Addiction Science. Methamphetamine drug facts .

CDC. Injection drug use .

Levy S, Williams JF, Ryan S, et al. Substance Use Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment . Pediatrics . 2016;138(1). doi:10.1542/peds.2016-1211

AAP. Bright Futures Toolkit: Links to Commonly Used Screening Instruments and Tools .

Orlando Recovery Center. The four stages of addiction – what are they?

Casa Palmera. The four stages of drug addiction .

Partnership to End Addiction. Connecting with your teenager to prevent drug use .

SAMHSA. Talking with teens about alcohol and other drugs .

American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP). Substance abuse treatment for children and adolescents: questions to ask .

National Council Against Prescription Drug Abuse (NCAPDA). Drug overdose response: know the signs .

American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP). Teens: alcohol and other drugs .

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Tips for teens: cocaine .

By Brandi Jones, MSN-ED RN-BC Jones is a registered nurse and freelance health writer with more than two decades of healthcare experience.

Speech on Drug Addiction in English for Students

Table of Contents

Motivational Speech on Drug Addiction

Dear audience, today, I want to talk to you about a topic that affects us all – drug addiction. But I don’t want to just give you the usual statistics and information; I want to engage you, challenge your perceptions, and inspire you to take action. Let me start by asking you a question: How many of you know someone who has been affected by drug addiction? Maybe it’s a family member, a friend, or even yourself. Drug addiction is a complex <table width="100%"><tbody><tr><td>&nbsp;complex / complexityIf something is complex, it is not simple and that means it can be hard to understand. In other words, it has many parts and normally takes a long time to study or understand. It can be used in a neutral way, but is sometimes negative, when a person wants to say something should be simple, but isn’t. Very often the structures, models and theories that you come across at university are complex - this often means that you need to analyse them - in other words, break them down into the different components. The noun form is 'complexity'. This is a complex question which requires careful consideration.The complexity of the problem meant that we needed to spend many more hours on identifying its causes and recommending solutions.</td></tr></tbody></table> " data-gt-translate-attributes='[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]' tabindex=0 role=link>complex issue that impacts individuals and communities in a multitude of ways.

Please enable JavaScript

This is why it’s so important to approach drug addiction with empathy and understanding. We need to recognize that addiction is not a moral failing, but rather a treatable medical condition that requires evidence-based care and support.

But what can we do as a society to address drug addiction? There are several strategies that have proven effective, including:

1. Prevention : By educating young people about the risks of drug use and providing them with healthy coping mechanisms, we can help prevent addiction before it starts.

3. Harm reduction : Programs like needle exchange and overdose prevention can help reduce the harms associated with drug use and prevent overdose deaths.

4. Recovery support : Peer support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, can provide a sense of community and accountability for those in recovery.

In closing, I urge you to join me in this fight against drug addiction. Let’s challenge our perceptions, inspire change, and create a world where recovery is possible for everyone. Thank you for your attention, and I look forward to continuing this important conversation with you.

Speech on Drug Addiction

I’m honoured to be here today to talk to you about a topic that is very close to my heart: drug addiction.

But despite the negative impacts of drug addiction, it’s important to remember that recovery is possible. We need to start by recognizing drug addiction as a health issue rather than a moral failing. This means providing access to evidence-based treatment and support services that address the root causes of addiction.

It’s also important to understand that drug addiction doesn’t discriminate. It can impact anyone regardless of their age, race, gender, or socioeconomic status. That’s why we need to approach this issue with empathy and compassion and avoid stigmatizing those who are struggling with addiction.

I want to share a personal story with you. A few years ago, I had a friend who was struggling with prescription drug addiction. At first, I didn’t know how to help her. But over time, I learned the importance of being there for someone in their darkest moments, of listening without judgment, and of encouraging them to seek professional help. Today, my friend is in recovery and doing well.

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Youth Voices on Substance Abuse: A Guide to Empowerment and Action

18 August 2017 - The Youth Voices on Substance Abuse: A Guide to Empowerment and Action program engaged over one hundred upstate New York high school students in studies of key human rights documents, like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Sustainable Development Goals, followed by readings and classroom discussions exploring the causes and results of potentially addictive substance use.

Working with their teachers, with informed health and policy experts, and with resources and guidance by project organizer Gertrude Noden, from Words Into Deeds and Global Education Motivators , participants developed fact-based perspectives, then designed outreach projects to raise awareness among their peers and also provide direct support for local service organizations.

On April 20, 2017, eighteen of these students presented their perspectives on the opioid pandemic and recommended approaches to dealing with this health crisis at a briefing held under the auspices of the UN Department of Public Information, NGO Relations Section. Students were joined by Ithaca Mayor Svante Myrick, whose Ithaca Plan: A Public Health and Safety Approach to Drugs and Drug Policy advocates expanded supportive and recovery services, and Michelle McElroy from Southern Tier Aids Program , which supports regional counseling and needle exchange programs. Also presenting were Yu Ping Chan from the UN Office of Drugs and Crime, who provided a global perspective, and Jeff Brez, Chief, NGO Relations, Advocacy and Special Events.

At the briefing, several students shared very personal accounts of the effects of drugs on families. Students emphasized that scare tactics and just say no approaches are ineffective. Educators need to provide factual information about the range and effects – both positive and negative – of potentially addictive substances, beginning during elementary years and reinforced frequently. This allows youth to make decisions based on authentic information rather than misinformation from peers and others.

In their assessment of the Youth Voices program , students shared these comments:

Being at the UN is one of the best things I have ever had the opportunity to do. It was empowering, and it made me feel important, like I could make a difference.

Through this process my biases have been shattered and my unconscious stereotypes irrevocably changed for the better.

Everyone is so afraid to talk about addiction that we end up hiding the truth about it from children. We are not helping anyone by keeping them in the dark.

I learned the importance of fighting for human rights in my town and globally.

This project taught me what it is to be a global citizen and how to take action to help your community.

One audience member shared this reflection: The poise and grace with which they held themselves in front of a worldwide audience was amazing to witness. If these students are representative of our future leadership, we are in good hands!

Following the conference, students continued their outreach through interviews with reporters from print and radio media. The program culminated in a community celebration held at a local theater in Ithaca, NY. In addition to student presentations and posters, the event featured artists whose performances were based on Human Rights advocacy and experiences with substance abuse.

About the author

Gertrude Noden is the founder of Words Into Deeds.

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School Education /

Essay on Drug Abuse in 250 and 500 Words in English for Students

Updated on
Apr 2, 2024

Drug abuse refers to the excessive and frequent consumption of drugs. Drug abuse can have several harmful effects on our mental and physical health. Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the USA, passed the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986 and initiated the War on Drugs . He said, ‘Let us not forget who we are. Drug abuse is a repudiation of everything America is.’

Consuming drugs not only harms the individual himself but also affects society as a whole. Studies have shown that people who consume drugs become addicted to it. This addiction turns into substance abuse, resulting in self-damage, behaviour changes, mood swings, unnecessary weight loss, and several other health problems. Let’s understand what drug abuse is and how to fight it.

Table of Contents

1 Essay on Drug Abuse in 250 Words
2.1 Why Do People Consume Drugs?
2.2 Why Is Drug Abuse Bad?
2.3 Laws in India Against Drug Consumption
2.4 Steps to Prevent Drug Addiction
2.5 Conclusion
3 10 Lines Essay on Drug Abuse

Quick Read: Essay on CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act)

Essay on Drug Abuse in 250 Words

‘When people consume drugs regularly and become addicted to it, it is known as drug abuse. In medical terminology, drugs means medicines. However, the consumption of drugs is for non-medical purposes. It involves the consumption of substances in illegal and harmful ways, such as swallowing, inhaling, or injecting. When drugs are consumed, they are mixed into our bloodstream, affecting our neural system and brain functioning.

The Indian government has taken significant steps to help reduce the consumption of drugs. In 1985, the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act came into force. This act replaced the Opium Act of 1857, the Opium Act of 1878, and the Dangerous Drugs Act of 1930.

Drug abuse can lead to addiction, where a person becomes physically or psychologically dependent on the substance and experiences withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop using it.

