When teens are given the scientific facts about drugs they can be better prepared to make good decisions for themselves and they can share this information with others.  National Drug Facts Week began in 2010 by National Institute on Drug Abuse scientists to promote educational events and opportunities for teens to learn about drug use and addition.  Follow the hashtags #drugfacts or #NDAFW this week to shatter the myths surrounding drug use.

The Annual National Institute on Drug Abuse National Drug Facts Week takes place from January 22-28, 2018 and is the perfect opportunity to learn more and help shatter the myths about drug use for teens.

A drug is any chemical substance that can change how your body and mind work. Drugs of abuse are substances that people use to get high and change how they feel. They may be illegal drugs like pot, cocaine, or heroin. Or they may be legal for adults only, like alcohol and tobacco.

People Abuse Drugs for Many Reasons

• They want to feel good. Taking a drug can feel really good for a short time. People keep taking drugs to have those good feelings again and again. But even though someone may take more and more of a drug, the good feelings do not last. Soon the person is taking the drug just to keep from feeling bad.
• They want to stop feeling bad.  Some people who feel very worried, afraid or sad abuse drugs to try to stop feeling so awful. This does not really help their problems and can lead to addiction, which can make them feel much worse.
• They want to do well in school or at work.   Some people who want to get good grades, get a better job, or earn more money might think drugs will give them more energy, keep them awake, or make them think faster. But it usually doesn't work, may put their health at risk, and may lead to addiction.

Wondering how you can Take Part in NDFW?

There are plenty of ways to get involved:

• Participate in the Annual “Drug Facts Chat Day” on January 22, 2018.
• Host a local event in your community ─ don’t forget to register it online.
• Distribute the “Drugs: Shatter the Myths” booklet, and other resources, to teens.
• Partner with the National Institute of Drug Abuse.
• For more ideas and the latest news, visit the National Drug Facts Week website.

Information Source

• National Institute on Drug Awareness