Stuff That Isn't True About Drugs

Myth #1: You have to use drugs for a long time before you become addicted

Fact: It is possible to become addicted to drugs the very first time you use them. No one can predict who will become addicted to drugs and who won't. Everyone is unique, and our bodies and minds react differently to many different things, including drugs.

Some people use drugs many times before they become dependent, while others use once or for a very short time.  Still others don't seem to become dependent. The bottom line is that any time someone chooses to use a drug, they are taking a risk with their body, mind and very life.

Myth #2: Marijuana is harmless; it's almost legalized anyway

Fact: Marijuana is one of the most damaging drugs available worldwide. Risks include addiction and brain damage in the form of memory loss, mood disorders and increased risks of mental illness.

Some surprising facts:

• Over 50% of youth ages 12-17 yrs of age who entered into a drug treatment program in BC did so to address marijuana abuse
• Youth who use marijuana regularly are twice as likely to develop psychosis later in life (psychosis is a mental illness symptom where the person is no longer in touch with reality)

Marijuana is an illegal substance in Canada. You can be charged for having even a small amount of marijuana on you.

Myth #3: Alcohol isn't really a drug.  It's legal to use when I'm 19 so what's the big deal if I use it a few years early?

Fact: Alcohol IS a drug, just a more widely-used and socially acceptable one than illegal drugs. Adults are able to use it legally, but that doesn't mean it's good for you. For example, cigarettes are legal but we all know the health risks associated with smoking, like cancer and heart disease.

Alcohol use can damage every organ in your body, including your brain. This is especially important, because as a youth your brain has not fully developed, and it can be forever altered. You can more significantly damage your brain drinking as a youth than drinking as an adult, because an adult brain is fully formed, whereas the brain of a teenager is not.

Finally, drinking creates changes in your perceptions and behaviour. Things you would never do may seem like no big deal once you've had a few drinks. You are at a much-increased risk of unplanned sexual activity, unwanted sexual activity or sexual assault, sexually transmitted infections, unexpected pregnancy, criminal activity and violence when you are drinking.

Myth #4: Most kids try drugs; it's normal

Fact: Actually, drug use is considered abnormal behaviour. Most youth do NOT try or use drugs at all, including youth here in Surrey. One survey states that the number of BC youth who use alcohol and marijuana has steadily decreased over the last 5 years. Another study estimates that less than 25% of youth use marijuana regularly. This is good news!

Remember, everyone is NOT using drugs and drinking, even though it may feel that way sometimes.

A province-wide survey revealed that 47% of B.C.'s population have never tried marijuana and only 7% use it regularly.

Myth #5: Only people who use drugs every day have a problem or are addicted.

Fact: Not true! Problem use is not only described by how often someone uses, but by how much of a negative impact drug use has on their life and by their ability to stop.

For many people, problematic use begins as a way of coping with feelings that we don't like to feel; for example, anger, sadness, hurt, unworthiness, loneliness, fear, anxiety. They may feel that drug use numbs those feelings and makes them easier to bear.

The trouble is, that only works temporarily before these issues become so big they can't be ignored. Drug use itself then presents a whole range of issues - altered behaviour, lack of care for school or relationships, poor hygiene, debt due to borrowed money or drugs, increased feelings of desperation and fear, and quite possibly addiction.

The "solution" one used (drugs) quickly becomes the biggest problem.

The best thing you can do to keep yourself well and healthy is find a hobby or other outlet for your feelings. Do something that makes you feel good and takes your mind off of your troubles. We all have them - find a way to de-stress!

Here are some examples:

• Play sports, either on a team or with friends
• Go for a walk or run
• Play your favourite music
• Write or read poetry
• Sing!
• Act, either in a drama group or with friends
• Dance like no one's watching
• Do yoga
• Read a great novel or write a great novel
• Keep a journal or diary
• Watch your favourite movie or tv show
• Check out the PSST website!
• Go to the gym for a workout
• Hit the pool or hot tub
• Hang out with good people who care about you