Drug abuse can have serious consequences for the individual and society as a whole. On an individual level, drugs can damage physical health, including organ damage, infectious diseases, and overdose fatalities. Not only this, a person already suffering from mental health disorders will face more harmful aftereffects. Addiction disrupts our cognitive functioning and impairs our decision-making abilities.

To fight drug abuse, we need collective action from all sections of society. Medical professionals say that early intervention and screening programmes can identify individuals at risk of substance misuse and provide them with the necessary support services. Educating people, especially those who are at-risk, about drug abuse and its harmful effects can significantly help reduce their consumption.

Drug abuse is serious and it must be addressed. Drug abuse is killing youth and society. Therefore, it is an urgent topic to address, and only through sustainable and collective efforts can we address this problem.

Quick Read: Success in Life Speech

Essay on Drug Abuse in 500 Words

Drug abuse is known as frequent consumption. In time, these people become dependent on drugs for several reasons. Curiosity drives adolescents and teenagers, who are among the most susceptible groups in our society. Cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, heroin, etc. are some of the popular drugs consumed.

Why Do People Consume Drugs?

The very first question about drugs is: why do people consume drugs? Studies have shown that more than 50% of drug addicts consider drugs as a coping mechanism to alleviate emotional or psychological distress. In the beginning, drugs temporarily relieve feelings of anxiety, depression, or trauma, providing a temporary escape from difficult emotions or life circumstances.

Some consume drugs out of curiosity, some under peer pressure, and some want to escape the painful experiences. Some people enjoy the effects drugs produce, such as euphoria, relaxation, and altered perceptions. Recreational drug use may occur in social settings or as a form of self-medication for stress relief or relaxation.

Why Is Drug Abuse Bad?

The National Institute on Drug Abuse states that drugs can worsen our eyesight and body movement, our physical growth, etc. Marijuana, one of the most popular drugs, can slow down our reaction time, affecting our time and distance judgement and decreasing coordination. Cocaine and Methamphetamine can make the consumer aggressive and careless.

Our brain is the first victim of drugs. Drugs can disorder our body in several ways, from damaging organs to messing with our brains. Drugs easily get mixed into our bloodstream, and affect our neural system. Prolonged and excessive consumption of drugs significantly harms our brain functioning.

The next target of drug abuse is our physical health and relationships. Drugs can damage our vital organs, such as the liver, heart, lungs, and brain. For example, heavy alcohol use can lead to cirrhosis of the liver, while cocaine use can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Laws in India Against Drug Consumption

Here is an interesting thing; the USA has the highest number of drug addicts and also has strict laws against drug consumption. According to a report by the Narcotics Control Bureau, around 9 million people in India consume different types of drugs. The Indian government has implemented certain laws against drug consumption and production.

The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS), prohibits the production, sale, purchase, and consumption of narcotics and other illegal substances, except for scientific and medical purposes.

Also, Article 47 of the Indian Constitution states that ‘ The State shall endeavour to bring about prohibition of the consumption, except for medicinal purposes, of intoxicating drinks and drugs which are injurious to health.’

Quick Read: Essay on Indian Festivals in 500 Words

Steps to Prevent Drug Addiction

Several steps can be taken to prevent drug addiction. But before we start our ‘War on Drugs’ , it is crucial to understand the trigger point. Our social environment, mental health issues and sometimes genetic factors can play a role in drug abuse.

Education and awareness are the primary weapons in the fight against drugs.
Keeping distance from people and places addicted to drugs.
Encourage a healthy and active lifestyle and indulge in physical workouts.
Watch motivating videos and listen to sound music.
Self-motivate yourself to stop consuming drugs.
Talk to a medical professional or a psychiatrist, who will guide you to the right path.

Drug abuse is a serious problem. The excessive and frequent consumption of drugs not only harms the individual but also affects society as a whole. Only a collective approach from lawmakers, healthcare professionals, educators, community leaders, and individuals themselves can combat drug abuse effectively.

Quick Read: Speech About Life

10 Lines Essay on Drug Abuse

Here is a 10-line essay on drug abuse.

Drug abuse can significantly affect our physical growth
Drug abuse can affect our mental functioning.
Drug abuse may provide instant pleasure, but inside, it weakens our willpower and physical strength.
Educating people, especially those who are at-risk, about drug abuse and its harmful effects can significantly help reduce their consumption.
Drugs easily get mixed into our bloodstream, and affect our neural system.
Prolonged and excessive consumption of drugs significantly harms our brain functioning.
In 1985, the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act came into force.
The USA has the highest number of drug addicts and also has strict laws against drug consumption.
Drug addicts consider drugs as a coping mechanism to alleviate emotional or psychological distress.
Adolescents and teenagers are the most vulnerable section of our society and are driven by curiosity.

Ans: Drug abuse refers to the excessive and frequent consumption of drugs. Drug abuse can have several harmful effects on our mental and physical health.

Ans: ‘When people consume drugs regularly and become addicted to it, it is known as drug abuse. In medical terminology, drugs means medicines. However, the consumption of drugs is for non-medical purposes. It involves the consumption of substances in illegal and harmful ways, such as swallowing, inhaling, or injecting. When drugs are consumed, they are mixed into our bloodstream, affecting our neural system and brain functioning.

Ans: Drug abuse is known as frequent consumption. In time, these people become dependent on drugs for several reasons. Adolescents and teenagers are the most vulnerable section of our society who are driven by curiosity. Cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, heroin, etc. are some of the popular drugs consumed. The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS), prohibits the production, sale, purchase, and consumption of narcotics and other illegal substances, except for scientific and medical purposes.

Shiva Tyagi

With an experience of over a year, I've developed a passion for writing blogs on wide range of topics. I am mostly inspired from topics related to social and environmental fields, where you come up with a positive outcome.

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Start A Conversation: 10 Questions Teens Ask About Drugs and Health

Mother and teen girl viewing online resources together.

At the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), our goal is to help people get accurate, science-based information about drugs and health. To help you start a conversation about drugs and health, we’ve compiled teens' 10 most frequently asked questions from more than 118,000 queries we’ve received from young people during National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week ® . It’s okay if some of this information is news to you—lots of other people are asking, too!

Every day we make choices that affect our health. People take drugs for a lot of different reasons, like to deal with life’s challenges, to escape from reality, to relieve pain, or to try to fit in—just to name a few.

Some people can be aware of the negative effects of drugs on their health and in their life and still struggle to stop using them. This is because repeated drug use can lead to changes in the brain that make it hard to stop using them, even when people want to stop. When this happens, the person is experiencing a medical problem known as substance use disorder. Addiction is a severe form of substance use disorder.

All addictive drugs cause the brain to release the chemical dopamine. Dopamine is usually released after pleasurable and satisfying activities. Dopamine causes the brain to remember rewards, like food and sex, and reinforces the desire to seek them out again. Repeatedly using a drug floods the brain with more dopamine, which can change the way the brain responds to that drug.

With repeated use, a greater quantity of drug is needed to produce the same pleasurable effect. When the drug is not available, people may experience the negative symptoms of withdrawal, which may include stress, anxiety, depression, and sometimes physical symptoms such as sweating, vomiting and pain. Repeated cycles of drug use and withdrawal can disrupt brain function to the extent that people may have difficultly experiencing pleasure in their daily lives. At this point, many people continue drug use to avoid the lows caused by withdrawal rather than seek the highs they once experienced.

Fortunately, treatment can help people with a substance use disorder counteract these disruptive effects and lead healthier lives. The sooner a person receives treatment, the better the chance that they will recover.

Illustration of the brain releasing the chemical dopamine.

Xanax® and Percocet® are both brand names of prescription drugs. Both can help treat certain medical conditions when used as directed by a doctor, but they have the potential to be misused. They work in the brain in different ways:

Xanax®, or alprazolam, is a prescription depressant that helps produce a calming effect. Many people experience anxiety disorders and have difficulty sleeping, and prescription depressants can help treat these symptoms.

Percocet® is prescribed to treat severe pain from serious injuries or after surgery. It contains the analgesics (pain relievers) acetaminophen (the same drug as in Tylenol®) and oxycodone, which is an opioid analgesic. Opioids affect the brain's reward circuit, causing euphoria (the high), and flooding the brain with the chemical messenger (dopamine) which reinforces the brain to seek out the drug again.

