Drugs are any substance, other than food, that is taken to change the way the body or mind functions.
People use drugs for many reasons including:
- For medicinal purposes. (For example, to ease pain or fight infection)
- For relaxation. (Especially in social situations, to lower inhibitions or to make people feel more lively and friendly)
- To cope with or to forget problems.
- For religious or ceremonial purposes.
- For pleasurable sensations.
- For a sense of “belonging” to a certain group.
- Out of curiosity about a drug’s effect or a desire to experiment.
Legal Drugs
Legal drugs include any drug that is regulated by the Federal Government of Canada. These include (among others) medications, alcohol, cigarettes and caffeine. While their primary goal is to treat and prevent medical conditions, they also have the potential to be abused or used for recreational purposes.
You should always read the label of any prescription or over-the-counter drug carefully and always follow the advice of your doctor.
Facts
- Since 1998, the sales of prescription drugs and over-the-counter drugs have soared in Canada. In 2005, the value of these sales surpassed the $20 billion mark for the first time (Statistics Canada).
- The amount spent ‘out of pocket’ (expenses not covered by a medical plan) on prescription drugs per Canadian household rose by 70% between 1992 and 2002. In 2002 the average Canadian household spent $218 ‘out of pocket’ on prescription drugs, up 71% from and average of $127 in 1992 (Statistics Canada).
- These drugs are regulated under the Canadian Food and Drug Act and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act depending on the type of drug.
Illegal Drugs
Illegal drugs are usually produced (grown or manufactured) for sale on the street. Marijuana, LSD, cocaine and heroin are just a few examples of drugs included in this category. They are produced and used mainly for recreational purposes.
Illegal drugs can be defined as a chemical or other substance that is ingested in order to produce a mood altering affect.
- Although some drugs have medical uses, the majority of illegal drugs are used only for recreational purposes.
- These drugs are considered to be psychoactive (mind altering) and can be broken down into three major categories: stimulants, depressants and hallucinogens.
- Why do people use illegal drugs?
People use illegal drugs for a variety of reasons including:- To experiment
- To fit in
- To relieve stress
- To cope with emotional problems
- To escape
- To become less inhibited
- According to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, in 1999 approximately 1 in 3 Ontario High School students has used an illicit drug.
- Illegal drugs are often made in secret laboratories with little regard for purity, safety and reliability. They may also be cut or diluted with harmful substances
- Drug use may be linked to mental and emotional problems.
- When people use drugs they risk becoming dependant or addicted. They also risk problems with the law.
Illegal drugs fall under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
Need Help?
Drugs become a problem when the use of a drug results in negative consequences for the person using the drug. These may be physical, mental, social, emotional, legal, economic or environmental consequences.
If You Think You Have a Problem with Drugs…
If you think you have a problem with prescription, over-the-counter or any other kind of legal or illegal drugs, talk to a trusted counselor, doctor or health professional in your community. If you do not feel comfortable talking to a doctor, school counselor or your parents, call the Kids Help Phone (1-800-668-6868) a completely free and confidential resource for youth or visit them at www.kidshelpphone.com
If You Think Someone Else Has a Problem with Drugs…
Talk to them about it. Offer to go with them to seek help. If they deny having a drug problem, express your concerns to an adult you trust: a family member, someone who works at your school, a nurse, a social worker or coach. They will most likely be able to help you out or direct you to other members of your community who can.
For more information on specific drugs or on addictions, please see the Knowzone section of our website.