FACT 1: Different Drugs Cause Different Feelings and Physical Responses
- Various drugs, including dagga, heroin, Ecstasy, Mandrax, tik, and cocaine, are illegal and can lead to unpredictable effects.
- A substance may induce pleasant sensations for some while causing frightening reactions in others—even leading to fatal outcomes.
- The illicit drug trade is profit-driven, prompting dealers to cut drugs with various substances, some of which may be more harmful than the drugs themselves.
- You can’t always trust the appearance of drugs; what you receive today may differ from yesterday’s experience.
- The safest choice is to avoid taking drugs altogether. They can be ingested in multiple ways—swallowed, smoked, inhaled, or injected.
- Never underestimate the potential impact of drugs. Experience does not guarantee safety; even seasoned users can suffer fatal overdoses.
- Drug addiction compels users to seek stronger substances, often against their will, leading to serious health consequences.
UPPERS (Cocaine, Ecstasy, Speed, Crack-Cocaine, Tik)
- Uppers are designed to energize and elevate your mood, making you feel alive and dynamic.
- However, they can also trigger anxiety, paranoia, and even death due to the immense strain they place on the heart.
- Long-term use can damage your nerves, diminish your appetite, and disrupt sleep, often leading to the need for downers to manage withdrawal symptoms.
- This can create a cycle of depression and, in severe cases, suicidal thoughts.
DOWNERS (Dagga, Heroin, Mandrax)
- Downers can induce relaxation, but this effect is unpredictable.
- Long-term use may lead to lethargy, affecting daily functioning and relationships, particularly for students who may struggle with studies and assignments.
- Excessive use of potent downers like heroin can shut down bodily systems, potentially leading to death.
HALLUCINOGENS (LSD, Mescaline)
- These substances can cause intense hallucinations, altering your perception of reality.
- You cannot foresee whether these experiences will be enjoyable or horrific, and bad trips can result in lasting psychological effects.
FACT 2: Different People Respond Differently to the Same Drugs
- Individual reactions to drugs can vary significantly. Never base your decision to use a drug on someone else’s experience.
- Likewise, do not pressure others to use drugs based on your experiences.
FACT 3: The More Drugs You Take, the More You Need
- The initial high from a drug can be exhilarating, but as your body adjusts, you’ll require increasing amounts to achieve the same effect.
- This escalating tolerance signals a growing addiction, which often comes at a high financial cost.
- Many users turn to crime or high-risk behaviors to sustain their habits, leading to arrest or even tragic outcomes, including death at a young age.
- It’s important to note that addiction can happen to anyone, and no one starts using drugs expecting to become dependent.
FACT 4: Life Is Tough Enough, but Drugs Only Make It Tougher
- Facing life’s challenges can make drug use tempting as a means to feel vibrant or to escape reality temporarily.
- While drugs may promise instant gratification and a sense of peace, they ultimately strip away your ability to manage your life.
- Combining different types of drugs can be particularly dangerous, and the repercussions of drug use can exacerbate existing problems.
- If you find yourself overwhelmed, seek genuine help from someone who cares. Those who offer drugs often prioritize profit over your well-being.
Help Is Available
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, organizations like SANCA provide support and professional assistance.
SANCA 24-Hour Helpline: 0861 472 622
Remember, seeking help is a vital step toward recovery. You are not alone.