Xanax® and Percocet® can cause severe adverse health effects, including overdose, if taken in large quantities or if taken with certain other drugs. Large doses of acetaminophen in Percocet® can also cause life-threatening liver damage. If you are prescribed these drugs, carefully follow your clinician’s instructions, and do not share them with others.

Illustration of the medications Xanax® and Percocet®

When teens ask us about bath salts , we understand that they’re probably not referring to Epsom salt for a relaxing time in the tub. They’re talking about synthetic cathinones, which are stimulants made in labs. Bath salts and similar drugs cause extreme wakefulness and elevated heart and breathing rates. Many people seek out these drugs because they are viewed as a cheaper substitute for stimulants like methamphetamine and cocaine.

Using bath salts can cause severe intoxication, hallucinations, paranoia, panic attacks, and addiction. Serious health effects including dehydration and kidney problems can also occur. An additional danger of taking these synthetic drugs is that they might contain other substances with their own harmful effects, including life-threatening overdoses.

Bath salts are usually white or brown crystal-like powder that are ingested in several ways, though snorting or injecting these drugs further increases the risk of harmful effects.

Despite their health risks, some of these drugs are sold legally in stores or online in small plastic or foil packages with the words, "Not for human consumption." In addition to "bath salts," synthetic cathinones are sometimes labeled as "plant food," "research chemicals," or "glass cleaner."

Photo of a packet of synthetic cathinones, known as "bath salts."

Many teens who have been diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) take prescription stimulants like Adderall® or Ritalin® to help treat their symptoms. When taken as directed, these medications can be helpful and safe, and have a very low risk for addiction. If your doctor prescribes stimulants, it’s important to follow the instructions and to discuss any concerns about addiction or dependence.

Sometimes people who don’t have ADHD take drugs like Adderall® or Ritalin® in an attempt to get high, to stay awake longer, or to stay focused while studying. According to the Monitoring the Future annual survey on teen drug use, there was a significant increase in the misuse of the ADHD medicine Adderall® among 8th graders from 2015 to 2020.

This can be especially harmful because people often take these medications at a higher dose or through a different route than prescribed. Misusing ADHD medications can cause headaches, nausea, feeling anxious, and sleeping problems. Misusing prescription stimulants can also lead to addiction. These drugs can also make you feel paranoid, cause your body temperature to get dangerously high, and make your heart beat too fast. While stimulants may help with a lack of focus in some people, they may diminish other skills (like creative thinking).

Graph shows the increase in past year misuse of Adderall® among 8th graders between 2015 and 2020.

It can be. Research shows that many teens and young adults don’t realize that the flavors they use actually can contain nicotine, an addictive compound found in tobacco . Many vapes also contain propylene glycol, glycerin, chemical flavorings, and other compounds with unknown health effects. As a result, people who vape—even just flavoring—may inhale and ingest potentially harmful chemicals.

Recent studies showed that students who had already used any type of e-cigarette by the time they started 9th grade were more likely than others to start smoking cigarettes and other smokable tobacco products within the next year. And we know that cigarette smoking is a leading cause of cancer and other illnesses. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) , cigarettes cause more than 480,000 premature deaths in the United States each year—from smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke. This represents about 1 in every 5 U.S. deaths, or 1,300 deaths every day.

Other vaping products can also cause harm. In 2020, thousands of people got sick and dozens died from an illness called EVALI, which stands for e-cigarette or vaping-use associated lung injury. Vitamin E acetate, an additive in some THC-containing vaping products, is strongly linked to EVALI. When heated and inhaled, vitamin E acetate can damage the lungs.

Graph shows the increase of daily or near daily nicotine vaping among 8th, 10th, and 12th graders.

Supporting a loved one through a struggle with substance use can be difficult for adults and teens alike. This process can be especially complicated when someone is resistant to getting help. While you may not have control over someone else's substance use, support is available to cope with how that substance use may affect you.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration ( SAMHSA ) operates the National Helpline 1-800-662-HELP (4357). This is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish). SAMHSA has resources available online for families coping with mental and substance use disorders and also provides a confidential online treatment locator .

If someone is experiencing an overdose, mental health crisis, or another emergency, call 9-1-1.

Photo of teen girl and list of signs of substance use.

Pregnancy is an important time to maintain or adopt healthy behaviors. Decades of research show exposure to certain substances can be unsafe for the health of the woman and the baby. Many drugs, including opioids, alcohol, and stimulants, have been associated with harm to the developing fetus. Using or being exposed to some substances can increase the risk of miscarriage and can cause migraines, seizures, or high blood pressure in the mother. A 2013 study found the risk of stillbirth was 2 to 3 times greater in women whose blood tests showed exposure to tobacco and about 2 times greater in women whose blood tests showed exposure to cannabis, stimulants, or prescription pain relievers.2 Pregnant women should refrain from drinking alcohol and talk with their health care provider before using any medicines or drugs.

Although the medical use of marijuana is legal in many states, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not determined that the marijuana plant is safe and effective for treating any disease or condition and has not approved it as a medicine. 

Although the marijuana plant has not been approved as medicine, the FDA has approved formulations of two of the components of marijuana—THC and CBD—as medicine for specific conditions. THC, which stands for delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is responsible for marijuana’s “high”, the euphoric and addictive effects of the drug. CBD, or cannabidiol, does not produce a high and has not been shown to lead to addiction.

CBD derived from the marijuana plant has been approved for seizures associated with specific disorders, and laboratory-made THC has been approved to help with appetite in people with AIDS and to treat nausea associated with chemotherapy for people with cancer. Although not available in the United States, a combination of plant-derived THC and CBD has been approved in multiple countries to treat some symptoms of multiple sclerosis.

The National Institutes of Health, including NIDA, continue to support research on the potential medical uses of marijuana and its components. Currently, however, marijuana products (including CBD) are being marketed as treatments for many conditions for which there is insufficient or no evidence of their safety or effectiveness.

Illustration of how the chemical compounds THC and CBD affect the brain differently.

Nicotine in any form is highly addictive, and many who start using one form of nicotine transition to another.

NIDA’s 2020 Monitoring the Future survey showed that the number of teens who say they vape nicotine has leveled off but remains high . The number of teens who say they smoked cigarettes in the past month declined significantly since the mid-1990s and is now at or near the lowest it ever has been. Because both smoking and vaping are so addictive, it is helpful to speak with a doctor when trying to quit either. A good strategy is never to start.

Graph on the left shows past-month cigarette use has declined among teens over past 10 years. Graph on the right shows how daily or near-daily nicotine vaping was higher than cigarette smoking among teens in 2020.

And the question we receive most often from teens is …

It’s only natural to want to know what’s best or worst, good or bad. That’s why we love these types of lists! But in the case of drugs and alcohol, there isn’t a “worst” just as there isn’t a “best” drug.

We don’t define drugs as most or least harmful. All drugs have the potential to produce negative health effects or lead to a dangerous situation in the short or long term. Whether a drug causes a serious health issue—like a life-threatening overdose—can depend on how much a person uses, how they consume it, and other factors.

However, some drugs are so potent that a life-threatening overdose can occur the first time a person uses them. For example, the synthetic opioid fentanyl is 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin. Because fentanyl is often mixed with other drugs, such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and MDMA (Molly), fentanyl may be ingested unknowingly at unknown quantities, which can lead to overdose. Injecting potent drugs can be particularly dangerous because this route delivers the compounds more directly to the brain than ingesting or snorting drugs. Injection also carries the risks of injury and infection.

Similarly, some drugs are more frequently associated with addiction and dependence than others. For example, more than half of people who regularly use cigarettes meet the criteria for a tobacco use disorder, while only about 1 in 11 people who regularly use marijuana (cannabis) meet the criteria for a cannabis use disorder. Certain drugs can have a stronger effect on the brain than others. Research has shown that methamphetamine , in particular, may damage cells and structures within the brain that can cause long-term problems with emotion and memory.

Certain physical or mental illnesses, as well as family health history, also influence someone's chances of developing an addiction or other negative health effects of drug use. Age is an especially important factor when calculating the risks of substance use. Because the brain develops through a person’s mid-twenties, teens and young adults tend to be more vulnerable to negative health effects of many drugs. All of this means certain substances may pose different risks to different people in different situations.

Going by the numbers, determining the deadliest drug also depends on perspective.

