What is a drug?
A drug is any substance that causes a change in people’s mental, emotional or physical state. Legal drugs such as alcohol and tobacco are commonly used. Prescription drugs such as painkillers, sleeping pills, tranquillizers and antidepressants have their place in health care when used properly or under medical supervision.
However, the abuse of these drugs and the use of illegal drugs such as cannabis, cocaine, LSD, amphetamines and heroin can cause problems in people’s lives.
You’ll find information about these and many other drugs in this section of our website.
Why do people take drugs?
People start taking drugs for many reasons: curiosity, pleasure, to fit in with a group of people, or to help them cope with boredom, anxiety, lack of confidence or other social problems.
How many teens use illegal drugs?
Most teens don’t use illegal drugs. In a 2005 survey of Alberta students in grades 7 to 12, about 25% said they had used an illegal drug in the year before the survey.
What is drug abuse?
Drug abuse means taking one or more drugs in a way that puts you or others at risk of getting hurt. Here are some examples:
- taking a lot of a drug at one time
- taking a prescription drug without a prescription
- taking a prescription or over-the-counter drug in a way it’s not meant to be used
- taking several drugs (including alcohol) at the same time
- using drugs too often
- using drugs for a long time
What are the risks of drug abuse?
- health problems
- tolerance (having to take more of the drug to get the same effect)
- physical dependence (your body needs the drug just to feel normal)
- psychological dependence (you feel like you can’t get by without the drug)
- overdoses, which can cause serious injury or even death
- relationship problems with family and friends
- problems at school or work
- legal problems
- money problems
Problems related to drug use may start quickly or develop over time. Often, family members and non-using friends can tell someone has a drug problem long before the person who is using drugs can.
If you’re concerned that you or someone you know might have a drug problem, we’re here to help. AADAC Youth Services can be found in communities and schools across Alberta.
For more information, contact your local AADAC office or call 1-866-33AADAC.
