Drug abuse is one of the most widespread problems facing teens today. Due to peer pressure and a general feeling of invulnerability common amongst teens, as well as a natural inability to really comprehend the long term consequences of their actions that stems from brains that aren’t yet fully developed, they are in a very vulnerable position when it comes to trying things like drug use.

The best way to combat drug use is to make sure you discuss drugs and the serious consequences that can arise from drug abuse with them. You can’t watch them twenty four seven to make sure they make the right decisions but you can arm them with information and greatly increase the chance that they will.

Here are ten different categories of drugs that are commonly abused by kids.

1. Depressants – These drugs suppress the activity of the central nervous system and are often abused for their sedative or tranquilizing effects. Common depressants are alcohol, Valium, Xanex, Rohypnol, and GHB, otherwise known as the date rape drug.

2. Stimulants – These drugs stimulate the activity of the central nervous system and are often abused for the feelings of euphoria they can produce or to increase alertness or awareness. Common stimulants are nicotine, Ritalin, crack, cocaine, amphetamines and methamphetimines.

3. Narcotics – These drugs are used as pain relievers, cough suppressants, and anesthetics and are often abused for their numbing or sedative effects. Common narcotics are opium, heroin, morphine, codeine, OxyContin and Vicodin.

4. Hallucinogens – These drugs are mood alterers that often have unpredictable psychological effects and are abused for the hallucinations they produce or because they are thought by the users to elevate consciousness or creativity. Common hallucinogens are LSD and mescaline.

5. Dissociative anesthetics – These drugs are anesthetic agents and cough suppressants and are abused for the feelings of being disconnected from the body they produce. Common dissociative anesthetics are PCP, ketamine, and dextromethorphan or DXM.

6. Club drugs – Club drugs are drugs that are commonly used in party atmospheres such as clubs, bars, parties and concerts. These drugs include many drugs from the other categories such as Rohypnol, GHB and ketamine as well as drugs like Ecstacy.

7. Inhalants – These are substances whose chemical vapors can be inhaled to produce mind altering effects. While some inhalants such as nitrous oxide have medical applications, most inhalants are chemicals in common household and industrial chemical products. Common substances used as inhalants include gasoline, paint, glue, nail polish removers, freon, and anesthetics like nitrous oxide.

8. Cannaboids – The common use of the term cannaboids refers to substances in cannabis plant which are responsible for the plants pharamcological effects. Marijuana and hashish and their main active chemical THC are cannaboids and affect coordination, memory and mental acuity. Contrary to common rumors research has shown that marijuana usage does have detrimental health effects for the brain and lungs and can be addictive.

9. Cold medications – This group refers to over the counter cold medications that contain active ingredients such as dextromethorphan. These drugs are consumed in high dosages or concentrated. These medications can produce hallucinations and out of body experiences when taken at these high doses. Many kids falsely believe that since the medication is sold over the counter it is safe.

10. Steroids – Steroids is a term often used to refer to anabolic steroids, a group of drugs abused for their performance enhancing and muscle building effects. Use of these drugs can produce serious side effects such as liver tumors, high blood pressure and cancer.

All these drugs are dangerous when taken recreationally. Make sure your teen understands the dangers associated with the abuse of any of these drugs. Always keep the lines of communication open and let your teen know that whether they just want information or they have tried or have a problem with drugs, you are there to help them and provide them with the guidance they need.

Also, if you have not seen our first series Top 10 Ways List… Go Now The Best 30 Of The Top 10 Ways

As Always Be Safe Online, and if you find you have topic’s or ideas on other subjects that you would like us to investigate or create a list please email us our use our contact form.

Thanks for all the support and please Learn IT, Teach IT, Share IT…

Your Online Security Authority

Bill Wardell

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