In 2021, an estimated 106,699 people died from a drug overdose in the United States. The most common drugs associated with these fatal overdoses were synthetic opioids, including highly potent illicitly made fentanyl .

However, the long-term health effects of cigarette smoking are responsible for more than 480,000 deaths per year. That’s about 1,300 deaths every day.

And alcohol is the substance most frequently involved in deadly car crashes. Nearly one person died every 52 minutes from drunk driving crashes in 2019.

To put it simply, what's the "worst" drug isn't an easy question to answer, and it’s important to understand the risks of any substance. NIDA supports research to help us understand the effect of drugs on the brain, how to prevent people from starting to use drugs, and how to help them if they have substance use disorder.

Illustration shows number of people who died from cigarette smoking, from drunk driving crashes and from drug-involved overdoses in the United States.

References:

Leventhal AM, Strong DR, Kirkpatrick MG, et al. Association of electronic cigarette use with initiation of combustible tobacco product smoking in early adolescence. JAMA. 2015;314(7):700-707. doi:10.1001/jama.2015.8950
Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. https://www.nichd.nih.gov/news/releases/pages/121113-stillbirth-drug-use.aspx . Published December 11, 2013. Accessed January 31, 2018.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Office on Smoking and Health. Smoking and Tobacco Use, Fast Facts. https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/data_statistics/fact_sheets/fast_facts/index.htm#:~:text=Cigarette%20smoking%20is%20responsible%20for,or%201%2C300%20deaths%20every%20day.&text= On%20average%2C%20smokers%20die%2010%20years%20earlier%20than%20nonsmokers.
United States Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Risky Driving, Drunk Driving. https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving
WONDER. Multiple Cause of Death 1999-2021. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center on Health Statistics. Released January 2023. Accessed January 2023.

OAY COVID-19 RESPONSES

5 Ways to Empower the Youth Against Drug Abuse

Published by admin on June 27, 2023 June 27, 2023

In the shadows of society, a perilous menace silently thrives, gripping the lives of individuals, families, and entire communities.

This menace is drug abuse , a destructive force that rips apart dreams, erodes health, and corrodes the very fabric of society. But what lies beneath the surface of this seemingly invisible enemy? What fuels its relentless spread, leaving countless lives in ruins?

Drug abuse, simply put, is the harmful and excessive consumption of substances that alter the mind and body.

These substances, both legal and illegal, possess the power to induce euphoria, numb pain, or offer temporary escape from the burdens of reality.

However, when abused, they unleash a sinister cycle of addiction, leading individuals down a treacherous path where their lives become tangled in the web of illicit trafficking.

The detrimental impact of drug abuse and illicit trafficking on young individuals cannot be underestimated, making it crucial to prioritize their mental health and overall well-being.

Empowering Youth for a Drug-Free Future

Youth development plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of societies worldwide. However, the rise in drug abuse and illicit trafficking has emerged as a major setback, impeding the growth and potential of young individuals.

Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach, focusing on prevention, education, and support systems.

Prevention through Education

Education remains a cornerstone in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking. Empowering young people with knowledge about the risks and consequences associated with substance abuse equips them to make informed decisions.

Schools and educational institutions should integrate comprehensive drug education programs that emphasize the physical, psychological, and social ramifications of drug abuse.

Creating Support Systems

Building robust support systems is essential to ensuring that young individuals facing drug-related challenges receive the help they need.

Governments, NGOs, and communities must collaborate to establish accessible and confidential helplines,counseling services, and rehabilitation programs.

By creating a safe space for open dialogue and support, we can encourage young people to seek assistance and embark on a journey of recovery.

Promoting Mental Health

Mental health is a vital aspect of youth development, and addressing it is crucial in combating drug abuse and illicit trafficking. Investing in mental health services, raising awareness about mental well-being, and reducing stigma are essential steps.

By fostering resilience, coping mechanisms, and emotional intelligence, we empower young individuals to navigate the complexities of life without resorting to substances.

Engaging Youth as Agents of Change

Young people possess immense potential to drive change in their communities. Engaging them in anti-drug campaigns, peer support networks, and advocacy initiatives allows them to become active participants in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

By amplifying their voices and providing platforms for expression, we can harness their energy, creativity, and passion to make a lasting impact.

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Tween and teen health

Teen drug abuse: Help your teen avoid drugs

Teen drug abuse can have a major impact on your child's life. Find out how to help your teen make healthy choices and avoid using drugs.

The teen brain is in the process of maturing. In general, it's more focused on rewards and taking risks than the adult brain. At the same time, teenagers push parents for greater freedom as teens begin to explore their personality.

That can be a challenging tightrope for parents.

Teens who experiment with drugs and other substances put their health and safety at risk. The teen brain is particularly vulnerable to being rewired by substances that overload the reward circuits in the brain.

Help prevent teen drug abuse by talking to your teen about the consequences of using drugs and the importance of making healthy choices.

Why teens use or misuse drugs

Many factors can feed into teen drug use and misuse. Your teen's personality, your family's interactions and your teen's comfort with peers are some factors linked to teen drug use.

Common risk factors for teen drug abuse include:

A family history of substance abuse.
A mental or behavioral health condition, such as depression, anxiety or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Impulsive or risk-taking behavior.
A history of traumatic events, such as seeing or being in a car accident or experiencing abuse.
Low self-esteem or feelings of social rejection.

Teens may be more likely to try substances for the first time when hanging out in a social setting.

Alcohol and nicotine or tobacco may be some of the first, easier-to-get substances for teens. Because alcohol and nicotine or tobacco are legal for adults, these can seem safer to try even though they aren't safe for teens.

Teens generally want to fit in with peers. So if their friends use substances, your teen might feel like they need to as well. Teens also may also use substances to feel more confident with peers.

If those friends are older, teens can find themselves in situations that are riskier than they're used to. For example, they may not have adults present or younger teens may be relying on peers for transportation.

And if they are lonely or dealing with stress, teens may use substances to distract from these feelings.

Also, teens may try substances because they are curious. They may try a substance as a way to rebel or challenge family rules.

Some teens may feel like nothing bad could happen to them, and may not be able to understand the consequences of their actions.

Consequences of teen drug abuse

Negative consequences of teen drug abuse might include:

Drug dependence. Some teens who misuse drugs are at increased risk of substance use disorder.
Poor judgment. Teenage drug use is associated with poor judgment in social and personal interactions.
Sexual activity. Drug use is associated with high-risk sexual activity, unsafe sex and unplanned pregnancy.
Mental health disorders. Drug use can complicate or increase the risk of mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety.
Impaired driving. Driving under the influence of any drug affects driving skills. It puts the driver, passengers and others on the road at risk.
Changes in school performance. Substance use can result in worse grades, attendance or experience in school.

Health effects of drugs

Substances that teens may use include those that are legal for adults, such as alcohol or tobacco. They may also use medicines prescribed to other people, such as opioids.

Or teens may order substances online that promise to help in sports competition, or promote weight loss.

In some cases products common in homes and that have certain chemicals are inhaled for intoxication. And teens may also use illicit drugs such as cocaine or methamphetamine.

Drug use can result in drug addiction, serious impairment, illness and death. Health risks of commonly used drugs include the following:

Cocaine. Risk of heart attack, stroke and seizures.
Ecstasy. Risk of liver failure and heart failure.
Inhalants. Risk of damage to the heart, lungs, liver and kidneys from long-term use.
Marijuana. Risk of impairment in memory, learning, problem-solving and concentration; risk of psychosis, such as schizophrenia, hallucination or paranoia, later in life associated with early and frequent use. For teens who use marijuana and have a psychiatric disorder, there is a risk of depression and a higher risk of suicide.
Methamphetamine. Risk of psychotic behaviors from long-term use or high doses.
Opioids. Risk of respiratory distress or death from overdose.
Electronic cigarettes (vaping). Higher risk of smoking or marijuana use. Exposure to harmful substances similar to cigarette smoking; risk of nicotine dependence. Vaping may allow particles deep into the lungs, or flavorings may include damaging chemicals or heavy metals.

Talking about teen drug use

You'll likely have many talks with your teen about drug and alcohol use. If you are starting a conversation about substance use, choose a place where you and your teen are both comfortable. And choose a time when you're unlikely to be interrupted. That means you both will need to set aside phones.

