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Introduction

Good day, students.

We are here from the Lions Clubs International to talk about something that affects many young people today drug abuse. Our aim is to help you understand what drugs are, how they should be used, the dangers of abuse, and how you can protect your future.

What Is a Drug?

A drug is any substance that, when taken into the body, changes how the body or mind works.
Drugs can come as tablets, syrups, injections, powders, or herbs.

When used correctly, drugs are beneficial. They help to:

  • Relieve pain and sickness,
  • Prevent or control diseases,
  • Help the body recover from illness.

However, drugs must only be taken when prescribed by a qualified health professional.
Taking drugs without medical advice can be dangerous because every drug has a correct dose, a right time, and a right reason.

Why You Should Seek Medical Advice Before Taking Any Drug

  • Some drugs can cause harmful side effects if not taken properly.
  • Wrong drugs can worsen your condition or cause new health problems.
  • A doctor or pharmacist knows which drug is right for you and how much to take.
  • Self-medication can lead to drug resistance or addiction.

What Is Drug Abuse?

Drug abuse means using drugs in a wrong or harmful way such as taking drugs not prescribed to you, taking more than the required amount, or using them for the wrong purpose (for fun, excitement, or to escape problems).

Examples include misuse of painkillers, cough syrup, tramadol, marijuana, inhalants, alcohol, and other harmful substances.

 

What Is Substance Abuse?

Substance abuse refers to the misuse of any chemical substance not only drugs that affects how the brain works.

List examples ……..It includes alcohol, glue, cigarettes, cocaine, codeine, and other toxic substances that people inhale, smoke, or swallow for pleasure.

Substance abuse can quickly lead to addiction, a condition where the person cannot stop using the substance even when it causes harm.

How Drug and Substance Abuse Affect Young People

Adolescence is a period of growth physically, mentally, and emotionally. When young people take drugs, it interferes with this growth and causes serious damage to the body and mind.

Effects include:

·        Poor concentration and memory, making it hard to study.

·        Aggressive or violent behaviour.

·        Loss of interest in school or activities.

·        Anxiety, depression, or mental illness.

·        Addiction, crime, and early death in severe cases.

Organs Affected by Drug Abuse

Drugs can damage nearly every part of the body, including:

  • Brain: affects memory, judgment, and behaviour.
  • Heart: causes irregular heartbeat and heart failure.
  • Liver: leads to liver disease or failure.
  • Kidneys: damages filtration and causes poisoning.
  • Lungs: from smoking or inhaling harmful substances.
  • Reproductive organs: leading to infertility and sexual problems.
  • Skin and teeth: poor hygiene and infections.

How to Identify Someone Under the Influence of Drugs

You can often tell when someone is under the influence of drugs by observing:

  • Sudden mood swings or irritability,
  • Unusual smell from breath or clothes,
  • Red or watery eyes,
  • Poor school performance,
  • Loss of appetite or too much eating,
  • Secretive behaviour, staying away from family and friends,
  • Lack of sleep or excessive sleeping.

If you notice these signs in a friend or classmate, encourage them to seek help from a teacher, counselor, or parent.





What Young People Need to Do

1.    Stay focused on your goals. Remember that every wrong step today can destroy your tomorrow.

2.    Choose friends wisely. Avoid those who encourage harmful habits.

3.    Keep busy with positive activities sports, reading, volunteering, or creative hobbies.

4.    Say “No” firmly when offered drugs. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for doing the right thing.

5.    Obey your parents, teachers, and school rules. They guide you because they care about your safety.

6.    Avoid curiosity or peer pressure. Be confident in making good decisions.

7.    Speak up when you are stressed. Talk to someone you trust — a parent, teacher, counselor, or religious leader.

Seeking Help and When to Do So

Seek help immediately if:

  • You have already started using drugs and want to stop.
  • You feel pressured by friends to use drugs.
  • You notice changes in your health, behaviour, or school performance.

Help is available through teachers, school counselors, hospitals, community health centers, and support organizations like the Lions Clubs International.

Preventive Skills

  • Knowledge: Learn the truth about drugs don’t believe rumours.
  • Confidence: Build self-esteem so you can say “no.”
  • Communication: Talk about problems instead of hiding them.
  • Decision-making: Think about the consequences before acting.
  • Positive friendships: Surround yourself with people who inspire you to grow.
  • Discipline: Follow family, school, and religious values that promote self-control.

Conclusion

Dear students, drug abuse is not a sign of strength it is a trap that steals your future little by little. You have the power to make better choices. Respect your parents, listen to your teachers, obey school rules, and hold on to your dreams.

Remember: “Your future is brighter than any temporary feeling drugs can give.”

Choose life. Choose hope. Say no to drug abuse.








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