Drugs Information

Addiction

What are the signs of addiction?

Here are some signs and symptoms to look out for if you are concerned about the possibility of a loved one being involved with substance abuse of any kind. Different drugs produce different effects resulting in slight variations in outward indications. Some signs and symptoms are specific to opiates and narcotics and distinct from those experienced with Central Nervous Stimulants like Cocaine or depressants like alcohol.

* Seclusive behavior - long periods spent in self imposed isolation.
* Change in friends, hanging out with a new group.
* Long, unexplained absences.
* Lying and stealing.
* Involvement on the wrong side of the law.
* Deteriorating family relationships.
* Obvious intoxication, delirious, incoherent or unconscious.
* Changes in behavior and attitude.
* Decrease in school / work performance

Can a person be to young to have problems with drug addiction and alcoholism?
There is no minimum age requirement for a person to have alcoholism or drug addiction. In recent years there has been a trend in which younger and younger people have begun to experiment with alcohol and drugs. Statistically, people who begin to use at a young age have higher chances of becoming dependent and addicted. Drug addiction and alcoholism do not discriminate and the affect people across all backgrounds, ages and classes.

Young people are sighted as being part of the underground party scene, also known as as Raves at which club drugs such as ecstasy, LSD, and other synthetic pills are taken. Harder drugs such as cocaine, speed and heroin are also available to young teenagers at these parties. Fake Ids are another way that young people are able to gain access to alcohol. In many cases alcohol and drugs are readily available and parties or through friends of friends. Although experimentation may seem innocent, becoming addicted to drugs or alcohol is a very serious problem. Young adults as old as twelve and thirteen are being admitted into rehabilitation facilities for the treatment of addictions.

Is it possible to become addicted to a drug even if you have only tried it once?
In most cases a person will not become addicted to a drug if it is only tried once, however highly addictive drugs such as heroin and amphetamines may create a craving, even after the first use. A person who has tried a drug once may want to continue to use the drug, thus developing and dependence and addiction. Having obsessive thoughts and creating schemes to get more of the drug may indicate mounting addictive tendencies. All illicit drugs are dangerous and should not be tampered with, however, once a person is addicted to a drug seeking proper substance abuse treatment is one of the most productive possible options.

Should a person that uses marijuana on a daily basis seek substance abuse treatment?
Marijuana contains the chemical THC which is a mood and mind altering drug. THC occurs naturally in marijuana plants and when taken into the body causes a ‘high’ feeling in the brain. Marijuana is most commonly smoked, although it can be ingested in the form of various foods. It has not been scientifically proven that marijuana or THC is addictive, however if used over extended periods of time in a habitual manner, a person can develop a dependence on marijuana.

Many people use the justification that, marijuana is not physically addictive, therefore they do not have a problem, however, marijuana can negatively affect a persona life on a number of different levels. Marijuana decreases short-term memory capacity, creates confusion, paranoia, anxiety and restlessness. In addition marijuana can negatively impact a personas motor skills as well as his/her ability to feel emotions. Marijuana is often used in combination with other drugs and treatment for marijuana abuse is available and readily utilized.

Can you become addicted to club drugs such as ecstasy?
Ecstasy or MDMA has a chemical structure similar to hallucinogens and stimulants. The drug commonly comes in the form of a pill and is swallowed. Research shows that ecstasy is not a physically addictive drug however users do build up a tolerance to the drug quickly. People who use ecstasy regularly may find that they start to believe they are unable to function normally without the drug. Even if ecstasy is not physically addictive, it is extremely detrimental to the body and mind. Ecstasy can cause muscle meltdown and has caused death because of excessive dehydration and organ (kidney & liver) failure.

What does heroin addiction do to a persons life?
Heroin is one the most addictive drugs on the market. Heroin is an opioid and a depressant, meaning it slows down the brains ability to function. Heroin is usually injected and can also be smoked and snorted. Heroin created a highly desirable sense of pleasure and euphoria and almost immediately creates a craving for more of the drug.

A person who becomes addicted to heroin has no desire to do anything but to get more heroin. He/she will most likely lie, cheat or steal in order to find the next high. People addicted to heroin lose relationships, especially those that are most important to them and are unable to function in daily life. People who inject heroin, meaning they use it intravenously are at risk for diseases such a HIV, AIDS and hepatitis. Heroin addiction can lead to debt, insanity and death. Many people do recover from Heroin.

How can the Donnycarney Youth Project help me or a loved one?
Here at the Donnycarney Youth Project we listen, we do not judge, we respect every human being. We can help guide you in the right direction for recovery. We offer a safe and friendly enviroment where you can talk to our trained counsillers and get involved in one our our many projects to help people on substance abuse.

For specific information on a spefic substance please click one of the links below.

Cocaine Heroin Tablets Cannibis