There are various types of drugs currently available on the market. Though a few are permissible to ingest, most drugs that top the list of most-used substances are highly illegal and constantly abused. There are different reasons as to why a specific drug may be deemed "popular." For example, price, availability, or method-of-absorption could affect whether or not a particular drug is overused. If you are a parent worried about your child becoming involved with drug usage, or you have fallen into drug usage yourself, this information can prove invaluable in allowing you to identify problems.
Overused Drugs
It's easy to understand how alcohol and tobacco are commonly exploited; they're both legal and easy to purchase. However, even illegal drugs that are less available and more difficult to buy are frequently abused. According to NIH, these drugs include:
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Heroin
- Prescription Drugs
- Methamphetamine
Each drug is different from the other, and when consumed (in any amount)can cause, a variety of consequences. Even, a drug overdose. Whether smoked, snorted, or injected, each substance leaves the user wanting more – unchecked, this can cause dependency, addiction, suicide, or an accidental overdose.
Motives for Using Drugs
Every drug evokes a range of feelings and affects your body differently. It's important to assess what each drug specifically does to your body:
- Marijuana
- Affects your perception, coordination, and memory
- Cocaine
- Psychological changes to a person's physical and emotional state
- Affects the brain and nervous system
- Heroin
- Can cause heart disease, lung disorders, and collapsed veins, and death
- High risk of getting HIV and/or hepatitis
- Prescription Drugs
- Can cause a lack of energy, breathing difficulties, trouble concentrating
- Methamphetamine
- Leads to paranoia, insomnia, aggression, and depression
Getting Help
If you or someone you know is addicted to drugs (whether those described above or something different), it is important to get help immediately. Though most users experience only the short term consequences, using drugs can have long lasting and permanent effects on the body, sometimes resulting in death. It's vital to seek assistance through therapy or rehab.