It's also important to know when not to have a conversation.

When parents are angry or when teens are frustrated, it's best to delay the talk. If you aren't prepared to answer questions, parents might let teens know that you'll talk about the topic at a later time.

And if a teen is intoxicated, wait until the teen is sober.

To talk to your teen about drugs:

Ask your teen's views. Avoid lectures. Instead, listen to your teen's opinions and questions about drugs. Parents can assure teens that they can be honest and have a discussion without getting in trouble.
Discuss reasons not to use drugs. Avoid scare tactics. Emphasize how drug use can affect the things that are important to your teen. Some examples might be sports performance, driving, health or appearance.
Consider media messages. Social media, television programs, movies and songs can make drug use seem normal or glamorous. Talk about what your teen sees and hears.
Discuss ways to resist peer pressure. Brainstorm with your teen about how to turn down offers of drugs.
Be ready to discuss your own drug use. Think about how you'll respond if your teen asks about your own drug use, including alcohol. If you chose not to use drugs, explain why. If you did use drugs, share what the experience taught you.

Other preventive strategies

Consider other strategies to prevent teen drug abuse:

Know your teen's activities. Pay attention to your teen's whereabouts. Find out what adult-supervised activities your teen is interested in and encourage your teen to get involved.
Establish rules and consequences. Explain your family rules, such as leaving a party where drug use occurs and not riding in a car with a driver who's been using drugs. Work with your teen to figure out a plan to get home safely if the person who drove is using substances. If your teen breaks the rules, consistently enforce consequences.
Know your teen's friends. If your teen's friends use drugs, your teen might feel pressure to experiment, too.
Keep track of prescription drugs. Take an inventory of all prescription and over-the-counter medications in your home.
Provide support. Offer praise and encouragement when your teen succeeds. A strong bond between you and your teen might help prevent your teen from using drugs.
Set a good example. If you drink, do so in moderation. Use prescription drugs as directed. Don't use illicit drugs.

Recognizing the warning signs of teen drug abuse

Be aware of possible red flags, such as:

Sudden or extreme change in friends, eating habits, sleeping patterns, physical appearance, requests for money, coordination or school performance.
Irresponsible behavior, poor judgment and general lack of interest.
Breaking rules or withdrawing from the family.
The presence of medicine containers, despite a lack of illness, or drug paraphernalia in your teen's room.

Seeking help for teen drug abuse

If you suspect or know that your teen is experimenting with or misusing drugs:

Plan your action. Finding out your teen is using drugs or suspecting it can bring up strong emotions. Before talking to your teen, make sure you and anyone who shares caregiving responsibility for the teen is ready. It can help to have a goal for the conversation. It can also help to figure out how you'll respond to the different ways your teen might react.
Talk to your teen. You can never step in too early. Casual drug use can turn into too much use or addiction. This can lead to accidents, legal trouble and health problems.
Encourage honesty. Speak calmly and express that you are coming from a place of concern. Share specific details to back up your suspicion. Verify any claims your child makes.
Focus on the behavior, not the person. Emphasize that drug use is dangerous but that doesn't mean your teen is a bad person.
Check in regularly. Spend more time with your teen. Know your teen's whereabouts and ask questions about the outing when your teen returns home.
Get professional help. If you think your teen is involved in drug use, contact a health care provider or counselor for help.

It's never too soon to start talking to your teen about drug abuse. The conversations you have today can help your teen make healthy choices in the future.

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Dulcan MK, ed. Substance use disorders and addictions. In: Dulcan's Textbook of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. 3rd ed. American Psychiatric Association Publishing; 2021. https://psychiatryonline.org. Accessed Jan. 24, 2023.
6 parenting practices: Help reduce the chances your child will develop a drug or alcohol problem. Partnership to End Addiction. https://drugfree.org/addiction-education/. Accessed Jan. 24, 2023.
Why do teens drink and use substances and is it normal? Partnership to End Addiction. https://drugfree.org/article/why-do-teens-drink-and-use-substances/. Accessed Jan. 24, 2023.
Teens: Alcohol and other drugs. American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. https://www.aacap.org/aacap/families_and_youth/facts_for_families/fff-guide/Teens-Alcohol-And-Other-Drugs-003.aspx. Accessed Dec. 27, 2018.
Drugged driving. National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/drugged-driving. Accessed Jan. 24, 2023.
Marijuana talk kit. Partnership for Drug-Free Kids. https://drugfree.org/drugs/marijuana-what-you-need-to-know/. Accessed Jan. 24, 2023.
Drug guide for parents: Learn the facts to keep your teen safe. Partnership for Drug-Free Kids. https://www.drugfree.org/resources/. Accessed Dec. 12, 2018.
Vaping: What you need to know and how to talk with your kids about vaping. Partnership to End Addiction. https://drugfree.org/addiction-education/. Accessed Jan. 24, 2023.
How to listen. Partnership for Drug-Free Kids. https://www.drugfree.org/resources/. Accessed Dec. 12, 2018.
Drug abuse prevention starts with parents. American Academy of Pediatrics. https://publications.aap.org/patiented/article/doi/10.1542/peo_document352/81984/Drug-Abuse-Prevention-Starts-With-Parents. Accessed Jan. 24, 2023.
How to talk to your kids about drugs if you did drugs. Partnership for Drug-Free Kids. https://www.drugfree.org/resources/. Accessed Dec. 12, 2018.
My child tried drugs, what should I do? Partnership to End Addiction. https://drugfree.org/article/my-child-tried-drugs-what-should-i-do/. Accessed Jan. 24, 2023.
Gage SH, et al. Association between cannabis and psychosis: Epidemiologic evidence. Biological Psychiatry. 2016;79:549.
Quick facts on the risks of e-cigarettes for kids, teens and young adults. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/Quick-Facts-on-the-Risks-of-E-cigarettes-for-Kids-Teens-and-Young-Adults.html. Accessed Jan. 30, 2023.
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Office on drugs and crime.

Information For

26 May 2003 Stockholm, Sweden

Young People and Drug Abuse: Prevention and Treatment Bliss technology won't bring back lost paradise Hell on earth is more likely

Your Majesty Queen Silvia, Distinguished Members of Parliaments, Ladies and Gentlemen

Last March, I addressed the Stockholm Symposium on Cannabis. I am back to this wonderful city thanks to the Swedish Government and in particular to the National Drug Policy Coordinator, Mr. Fries, our host.

Our subject is Young people and drug abuse : a compelling subject, so very appropriate for the distinguished members of the many parliaments represented here. My belief is that, working together during the next couple of days, we shall demonstrate that successful (drug) policy, aimed at youth, can have a human touch.

It is about the compassionate heart of drug policy that I wish to speak. And I shall do so, not to launch a new slogan, but as a tribute to you, Queen Silvia, whom I salute as the symbol of Sweden's commitment to save young lives from addiction. Your call for the "right to hope" in a life, both exciting and drug-free, was the wonderful testimonial you brought to political leaders attending the United Nations General Assembly Special Session on drugs in 1998.

Five years since your call, the world drug situation has changed dramatically. To some extent change has been for the better. Yet this undeniable progress has not gone as far or as fast, as we had desired. In part this is because the rules of the drug game kept on changing, at times forcing governments to chase -- rather than to lead -- events. This message I delivered to Ministers last April, during the meeting of the Commission of Narcotic Drugs. But we should not only point to unpredictable changes in external circumstances - they are part of life. We should also have the courage to blame ourselves: our children's "right to hope" is indeed intertwined with our societies' ability to deliver the conditions for that hope to materialize. And, at present, not all societies are equally committed to control the drug problem.

I remain convinced that we shall make better, and faster, progress towards a world not threatened by drug trafficking and drug abuse if, and only if, we stay the course defined by the international Conventions (of 1961, 1971 and 1988) and further mapped out in New York in 1998. Yet, although necessary, staying the course is not a sufficient condition. We also need to make clear the consequences of changing the course -- something not done adequately so far.

We need to communicate louder and clearer that the risks involved in abandoning half a century of drug controls are so high and the resulting public costs and private suffering so big, that the Conventions are not up for negotiation. This was the Ministers' unanimous view in Vienna last month. What is under consideration, starting here, today in Stockholm, are the ways and means to account for the dramatic changes taking place in the world of drugs, so that governments can maintain control of the situation and lead. I look forward to listening to the debate. As a contribution to it, let me consider three issues that deserve, I believe, special attention.

