Anti-Narcotics Message
by ACSBR NPCC
What is Drug Abuse?
Consuming / Using drugs without a doctor's prescription
Consuming/ Using more than what was prescribed by the doctor
Drug abuse can lead to addiction to a drug. When addicted to a drug, the addict has to depend on the drug for his/her daily activities. The addict would no longer be in control of his/her own life but becomes obsessed with the next fix.
Forms of Addiction or Dependence
PHYSICAL DEPENDENCE
Addicts are compelled to take the drug regularly or they would suffer from tremendous pain and discomfort.
PSYCHOLOGICAL DEPENDENCE
Certain chemicals in the drug will 'trick' the reward circuit into activating and 'fool' the brain into repeating this behaviour which leads to evil cycle of drug addiction.
Why do people abuse drugs?
Curiosity
People have a deeply curious nature and this fuels an eagerness to seek new experiences. However, this curiosity may in turn cause them to venture into the unknown and experiment with drugs for "kicks".
Enjoyment
Some people abuse drugs because they enjoy the "high" and "rush" that accompanies it. They may have the misconception that using drugs at a party or club is social activity with friends and drugs makes things more interesting or fun.
Lack of Direction
People with no goal or ambition in life tend to find themselves moving around with friends and peer groups aimlessly. Their lack of direction makes them highly prone to being lured into abusing drugs.
What are the consequences of Drug Abuse?
People who are addicted to drugs very often turn to crime as a means of paying for their addiction.
Due to addiction, those who started drug abuse in their youth are likely to lose interest and perform poorly in studying. They usually end up leaving school prematurely.
Addicts often show little interest in the well-being of others and are in turn rejected by family and friends. As addicts have problems seeking employment, many find that they are unable to support their families. This often results in additional family problems such as divorce.
Addicts can influence their peers negatively by persuading them to join in taking drugs.
How to identify a drug abuser?
Physiological Signs
1.Coughing, frequent salivation, spitting, dry mouth and throat
2.Progressive severe dental problems like bad breath
3.Chronic troubles with sinusitis or nosebleeds
4.Persistent cough or bronchitis, leading to coughing up excessive mucus or blood from lung damage
5. Sudden extreme weight loss or weight gain
Behavioural Signs
1.Loss of concentration or lack of attention
2.Unsteadiness, clumsiness, unpredictable behaviour
3.Dreamy state, hallucination
4.Loss of interest in personal care, appearance, food and family activities
5.Sudden decline in attendance or performance in school or work
6.Repeated failures in school, frequent job hopping
7.Frequently isolating oneself in places like storerooms, toilets and deserted corners
8.And lastly, being socially withdrawn
How to say “No”
In some cases, you may experience peer pressure and feel obligated to go along with the crowd, as you do not want your friends to think that you are “a chicken” or a coward. If you think through it, is it necessary for you to do everything your friends ask you to in order to maintain the friendship, even if what you do may harm yourself? Are you “a chicken” if you say "No"?
It is advisable to mingle with friends who are law-abiding. However, if you are in the situation where you are pressured by substance abusers, you have to be firm in saying “No”. You have to rise above the influence of drugs.
One way is to avoid drug abusers and risky situations. For example; avoid hanging out with people who are involved in drugs. You should also be aware of places where you suspect drugs would be used or situations when you may be offered drugs. If your friends get tough on you, it is advisable to walk away and talk to someone you trust about the matter. Remember; sometimes, walking away is the best decision.
Ways to lead a healthy lifestyle without drugs
Up for a Challenge? Take up a sport or pastime that you have not tried before, or break your personal record at something you are already good at!
Are you good at singing? Or dancing? Join peers to have a merry time by singing or join a dance club to learn dancing.
Looking to Relax? Unwind the day with your favourite music. Do some light reading. Meditate.
If you prefer an outdoor option, consider taking a leisurely stroll in or taking photos at the park or neighbourhood.