Global Issues
Role Of Drugs In Youth & Legislation Regarding Drugs In The World -By Maira Nadeem
Drug use and addiction are preventable. Prevention programs involving families, schools, communities, and the media may prevent or reduce drug use and addiction. These programs include education and outreach to help people understand the risks of drug use.
Drugs are substances that have physiological effects when ingested, inhaled, or injected into the body. They can alter the functioning of the brain, nervous system, and other bodily systems, leading to various physical and psychological effects.
Young people who persistently abuse substances often experience an array of problems, including academic difficulties, health-related problems (including mental health), poor peer relationships, and involvement with the juvenile justice system. Additionally, there are consequences for family members, the community, and the entire society.
There are two types of Drugs:
- A CLASS DRUGS
- B CLASS DRUGS
| A CLASS DRUGS | B CLASS DRUGS |
| Heroin | Alcohol |
| Cocaine | Opium |
| Hashes | Cannabis |
| L.S.D Tablets | Gutka |
| Ecstasy Tablets | Paan |
| Crystal Ice | Bangh |
| Injection | Solvent drugs |
Role of drugs in youth
Young people’s brains are growing and developing until they are their mid-20. This is especially true of the prefrontal cortex, which is used to make decisions. Taking drugs when young can interfere with developmental processes occurring in the brain. It can also affect their decision-making. They may be more likely to do risky things, such as unsafe sex and dangerous driving.
The earlier young people start using drugs, the greater their chances of continuing to use them and become addicted later in life. Taking drugs when you are young can contribute to the development of adult health problems, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and sleep disorders.
There are many different reasons why a young person may take drugs, including:
- To fit in. Young people may do drugs because they want to be accepted by friends or peers who are doing drugs.
- To feel good. Abused drugs can produce feelings of pleasure.
- To feel better. Some young people suffer from depression, anxiety, stress-related disorders, and physical pain. They may do drugs to try to get some relief.
- To do better in academics or sports. Some young people may take stimulants for studying or anabolic steroids to improve their athletic performance.
- To experiment. Young people often want to try new experiences, especially ones that they think are thrilling or daring.
Different factors may raise a young person’s risk for drug use, including:
- Stressful early life experiences, such child abuse, child sexual abuse, and other forms of trauma
- Genetics
- Prenatal exposure to alcohol or other drugs
- Lack of parental supervision or monitoring
- Having peers and/or friends who use drugs
Signs that a young people has a drug problem?
- Changing friends a lot
- Spending a lot of time alone
- Losing interest in favorite things
- Not taking care of themselves – for example, not taking showers, changing clothes, or brushing their teeth
- Being really tired and sad
- Eating more or eating less than usual
- Being very energetic, talking fast, or saying things that don’t make sense
- Being in a bad mood
- Quickly changing between feeling bad and feeling good
- Missing important appointments
- Having problems at school – missing class, getting bad grades
- Having problems in personal or family relationships
- Lying and stealing
- Memory lapses, poor concentration, lack of coordination, slurred speech, etc.
Drug use and addiction are preventable. Prevention programs involving families, schools, communities, and the media may prevent or reduce drug use and addiction. These programs include education and outreach to help people understand the risks of drug use.
You can help prevent your children from using drugs through:
- Good communication with your children
- Encouragement, so your children can build confidence and a strong sense of self. It also helps parents promote cooperation and reduce conflict.
- Teaching your children problem-solving skills