My first proposition is the following: drug abuse among young people, while not a normal occurrence, could become such . The chemical technology of bliss -- namely, the consumption of synthetic substances, like ecstasy and speed -- is blurring the notion of drug addiction as parents and governments alike are confused about the severity of their impact. Not surprisingly, in the last decade, the consumption of bliss substances by young people has become more serious than in the past.

My second proposition follows from the preceding one: while societies' sufferings are similar, governments' responses differ . They range from benign neglect of substance abuse, to robust intervention against it. These differences magnify the misunderstanding in society and facilitate the spread of misinformation about which country is doing what about the drug problem - including the related costs and consequences.

My third proposition brings the argument forward by calling for joint action: drug risks for the young are no longer confined within national borders . Today's culture has abolished time and space. Life styles are shared instantly and internationally. The presence here of parliamentarians from so many countries is an excellent opportunity to realize 1) that the problems your constituencies face are not unique, and 2) that we must therefore develop a shared understanding of what needs to be done.

Bliss technology is on the rise

Let me offer you some facts on the first proposition. There was already some discussion on cannabis during the international symposium held here last March. In the second half of the '90s, cannabis abuse throughout Europe increased dramatically among students. In some countries (Denmark, the Czech Republic, and Italy, to name just a few), lifetime use almost doubled, reaching the 25-35% range. Almost all other European countries registered an increase in the same period (ESPAD survey 1995 and 1999).

Thanks to another variation on the technology of bliss (in this case, genetic engineering of plants), the active ingredients of cannabis have become much stronger. Today, we find up to 20 per cent THC in cannabis compared to a fraction of that amount (2-3%) in the 1960s. (I still remember the smell of the weak marijuana smoked by the "flower kids" in Berkeley, my alma mater.) Even though more research is needed, the increased THC level may result in even more problems for quite a number of young people.

Stronger cannabis is only one item on young people's bliss technology-menu. The increasingly popular dish on the menu is synthetic drugs in general, ecstasy and speed in particular. In the United States, lifetime use of ecstasy among 12th graders has almost doubled (to 10.5%) since 1996 (Monitoring the Future survey, 2002). Ecstasy abuse has also increased considerably in Eastern Europe and Russia. Only in Western Europe has its consumption declined (from a relatively high level), as it has for cannabis (ESPAD surveys 1995 and 1999).

We therefore have a growing number of reports of serious health consequences, even among first-time abusers. Though such consequences may not be immediately visible, ecstasy's neurotoxins impact the brain and hurt major organs (liver and heart).

As synthetic drugs are simple to produce with ordinary chemicals, are simpler to take, and are (erroneously) perceived to be relatively harmless, the threat posed by their consumption is enormous. I have called them "Public Enemy Number 1". They may, in a not too distant future, replace organic drugs at the top of the list.

Although I have mainly spoken about rich countries (which are, as we all know, at the origin of the bliss technology production), manufacturing and addiction are spreading to other parts of the world: for example, to the Far East, where the problem has turned into an alarming epidemic. Slowly, young people in developing countries are catching up with the experience of their northern peers.

Although I have dealt with cannabis and ecstasy separately, they are not separate in young people's minds or experience, as poly-drug abuse is on the rise. It is actually at the origin of an increased number of deaths around the world - a sort of stealth cause of death, as many of them are not attributed to bliss technology products.

My first conclusion is the following: alarm bells should be ringing all over the world. The data about adolescents are especially worrisome, as adolescents are establishing behavioural patterns that will accompany them for a lifetime. On the front, however, news is not so good.

Mixed responses to a common problem

Indeed, and this is my second point, not everyone seems to hear the alarm bells. Responses in various countries have been mixed.

Some countries are maintaining a fatalistic approach, even benign neglect. Somehow, families, educators, and governments alike consider drug abuse as an inevitable part, and not an exception, of growing up.

This attitude has stretched up to the acceptance of policies such as testing of pills in discos to prevent the "unsafe" ingestion of unknown chemicals. The dubious message being sent out is that it is relatively "safe" to use these pills once they are checked. It is ironical that we test people on the road (namely, after alcohol consumption) to prevent drunken driving, and we test pills (namely, before intake), thus condoning driving under drug intoxication. And then we read on Monday's papers about the weekend road massacres!

The wish to "stand outside oneself" (the original meaning of the Greek word ekstasis ) has accompanied human beings from the moment they exited the Garden of Eden. Not surprisingly the temptation is still there, and the call still strong. Yet, how different is the ekstasis brought about by one's control of the mind as practiced by ascetics and hermits in the past, and the one induced by the technology of bliss today.

Karen Armstrong has recently described these differences quite aptly (The Guardian, 23 May 2003). " Our desire for transcendence and unfettered bliss has got out of control. Today young people simply swallow a pill and enjoy states of mind that have formerly been the preserve of a few highly talented mystics, but without the traditional safeguards " (first difference). She adds: " the purveyors of ecstasies are no longer well meaning, highly trained priests. They are unscrupulous dealers who have no concern for their victims, many of whom die in the search of joy, liberation and transcendence " (second difference).

At a time when religion is fading, family bonds are weakening and society is splintering, the technology of bliss poses a new, enormous threat. It "promises" young people to become Saturday-night "masters of the universe". Law enforcement alone cannot control this compulsion for ekstasis . Since these changes are societal, society as a whole needs to share the responsibility. I thus invite the parliamentarians in this Hall, true representatives of society, to examine what they can do to help.

The need for a common response

Countries apply the Conventions on drug control in accordance with local conditions. Yet, the increase in abuse among young people is no longer a matter of national variations. It is a global trend, driven by an increasingly global culture and increasingly trans-national crime syndicates. We need a common response. Above all, we should not think of backing down from the overall commitment to protect the health of our youth.

This commitment was unanimously confirmed at the recent Ministerial meeting in Vienna. The Drug Commission confirmed the importance of current international drug control mechanisms. Ministers stressed the need for innovative prevention based on experience. Here lies another gap: prevention efforts do not always speak clearly to youth and to the pressures they are increasingly facing.

For greater impact, we need to:

Understand how young people perceive drugs in their life, and develop our prevention efforts based on that;
Increase the confidence of young people so that they can deal with their problems, without turning to drugs;
Involve young people in healthy activities, for example in various forms of volunteer work at home and abroad, where substance abuse is combatted.

Above all, society should stop sending conflicting messages to young people. I call for responsible behaviour on the part of media and the music industry: their role models in relation to drug abuse is crucial.

Conclusions

All countries are part of the drug problem. Commitment by all countries is needed for its solution.

I have invited you to think globally, but let me also ask you to act locally. It is important that the United Nations Conventions and their goals are translated into national policies. Your role in this process is fundamental. Drug abuse by youth cannot be addressed in isolation. Questions of education, employment, social inclusion, sexual health, and others need to be considered.

Hopefully, at the end of this meeting, you will return to your constituencies with renewed energy and engage everybody -- voters and fellow legislators alike -- in our common effort: a healthy future for our children also depends on you.

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1 Minute Speech on Drug Abuse in English

Respected Principal, teachers and my dear friends, a wonderful morning to all of you. Today on this special occasion, I would like to speak some words on the topic- Drug Abuse.

The youth are extremely susceptible to such drugs. Deteriorating mental health and peer pressure lead vulnerable teenagers to indulge in drug abuse and become addicts. Drugs destroy lives, since drug addicts can see nothing beyond their need to take drugs. We must urgently deal with the problem of drug abuse!

Secondary School

Narcotics Control Bureau is organizing a declamation contest in your school as PART of it observance of International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. Write a speech in 150-200 words on the topic” Youth and Drug Abuse”.

Youth and drug abuse..

Explanation:

As the world is progressing many harmful ways of using drugs are also introduced with it.
Many new drugs have been created.
Myth, Oxy shot are some of the few.
These are quite popular among.
But they are unaware of the harmful effects it brings to their health.
From the lungs to livers, everything gets damaged.
One can suffer from cancer or asthma because of these.
We should adopt all measure to stop their usage.

