UnderstandingThe Effects Of Drugs And Alcohol

COMMONY USED DRUGS:

ALCOHOL

Alcohol is a mood altering chemical that depresses bodily functions.

Long term drinking can increase the risk of:

Liver Disease
High Blood Pressure
Cancer
Heart Disease
Stroke

MARIJUANA

Marijuana is a hallucinogen and is the most frequently used illegal drug in the U.S.

Short term affects:

Memory and learning
Loss of coordination
Anxiety and panic attacks
Distorted perception
Increased heart rate
Difficulty thinking & problem-solving

Long term affects:

Daily cough and phlegm
Difficulty sustaining attention Difficulty registering, processing & using info
Symptoms of chronic bronchitis

COCAINE

Cocaine is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that can cause heart rhythm disturbances and:

Heart attacks
Respiratory Failure
Seizures
Abdominal Pain
Gastrointestinal complications
Chest pain
Strokes
Headaches
Nausea

METHAMPHETAMINE

Like cocaine, methamphetamine is a potent stimulant that may cause:

Increased heart rate
Irregular heartbeat
Increased blood pressure
Respiratory problems
Anorexia
Cardiovascular collapse
Death
Irreversible damage to blood vessels in the brain, producing strokes

Central Nervous System Effects:

Irritability
Insomnia
Confusion
Tremors
Paranoia
Aggressiveness
Convulsions
Anxiety
Hyperthermia
Convulsions

Did You Know That…..

Alcohol can cause sexual dysfunction and infertility.
One joint of marijuana contains cancer causing substances equivalent to one-half to one pack of cigarettes.
In the U.S., 70 people are killed daily in drunk driving accidents.
Psychotic symptoms from meth can persist for months or even years after use has stopped.
1 in every 4 suicides involves alcohol.
Strong psychological dependency can occur with just one "hit" of crack.
Alcohol plays a role in 50% of all arrests.
Regular cocaine use can upset the chemical balance of the brain resulting in a speed up of the aging process, causing irreparable damage.
People who use marijuana have lower achievement scores then non-users, are more likely to accept deviant behavior and have more aggressive behavior.

Are Drugs or Alcohol Use Affecting Your Life Or Someone You Know?

The following lists possible signs of substance abuse:

Bloodshot eyes, runny nose
Financial problems due to use
Family members or friends approaching you about your use
Sneaking drugs or alcohol
Lying about chemical use
Excessive absences and/or tardiness
Binging
Loss of friends due to use
Loss of control while using
Legal issues due to chemical use
Blackouts
Drastic weight change

If you are concerned about your drinking or drug use or the use of a family member please contact a T.E.A.M. counselor. We can provide further information or can help set up an appointment for a chemical dependency evaluation. Our counselors are available over the phone 24 hours a day.

To talk with a T.E.A.M. counselor or to schedule an appointment call:

651-642-0182 or 800-634-7710