Drugs

Why are Drugs so Hard to Quit?

People can heal from an addiction—especially when they get the support they need to relieve withdrawal symptoms, navigate triggers, and make positive changes. This video explores why many people find it difficult to control or stop drug use and how research conducted and supported by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) can help people find prevention and treatment strategies that work for them. Source: National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA/NIH), 2022

Teen Substance Use & Abuse (Alcohol, Tobacco, Vaping, Marijuana, and More)

“Substance use is when you take or ingest any substance, such as alcohol or drugs. Substance abuse is when you take or ingest more than what is recommended of a substance. For teenagers, it is recommended to avoid all substances because your brain is not fully developed.
Before you decide to use a substance, know the risks and potential consequences, or reach out to a health professional to talk about it!”

Oaisis Mental Health Applications, 2020

Marijuana

Marijuana is derived from the cannabis plant, and can be smoked, eaten, or consumed in other ways. Learn about the active chemical in marijuana, THC, which slows reaction time and causes memory problems, depression, and other issues.

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Discovery Education, 2020

Steroids

Steroids mimic the hormone testosterone, and can be used as a “cheat” to help boost muscle-building. Many undesirable physical symptoms result from steroids, including acne, yellowing of the skin, and baldness, in addition to affecting the brain.

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Discovery Education, 2020

Hallucinogens

Hallucinogens are substances that affect our brain’s prefrontal cortex, the area responsible for regulating moods, perceptions, and thoughts. Drugs like LSD, PCP, and hallucinogenic mushrooms can cause permanent negative symptoms. Watch Video Discovery Education, 2020

Stimulants

Stimulants like cocaine, methamphetamine, and Molly (ecstasy) alter the brain’s level of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that helps control emotions and sensations. Stimulants are highly addictive, and cause high blood pressure, paranoia, and more.

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Discovery Education, 2020

Inhalants

Many everyday products like paint, gasoline, and glue are perfectly safe to use, but they create fumes which are dangerous to inhale. Inhalants weaken the immune system and vital organs, in addition to impairing critical brain function. Watch Video Discovery Education, 2020

Depressants

Depressants are chemical substances like alcohol and certain prescription pills that slow down (or “depress”) the Central Nervous System. While doctors can safely prescribe depressants, misuse is damaging to both the brain and body.

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Discovery Education, 2020

How Naloxone Saves Lives in Opioid Overdose

Naloxone saves lives. This video reviews when naloxone is used, how it is administered, and the way it works.

National Library of Medicine, 2019