Learn more here brainly.in/question/4019218

wish ing everyone , my honoura ble princi pal , my teach ers , and my dear friends very good mo rning .

I am ( your name ) , and I ha ve b een sel ected to deliver a speech on youth and drug abuse and I am grateful for receiving this opportunity and I am aware the people for stop their drug usage.

as the world is progressing many harmful ways of drugs are also introduced with it many new drugs have been created. myth oxy short are some of the few days are quite popular among but they are unaware of the harmful effects it brings to their health from the lungs to livers , ever ything gets damage d . one can suff er fro m cancer or asthama becau se of these . we sho uld adopt all measure to stop thei r usa ge .

so , we can see the the drug usage is very harmful for human life its damage the human and his mental condition so stop the usage of drugs and enjoy the happy and healthy life.

Thank you .

New questions in English

South East Bay Pediatric Medical Group | Fremont, CA

Request an Appointment: (510) 792-4373

2191 mowry ave. #600c, fremont ca 94538, mon-fri: 8:45 am – 5pm, sat/sun/holiday: call at 8 am for appointment, speaking to teenagers about substance abuse.

Having said all the above, most of you may skip reading the rest of this article thinking that your teen would never do drugs and that you don’t have to worry about this conversation. We urge you to read the statistics below, followed by techniques and recommendations on how to speak to your preteen or teenager about drugs. Please feel free to refer at-risk families to this article as well. This is a topic that every parent needs to be familiar with and in this section, we will try to help you navigate the first step. Of course, you can always call our office and make an appointment if more help is needed.

Before we proceed on how to start the “dreaded conversation” let’s discuss some facts:

According to the Monitoring the Future study (2008), an NIH funded study, 72% of adolescents drink, 55% have gotten drunk, 47% have tried an illicit drug, and 25% have tried an illicit drug, other than marijuana, by the time they reach senior year in high school.
One in four Americans, who begin using any addictive substance before age 18, have addiction problems later in life, compared with one in 25 Americans who started using at age 21 or older. Delaying the use of addictive substances for as long as possible should be a high priority for parents.
The Partnership for a Drug-Free America’s annual “Partnership Attitude Tracking Study,” the largest survey on drug-related attitudes in the United States, sampled the opinions of approximately nine thousand youngsters aged nine to eighteen. Three-quarters of the fourth-graders said that they wanted more information about drugs from their parents. Hint: 4th grade may be a good age to start the conversation.
Research shows that parents are central to preventing teen drug use. In fact, kids themselves say that losing their parents’ trust and respect are the most important reasons not to use drugs. As a parent, your actions matter. When you suspect or know, that your child has been drinking or using drugs, take action to stop it as soon as you can. It may be the most important step you ever take.
According to the 1998 survey, the stronger and more frequent the antidrug messages at home, the less likely a child is to become a user. Only 26 percent of adolescents who said their parents had taught them “a lot” about the dangers of drugs had smoked marijuana. But among youngsters who claimed to have learned “a little” or “nothing” from their families, the rates of pot use were progressively higher: 33 percent and 45 percent, respectively. That pattern remained consistent for other drugs, too. Overall, boys and girls whose parents ignored the issue were about two times more likely to use drugs than teens who learned “a lot” at home.
Individual negative risk factors include male gender, school failure, ADHD, learning disability, and other mental disorders such as anxiety and depression. Too many of our adolescents are self-medicating their anxiety and mood disorders with marijuana!
Negative family risk factors include genetic risks, a family member who is abusing alcohol/drugs, parent-child conflict, permissive or authoritarian parenting style, and divorce.
Substance using peers is also considered a strong community risk factor for drug use.
Individual protective factors include high self-esteem, emotional well-being, resilient temperament, and school achievement.
Family protective factors include frequent communication about alcohol and drug use, good parental modeling, eating meals together regularly as a family and involvement in your teenager’s activities.

Sign and symptoms of substance abuse can be very nonspecific, but here are some potential clues:

Declining school performance.
Change in dress and friends.
Sudden mood swings, either depression or euphoria.
Diluted or missing alcohol from parent’s home supply.
Stealing, lying, or missing money.
Increase in borrowing money
Use of incense, room deodorant or perfume to hide smoke or chemical odors
Increased secrecy about possessions or activities
Evidence of drug paraphernalia, such as pipes, rolling papers
New use of mouthwash or breath mints to cover up the smell of alcohol

There is one more step before you start the conversation with your child; it is very important that you talk to your spouse first. As parents you need to have a strategy and some “ground rules” that you both agree on. It is crucial for both parents to be on the same page before talking to your teenager. Here are the important topics that need to be addressed:

Leave no doubt as to where you stand: “You are not to use any drug, including tobacco or alcohol, under any circumstances.” Then explain why:

Because we love you.
Because drugs are dangerous, and we don’t want to see you harm yourself.
Because it is against the law.

As when setting any limit, clearly spell out the consequences for defying the rules: What will the punishment be and how it will be implemented? Make sure the new rules and consequences are reasonable and enforceable — such as a new, earlier curfew, no cell phone or computer privileges for a period of time, or less time hanging out with friends. You may want to get them involved in new or other activities that will keep them busy and help them meet new people.

Don’t hesitate to aim for the emotional jugular : Remind your teen that you would be deeply disappointed in his behavior if he were to disobey you on this matter. Research shows that when a child is deciding whether or not to indulge, a key consideration is, “What will my parents think?”

When discussing the dangers of drugs, emphasize the immediate consequences: Keep in mind the developmental status of your child. Younger teens tend to think mainly in terms of today, tomorrow and the next day. It’s not until much later in adolescence that teens begin to contemplate how their actions could impact their lives down the line. Teenagers are also still at a stage of thinking that they are invincible. Therefore, warnings that cigarette smokers are more than ten times as likely to die of lung cancer than nonsmokers are probably going to elicit little more than a shrug from a thirteen-year-old, or a twenty-year-old, for that matter.Instead, stress how smoking tobacco causes bad breath, hoarseness and a hacking cough, stains teeth yellow, impairs athletic performance, and in general makes other people not want to be around the smoker. In an American Cancer Society survey, eight in ten boys and seven in ten girls aged twelve to seventeen said they wouldn’t date someone who smoked.

Remind your teenager that smoking, drinking and drugging aren’t just harmful, they’re expensive: A youngster with a pack-a-day cigarette habit sees close to a thousand dollars a year go up in smoke. Surely your son or daughter could find better ways to spend all that money, whether it’s buying CDs and clothing or saving up for a car and college.

Appeal to an adolescent’s natural independent streak by praising his determination to avoid using drugs: “I admire the way you’ve stuck to your principles and refused to use drugs. It takes courage to not always go along with the crowd, and I’m proud of you.”

Explain to your child that once people start using drugs, they may not be able to stop: Addiction is poorly understood, by both substance abusers themselves and those who care about them. The young person with an addiction tells himself and everyone around him, that he can quit whenever he wants. But with prolonged use, the addictive substance triggers long-lasting changes in the chemical composition of the brain. At that point professional treatment is required to cure him of his compulsive behavior. Even then, many tobacco users, alcoholics and drug abusers will relapse and revert to their old ways.

Give them the words to avoid temptation . The peer pressure to try drugs is no less intense than the sexual pressure that so many adolescents face. As with any situation that could conceivably lead to trouble, we need to prepare our kids to refuse offers of alcohol and other drugs—preferably without alienating their peers, although sometimes that isn’t possible. “Just say no?” It’s a start, but few teens bent on enticing a peer to try drugs will let the matter rest there. In fact, substance abusers tend to view converting the “straight” kid as an irresistible challenge, if not their civic duty, and they can be exasperatingly persistent:

“C’mon, dude, you’ll love the buzz from this stuff! It’s kickin’.”

Role-play this scene with your youngster. The repertoire of possible replies includes:

A firm but friendly “No thanks!” There’s no need for self-righteousness, along the lines of “Getting drunk? That’s for losers.” Let’s encourage teens not to label other people as good or bad, only their behavior. Using drugs is wrong, but that doesn’t necessarily make the drug abuser a bad person.
Change the subject. “No thanks. Hey, what did you think of that test yesterday in social studies?”
Suggest a change of plans. “I was hoping to get you guys to shoot some hoops down at the school. How about it?”
Say no repeatedly: “ Wanna party with us? This weed rocks!” “No thanks.” “Aw, c’mon, man! It’s killer stuff!” “Sorry, not interested.” “Not even one toke?” “Not even one.”
Teach your child respect for her body. “No thanks, I don’t drink. Besides, the girls’ swim team has a meet tomorrow, and I need to be in top shape.”
Then there’s always this standby: “My parents would kill me if they found out that I got high, and they always manage to find out!”

