Substance use and misuse is a widespread problem in modern society. One of the biggest concerns that many parents have is their kids may start to experiment with illegal substances. Adolescents are especially at risk as it’s an age when many will start to try out these substances. Being able to spot the indications of drug use and being aware of some of the consequences they could have is a huge help. However dependable information is frequently hard to come by.

Thankfully there are a number of places you can go to when you need information about the most widely available drugs. There are several sites on the web that provide clear and concise information about the most widely used drugs and the effects they will have. You may use these resources to geta deeper understanding of the most widely used drugs and the negative effects they can have. Here is a quick look at some of the most commonly taken drugs and substances:

Alcohol

Alcohol is really a drug exactly like any other. Though it may be a legal drug it can have many health and social implications particularly if it is used by young people. As alcohol is so widely available it is one of the first drugs that lots of young people will experience. Adolescent and binge drinking has become a much more wide-spread in recent times and the number of young people hospitalised as a result of drinking reached record numbers in 2010. Alcohol can have both long-term and short term effects on health when it’s not used responsibly.

Marijuana

After alcohol marijuana is the drug that most teenagers are likely to encounter. Even though it is frequently seen as being relatively harmless it can result in serious health conditions. It could have a number of long-term implications for both mental and physical health. Using the drug in large quantities or fora prolonged time period can result mental health issues including paranoia and schizophrenia. Additionally, it may hinder the correct functioning of the immune system.

Amphetamines

These typically come asa powder and can be snorted, smoked or injected. The effects of the substance can differ from person to person but in most cases it produces a sense of euphoria, excitement and energy. Using amphetamines puts the body under a significant degree of stress. In the short term it results in raised heart rate and high blood pressure levels. Lasting effects may include stroke, cardiovascular failure, paranoia and depressive disorders.

These are simply some of the drugs that are available in Australia. If you’re concerned with drug use and misuse of someone you know contact professional help for drug treatment information.