Why do men use drugs?
What are the risks?
Symptoms of drug misuse
Signs of drug dependence
It is common knowledge that the way to avoid the risks of drugs is to avoid drugs altogether. But if you're going to take drugs then you should at least know about them, and the risks that come with taking them.
Why do men use drugs?
- To enjoy the short-term effects - the 'highs'.
- To improve work, sport, and sexual performance .
- Curiosity.
- Peer pressure.
- Because the drugs are there and available.
What are the risks of taking drugs?
- You can't be entirely sure how the drug will affect you, even if you've taken it before.
- You can rarely be sure how pure the drug you are taking is, or what it has been mixed with.
- You can't always be sure what the strength is. This means that there is a chance that you could overdose without realising.
- Injecting drugs puts you in danger of contracting hepatitis B , hepatitis C , or HIV , the infection that causes AIDS.
| Some specific examples of drugs and their major health risks: |
| Amphetamines ('speed') |
Anxiety , panic attacks , hallucinations, heart damage with long-term use. |
| Cannabis |
Impotence , low sperm count, anxiety, paranoia, depression . |
| Cocaine |
Fatal heart problems, convulsions, depression. |
| Ecstasy |
Over-heating and dehydration from over-exertion, liver and kidney problems, possible brain damage. |
| Gases, glues, aerosols |
Blackouts, fatal heart problems, brain damage. |
| Heroin |
Breathing problems, injecting causes vein damage, and the risk of contracting hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or HIV infection. |
Symptoms of drug misuse
Drug misuse is associated with:
- Relationship problems.
- Domestic violence.
- Loss of employment.
- Crime.
Possible signs of drug dependence
- Changes in behaviour, (mood swings, irritability, greater unreliability.)
- Deterioration in health and appearance.
- Not showing up for work.
- Decline in work quality.
- Increased involvement with crime and police.
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