Substance Abuse Categories and Examples

STIMULANTS They increase the activity of the central nervous system (examples Cocaine, Crack, Crystal Meth, Caffeine, Ecstasy and Tobacco).

Effect of Stimulants Range Increased blood pressure appetite loss increased alertness dilated and dried out bronchi restlessness insomnia Paranoid reaction temporary psychosis irritability convulsions Heart palpitations

Cocaine – “Rich man’s drug” Cocaine is a drug obtained from the leaves of the coca plant. It is a stimulant an appetite suppressant, and a topical anesthetic. It can be taken orally, snorted, or injected. High only lasts about 30 mins. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hxnd-A-emPI

Crack – “Poor Man’s Drug” Crack is the crystal form of cocaine. It is more pure and stronger. It may also be termed as “a rock.” High only lasts about 15 mins.

Crystal Meth Crystal Meth is a psychostimulant. It increases alertness, concentration, energy, and in high doses, can induce euphoria, enhance self-esteem, and increase libido. It can be injected, smoked, or snorted. High can last 8-12 hours! http://www.methproject.org/answers/what-does-meth-do-to-your-brain.html?gclid=CMfO0v3SrLYCFeRxOgodvksAWw#The-Brain-on-Meth – 3 mins http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KddpFdVf4JU – 29:30 mark

“Meth Mouth” http://www.methproject.org/answers/what-is-meth-induced-psychosis.html#Psychotic-Behavior – interactive psychotic behavior http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJcolHaSF8w – Christina’s bad trip – 3:30 mins

DEPRESSANTS They reduce or dull the activity of the central nervous system (examples include Alcohol, tranquillizers, and Xanax)

Effects of Depressants: Relaxation, lowered inhibitions* (<- remember this is the reason why alcohol is not an aphrodisiac!!!) reduced intensity of physical sensations digestive upsets body heat loss reduced muscular coordination suppression of pain lowered blood pressure and respiratory rate constipation disruption of menstrual cycle sleep

HALLUCINOGENS They alter perceptions of reality and results in hallucinations and delusions (examples include LSD, and Magic Mushrooms).

Effects of Hallucinogens Alteration of mental processes distorted perceptions confusion Vomiting sedation euphoria increased appetite psychosis hallucinations anxiety attacks panic stupor

Magic Mushrooms Psilocybin mushrooms possess psychedelic properties. Commonly known as "magic mushrooms," "zoomers" or "shrooms." Some countries that have outlawed their sale. Psilocybin mushrooms have been reported as facilitating profound and life-changing insights often described as mystical experiences. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qFuL7pcShDk 7:30 min

LSD or Acid Lysergic acid diethylamide (abbreviated LSD) or as acid, is a semisynthetic psychedelic drug. LSD is well known for its psychological effects which can include altered thinking processes, closed and open eye visuals, synesthesia, an altered sense of time and spiritual experiences. It was well known for its key role in 1960s counterculture. LSD may trigger panic attacks or feelings of extreme anxiety, referred to as a “bad trip.” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3aZre1Lib0o - Drugs Inc. full episode; 9:30

LSD or Acid