Are you or a friend struggling with substance abuse? Here’s what you need to know.
No matter what you may think or what society may tell you, you are enough.
Take the first step toward finding your worth with a short self-examination.
The biggest thing you can do for yourself if you’re struggling with mental health or substance misuse is to talk to someone.
Live Your Best Life.
Saying “no” to drugs and alcohol is a great start to living your best life. But there are many other positive choices you can make that have nothing to do with illicit substances.
Check out six areas of your life that will help you find your worth.
Know the Consequences
When you smoke, vape, or misuse drugs or alcohol, there will be some negative effects. And the potential consequences go much further than just health risks or punishments. Below are just some examples.
Health Risks
Weakened immune system
Changed brain chemistry
Possible death
Punishments
Family: Grounding and lost privileges
School: Detention or expulsion
Legal: Arrest or fines
Social Effects
Loss of parents’ trust
Broken friendships
Negative peer pressure
Internal Effects
Lower self esteem
Apathy (lack of caring)
Tendency toward other addictive behaviors
Don't be fooled. LEARN THE FACTS
There’s a ton of misinformation out there about alcohol and drugs, especially on the internet. For example, lots of YouTubers that are paid to “review” vaping products make it seem like they’re totally safe. But it’s dangerous to trust biased sources. Click on each substance to get the real story behind each.
Being a teen is tough.
For some, it's even tougher
Today’s teens are dealing with more than probably any other time in history. Bullying, the pressures of social media, the distractions of technology and the stress to get ahead in school and sports all take their toll. But some teens have even more to face. Sexual, physical or emotional abuse, neglect, food insecurity and homelessness, chronic illness or living with an adult who’s an addict are all forms of trauma. It’s important to address these issues and not turn to alcohol or drugs to deal with them.
Feeling restless or jumpy
Nausea, trembling or dizziness
Muscle tension or headaches
Racing heart or shortness of breath
Loss of interest in daily activities
Appetite or weight changes
Sleeping a lot more or less than usual
Trouble concentrating or remembering
Talking about wanting to die, even jokingly
Feeing trapped or in unbearable pain
Withdrawing or isolating yourself
Feeling like you’re a burden to others