Kids Helpline
Drugs and Alcohol
You might see your friends experimenting with drugs and alcohol and it’s got you curious. It’s important to know that drugs can be harmful. Learn how they can impact your body and mind and who can help.
What are drugs?
A drug is a chemical that changes how your body and mind work.
The most common types of drugs are:
- Everyday substances - coffee and prescription medication
- Legal (for people over 18) – cigarettes and alcohol
- Illegal – speed, cocaine, ecstasy, cannabis (marijuana)
Most drugs are illegal for people under the age of 18, as they’re very harmful to your health and wellbeing.
Why do people use drugs?
There are lots of reasons why someone might use drugs and alcohol. Some people use drugs to:
Relax
Feel good
Celebrate
Feel confident
Fit in with friends
Cope with feelings
Escape feelings
Experiment
What are the risks of using drugs?
Because drug use can have serious risks, most drugs are illegal for people under 18.
Drugs can be harmful to your mind and body, especially while you're still growing and changing.
Other problems that drugs can cause are:
- Addiction
- Overdose
- Death
- Illness or injury
- Loss of friendships
- Problems at home
- Impact on school work
- Poor decision making
- Trouble with the law
- Negative side effects eg dehydration, feeling sick
- Issues with memory, problem solving and learning
Who can help?
If you’re thinking about using a drug, or worry about your own or someone else’s drug use, here’s who can help:
Doctor or nurse
School counsellor
Trusted adult
Vaping myths & facts
Have you ever been curious about trying vaping? Or maybe you’re trying to give it up?
Here are the facts you need to know!
Vaping is the inhaling of a vapour created by electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), or 'vapes'. Vapes come in lots of different flavours, which can sound appealing to use/try - and they are often marketed in a way that makes them seem like a safe alternative to smoking. Most e-cigarettes actually contain nicotine and other harmful substances, which can be addictive and be harmful for your health.
How can counselling help?
Counselling can be a way to help you:
Talk about what’s worrying you
Understand why you’re drawn to using drugs and alcohol
Talk about how drugs and alcohol can affect you
Find out information, tips and who else can help
Find ways to cope without using drugs and alcohol
Help you weigh up the pros and cons of drug and alcohol use
Learn how to limit drug and alcohol use
Learn ways to reduce the risks
Tips for staying away from drugs and alcohol
It can be hard to turn down the offer of drugs or alcohol in the moment, especially when you’re hanging out with friends.
Here are some suggestions that can help:
Learn more about certain types of drugs and the impact they can have
Don’t be afraid to say no – if they’re true friends they’ll respect your choice
Talk about it with your friends – share your worries around drug use so they know not to pressure you into doing something you don’t really want to do
Walk away or make an excuse to leave if you feel pressured or uncomfortable
Plan ahead – if you think there might be drugs or alcohol at a party, plan what you might say or do if you get into an uncomfortable situation
Be true to yourself – stick by your choices and don’t give in to the need to ‘fit in’
Talk to someone – if you’re feeling pressured or have concerns around drug use, talk to someone you trust
"Everybody is different. We can help you figure out where you stand with drugs and alcohol."
Remember, you’re not alone
Kids Helpline is always open.
Give us a call, start a WebChat or email us today.
If you need more information for other services and resources, check out Head to Health.
This content was last reviewed 28/04/2023
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