Why do people take drugs?

In general, people begin taking drugs for a variety of reasons:

• To feel good and better .

Most abused drugs produce intense feelings of pleasure. This initial sensation of euphoria is followed by other effects, which differ with the type of drug used. For example, with stimulants such as cocaine, the "high" is followed by feelings of power, self-confidence, and increased energy. In contrast, the euphoria caused by opiates such as heroin is followed by feelings of relaxation and satisfaction.Some people who suffer from social anxiety, stress-related disorders, and depression begin abusing drugs in an attempt to lessen feelings of distress. Stress can play a major role in beginning drug use, continuing drug abuse, or relapse in patients recovering from addiction.

• To do better.

Most athletes take drugs because they want to make the best or not satisfied with the performance of their own. Beside that, they might also stressed the training schedule, pressure to meet the expectations of others or to meet the requirements of an events. Athletes may have several reasons for using performance-enhancing drugs. An athlete may want to: • Build mass and strength of muscles and/or bones • Increase delivery of oxygen to exercising tissues • Mask pain • Stimulate the body • Hide use of other drugs Many drugs are banned outright in Olympic competitions. However, some drugs, such as cortisone and local anesthetics, are merely restricted because they have legitimate clinical uses. Athletes may also misuse drugs to reduce weight, relax, cope with stress or boost their own confidence. Whatever the reason, doping has many unsafe if not deadly side effects. .

• Curiosity and "because others are doing it.

" In this respect adolescents are particularly vulnerable because of the strong influence of peer pressure; they are more likely, for example, to engage in "thrilling" and "daring" behaviors. So much has been written and said about drugs that many people are tempted to experience them out of curiosity. The first taste, and its effect on the user, greatly influence whether the individual continues taking drugs. the younger the age at wich an individual first tries drugs, they more apt he or she is to try them again (Drug Danger and Social Behaviour. Dr.Bhim Sain.p192)

• Peer preasure

Youth who are in universities or schools often give reasons that they take drugs because of depression with various problems. For example, university students who are short of time for the test will be revised by taking drugs to prevent drowsiness and add a sense of confidence during the exam.

• Peer influence

Teenagers have various peer relationships, and they interact with many peer groups. Some kids give in to peer pressure because they want to be liked, to fit in, or because they worry that other kids may make fun of them if they don't go along with the group. Others may go along because they are curious to try something new that others are doing. The idea that "everyone's doing it" may influence some kids to leave their better judgment, or their common sense, behind. While parents can't protect their children from experiencing peer pressure, there are steps they can take to minimize its effects. Children and teenagers feel social pressure to conform to the group of peers with whom they socialize. This peer pressure can influence how children dress, what kind of music they listen to, and what types of behavior they engage in, including risky behaviors such as using drugs, cigarettes, and alcohol, and engaging in sex. The intensity of peer pressure differs from situation to situation. Influence of peers can lead teenagers to take drugs. This happens because a person is easily affected and do not have a strong stance. for example, there is a group of teenagers taking the drug as a condition of their membership.

Source :(Nora D. Volkow, M.D. Director National Institute on Drug Abuse) Drugs and crime . Chapter two "why people take drugs" by Marcella Frster And Joe Sheehan. First publisher in 1992 by Wayland(publisher)Ltd. PTSL HV 5826. F673 Drug Danger and Social Behaviour. Dr.Bhim Sain.p192 Posted by AZIZI (A127463)