Not all young people will experiment with alcohol or other drugs, but some will. While this may not always lead to problematic use, any amount of alcohol or drugs can have adverse effects.

All drugs and alcohol affect the way the body physically and mentally functions in ways we can often underestimate. Different people will react differently to drugs and alcohol, resulting in individual effects and experiences. These factors include:

• the amount taken and how quickly;
• whether it has been previously used;
• whether it has been mixed with other drugs;
• mood prior to use;
• general health and body type, gender and age.

There are three broad classifications of drugs; depressants, stimulants and hallucinogens. Depressant drugs, such as alcohol, cannabis or opiates (like heroin or codeine) are often used to relax. They slow down reactions and the body, sometimes to the point of passing out, and nausea, vomiting or even death. Stimulants, such as tobacco, amphetamines (speed), cocaine or Ecstasy are used to feel more awake. They increase heart rate, blood pressure and body temperature, can make the user more anxious or agitated to the point of paranoia or aggressiveness. Hallucinogens, such as LSD (Acid), magic mushrooms or cannabis change perceptions of reality and may cause hallucinations. This can cause accidents and out of character risk taking as well as anxiety, paranoia or panic.

People will use alcohol or other drugs for a variety of reasons, including:

• to feel part of a group or to fit in;
• experimentation, boredom or curiosity;
• to socialise with friends;
• to relax or escape problems;
• to feel confident.

The effects of alcohol and drugs are short and long-term and will vary based on what has been taken and who by; there are however a few effects that are common drug and alcohol use in general.

Physical effects of alcohol and other drug use can include:

• nausea and vomiting;
• shakiness;
• memory loss;
• difficulty concentrating;
• injury or illness;
• sleep problems;
• moodiness;
• stress and anxiousness;
• physical or psychological dependence;
• decreased emotional control;
• hangovers.

Social and emotional issues that are associated with alcohol and other drug use can include:

• taking more risks and acting irrationally;
• increased likelihood of being involved with violence;
• tense relationships with family or friends;
• major problems with or loss of family or friends due to use and associated behaviour;
• increased vulnerability;
• exaggerated mood;
• mental health problems;
• loss of money;
• work problems, even job loss;
• school/college problems.

Any alcohol or drug use can be problematic. Some signs that alcohol or dug use is a problem can include:

• health problems including high blood pressure, sexual performance problems or injury;
• not eating or sleeping properly;
• memory loss or confusion;
• feeling hung over in the mornings;
• difficulty coping with stressful situations, or using alcohol or drugs to help cope;
• needing to use more to get the same effect;
• frequent thoughts of drugs or alcohol;
• neglecting school or work;
• problems at work, school or with family and friends;
• legal or financial problems.

Alcohol and other drugs affect both body and mind and are associated with a range of mental health problems. If you are concerned about the effect alcohol or other drugs are having on your or someone else’s life it may be helpful to talk to a friend, a family member, doctor or a counsellor.

Further information on alcohol and other drugs is available from www.drugsalcohol.info.