Drugs of Abuse Know the Facts * Know the Dangers A Student Assistance Program for Red Ribbon Week 2008 Visit The Student Assistance Web Site

Marijuana – an illegal drug The main active chemical in marijuana is called THC. Short-term effects of using it: memory and learning problems; distorted perception (not seeing things as they really are); difficulty in thinking and problem-solving; loss of coordination; increased heart rate, anxiety, and panic attacks. Anger problems.

Marijuana – Myths vs. Facts Myth: Marijuana is a plant so it is safe. Fact: Most drugs come from plants and all can be dangerous and addictive. Myth: Marijuana is not addictive so it’s safe. Fact: Users quitting regular marijuana use suffer from the withdrawal symptoms of sleeplessness and anxiety. Myth: Marijuana is safer than cigarettes. Fact: One marijuana cigarette has the cancer causing properties of 20 cigarettes!!

Ecstasy – an illegal drug A man-made drug with hallucinogenic and amphetamine- like actions on the user. Short-term effects of using it: Confusion, depression, sleep problems, severe anxiety, and paranoia during and after taking it. Muscle tension, involuntary teeth clenching, nausea, blurred vision, rapid eye movement, faintness, and chills or sweating.

Methamphetamine– an illegal drug an addictive stimulant drug that strongly activates certain systems in the brain. Short-term effects of using it: Inability to sleep, increased breathing, hyperthermia, irritability, insomnia, confusion, tremors, convulsions, anxiety, paranoia, and aggressiveness. Hyperthermia and convulsions can result in death.

Steriods– not worth the risk Manufactured in a laboratory and are used to treat certain medical conditions to increase muscle and bone mass. Short-term effects of using it: negative effects include hostility, aggression, acne, hair loss, stunted growth, high cholesterol, liver cysts and cancer.

Huffing–it can kill you Volatile substances that produce chemical vapors when inhaled. Short-term effects of using it: heart palpitations, breathing difficulty, dizziness, headaches and possibly death. Long-term effects of using it: damage to the brain, nerve cells, heart, lungs, liver, kidney..

How to Refuse Drug Offers 1.Look the person in the eye. 2.Directly say no: “No thanks, that’s just not for me.” 3.Make an excuse: “My parents will ground me forever.” 4.Suggest something different: “Lets meet them at the mall.” 5.Leave or call for a ride if you feel uncomfortable.

Mr. Letson’s Reminders Drug use will mess up your physical and mental growth as a teen. Binge drinking alcohol can result in death. Don’t binge drink – EVER. Marijuana is not a “harmless” drug. It causes depression, anxiety, attitude problems and laziness. (and arrests!) Peer pressure is mostly in your mind -so don’t blame your bad decisions on others – BE YOUR OWN PERSON! ALWAYS call for a ride if you or your ride has been drinking or using drugs.