Drug Abuse Chapter 2

Why people abuse drugs People who abuse drugs can develop an addiction Addiction – the compelling need to continue a behavior even if it is harmful Drug addiction can begin with a single act of drug abuse

Steps to addiction Step One : Experimental Use – Person experiments with a drug such as alcohol or marijuana Step Two : Occasional Use – Person takes the drug more frequently, perhaps daily. Tolerance is developed. Step Three : Situational Use – Person uses drug when participating in certain activities or situations Step Four : Intense Use – Person becomes preoccupied with the drug. He/She spends considerable time and money on the drug. Step Five : Compulsive Use – Person becomes addicted – physically, psychologically, or both. Needs the drug daily or even hourly.

Signs of drug abuse Hangs out with friends who use harmful drugs Stops hanging out with drug-free friends May have a sloppy appearance Glassy or red eyes and dilated pupils Slurred speech Lies about activities and whereabouts Stops caring about school, family, and friends Easily angered Steals or borrows money Stops participating in healthful activities

How to get help Write down the warning signs of drug abuse that you observe Share your concerns with a responsible adult Listen to the advice of the adult who takes action Recognize that you were responsible when you took action to get someone to help Decide whether or not you need help

How can you stay drug free? In this box, write down 5 ways you can stay drug free.