drugs and alcohol
There are loads of different types of drugs; some are illegal and others are not. Basically, drugs work by altering your body's natural state, affecting you physically and mentally. A big problem with taking illegal drugs is that you never really know what effect they are going to have on you. Even if you have taken a drug a few times in the past - your body can react differently, or the drug itself has been mixed with something else.
Drugs can have a big impact on your mental health. The effects can vary greatly, depending on the type of drug and the person taking it. Stimulants and amphetamines, like speed and cocaine, affect the central nervous system and can cause anxiety. Other drugs, like cannabis, have been linked to panic attacks, schizophrenia and paranoia.
Taking drugs can also bring any underlying or pre-existing mental illness to the surface. If you or someone in your family has experienced mental health problems, taking drugs is a really bad idea.
Download a factsheet for more information on the Psychological Effects of Street Drugs.
Find out more about Cannabis and Mental Health
Help & Support...
FRANK - a website and confidential helpline offering information and guidance on drugs.
Addaction - the UK's biggest drug and alcohol treatment charity, their services are free and confidential.
Drugscope - provides authoritative and reliable information on all aspects of drugs, drug use and the harms they cause.
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