Now that you have educated yourself about how to talk to your teen, all you need to do is sit him/her down and just start talking. You can go directly to the topic at hand or during a random conversation about friends or while watching a show on TV, just steer the subject to drugs and there you go! Do not fear that introducing the topic of drugs will put ideas into your children’s heads to use drugs. It will not do this any more than talking about traffic safety might make them want to jump in front of a car. You’re letting them know about potential dangers in their environment so that when they’re confronted with them, they’ll know what to do and they will know you care. If you hear something you don’t like (perhaps a friend smokes marijuana or your teen confesses to trying beer at a party), it is important not to react in any way that cuts off further discussion. If he seems defensive or assures you that he doesn’t know anyone who uses drugs, ask the question in a different manner. For example, ask him why he thinks people use drugs and carry on from there.

Tell yourself that you won’t “lose it” with your child . Be sure to have the conversation when all of you are calm and have plenty of time. Your feelings may range from anger to guilt, or you may feel that you have “failed” because your teen is using drugs. This isn’t true. This isn’t an easy task. By staying involved, you can help them stop using drugs and make choices that will make a positive difference in their lives. Anger and hostility won’t get you anywhere in this conversation. Stay as calm as possible. Remember, you are the parent and you are in charge. Be kind, simple, and direct in your statements to your child. Above all, remember to tell your child that you love him or her! The conversation will not be perfect – no conversation ever is. Know that you are doing the right thing for your child. That’s what matters most!

Parents are sometimes afraid that they will push their children away by talking to them about drug use. You may be worried that your child will get in trouble with the law and that it may affect his or her ability to qualify for scholarships or get a job. But teens who make a choice — one or more times — to use drugs or alcohol are at a crossroads and need your help. Overcoming your own fears is an important step in getting help for your child.

Be prepared for your teen to deny using drugs . Don’t expect them to admit they have a problem. Your child will probably get angry and might try to change the subject. Maybe you’ll be confronted with questions about what you did as a teenager. If you are asked, experts agree that it is best to be honest. Answering deceptively can cause you to lose credibility with your teen if they ever find out that you’ve lied to them.

Here are some final tips to keep in mind when you talk to your child:

Tell your son or daughter that you LOVE him/her, and you are worried that he/she might be using drugs or alcohol;
Let them know that you KNOW that drugs may seem like the thing to do, but doing drugs can have serious consequences;
Tell them it makes you FEEL worried and concerned about them when they do drugs;
Remember you are there to LISTEN to them;
Encourage them to be a part of the solution;
Tell your teen what you WILL do to help them.
KNOW that you will have this discussion many, many times. Talking to your teens about drugs and alcohol is not a one-time event.

Adapted directly from the American Academy of Pediatrics ( www.healthychildren.org ), and www.antidrug.com created by the National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign.

Speech on Drug Abuse

It’s very important to sensitize our youth on the subject of drug abuse. Drugs are destroying the lives of our youth and putting their future in a great darkness. The use of drugs is making their lives vulnerable and prone to destruction. Therefore, it becomes very important to raise awareness about it amongst our youth and prevent them from succumbing to it. You can even prepare a speech on drug abuse and deliver it on various occasions and platforms.

Long and Short Drug Abuse Speech in English

Speech on Drug Abuse 1

Dear Students – Warm Greetings to all of you! I welcome everyone to the school seminar hall.

Speech on Drug Abuse 2

Good Morning Friends – Welcome to the 77 th campaign for drug addiction ban.

The addiction of drugs has become one of the serious social problems in many developing as well as developed countries and it undeniably proves to be the principal obstruction in the all-round development of the people, society, country and the world at a large. Our country is a progressing country and it is already afflicted with so many other grave problems, such as unemployment, poverty and illiteracy that the problem of drug abuse makes the situation even worse here as it further makes our economy regressive by destroying the lives of its youth.

People can become addicted to drugs because of various reasons, some of which are mentioned below:

In order to de-stress themselves

Out of peer pressure

Many times, people start taking drugs because their friends are addicted to them. However, once they start taking it, it becomes really difficult for them to get rid of this habit.

Style Statement

Speech on Drug Abuse 3

Speech on Drug Abuse 4

Hon’ble Principal, Vice Principal, Fellow Colleagues and My Dear Students – Warm Greetings to one and all!

Related Information:

Essay on Drug Abuse

Paragraph on Drug Addiction

Best farewell speech for outgoing students, farewell speech for colleague, farewell speech for teacher, farewell speech for seniors, farewell speech for boss, gandhi jayanti speech.

IMAGES

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Teenage Drug Abuse In The United States: [Essay Example], 1000 words
(PDF) drug abuse amongst youth
Speech On Drug Abuse
️ Drug addiction speech in english. Drug addiction. 2019-03-06

VIDEO

fixing abuse part 2,3 and 4 (did you find more abuse write in the comments)
Esguerra, Edrine Frances A.- The Roots of Drug Abuse (speech)
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Problem with Youth
Essay
Essay on Drug Abuse in English ||

COMMENTS

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Speeches
Drug abuse by youth cannot be addressed in isolation. Questions of education, employment, social inclusion, sexual health, and others need to be considered. Hopefully, at the end of this meeting, you will return to your constituencies with renewed energy and engage everybody -- voters and fellow legislators alike -- in our common effort: a ...
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The youth are extremely susceptible to such drugs. Deteriorating mental health and peer pressure lead vulnerable teenagers to indulge in drug abuse and become addicts. Drugs destroy lives, since drug addicts can see nothing beyond their need to take drugs. We must urgently deal with the problem of drug abuse! To conclude, we must do our best to ...
Youth and Drug Abuse.
wishing everyone,my honourable principal, my teachers, and my dear friends very good morning.. I am (your name), and I have been selected to deliver a speech on youth and drug abuse and I am grateful for receiving this opportunity and I am aware the people for stop their drug usage.. as the world is progressing many harmful ways of drugs are also introduced with it many new drugs have been ...
Speaking to Teenagers about Substance Abuse
According to the Monitoring the Future study (2008), an NIH funded study, 72% of adolescents drink, 55% have gotten drunk, 47% have tried an illicit drug, and 25% have tried an illicit drug, other than marijuana, by the time they reach senior year in high school. One in four Americans, who begin using any addictive substance before age 18, have ...
Speech on Drug Abuse
Speech on Drug Abuse 1. Dear Students - Warm Greetings to all of you! I welcome everyone to the school seminar hall. Today, we are here to discuss about the fatal consumption of drugs and how it is destroying the lives of our youth. But before the discussion begins, I would like to deliver a short speech on drug abuse and would like to ...

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Long and Short Speeches on Drug Abuse in English

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People can become addicted to drugs because of various reasons, some of which are mentioned below:

2. Out of peer pressure

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विश्व पर्यावरण दिवस पर भाषण: विद्यार्थियों के लिए आसान हिंदी भाषा में भाषण

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Teenage Drug Addiction: An Overview

Teenage Substance Use Statistics

Basic Statistics

Substances Used

Prescription Medications

What Causes Teens to Use Drugs?

What Are the Effects of Using Drugs During Adolescence?

Effects on Brain Development and Growth

Substance Misuse and Mental Health

What Are the Health Risks of Drug Abuse?

Alcohol Statistics

Vaping and Edible Marijuana Use Is on the Rise

Over-the-Counter and Prescription Medications

E-Cigarettes (Vaping)

Cocaine Can Be Fatal With First Use

Ecstasy (MDMA)

Methamphetamine

Disease Transmission Risk

What Are the Signs a Teen Is Using Drugs?

Not All Warning Signs Indicate Drug Use

Substance Abuse Screening

What Are the Four Stages of Drug Addiction?

How Can Parents Prevent Teenage Drug Use?

How to Talk to Your Teen About Drug Use

Other Strategies

Protect Teens From Prescription Medications