Using Multiple Drugs & Comparing Drugs / Question
Published: May 9, 2002
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I sometimes take drugs (stimulants = not often, hallucinogens = once a week, cannabis = any time Friday through Sunday) at weekends and this is not in any way a problem for me. I am perfectly happy with my use and I doubt anything you say would deter me (I've heard it all before). However I have been having difficulty focusing at school because I am often daydreamingplanningwhatever what and how I will be doing at the weekend. Most of what I use I make myself and I do extractions from (often legal) plants - so this gives me a lot to think about (there is the whole chemistry side of things which actually may be of more interest to me than the effects themselves). I am also slightly troubled by the fact I have deliberately become more "social" recently for the purpose of obtaining (and distributing) drugs - I have heard of people taking drugs to make friends, but I am making friends to take drugs - I am frequently frustrated by some of my friends reluctance to try things, though I do make an effort not to pressure anyone. Any ideas how I can improve my concentration and distract myself from thinking about drugs all the time - It makes me seem really boring, and I can't seem to muster an interest in any of my previous...interests.
Signed: Sometimes Take Drugs
Dear Sometimes Take Drugs,
FX has many concerns about your letter. It sounds as though your drug use is a bigger issue than you think. While you are happy with your drug use, be aware that the issues you listed are all signs that you have a problem. Pre-occupation with drug use, change in friendships, academic difficulties, and difficulty with concentration are all red flags that point to you going down a road you may have difficulty returning from. You indicated that there are elements of your drug use that you find bothersome, and you are frequently frustrated. Is it really worth it?
You say you only smoke pot on the weekend, and use hallucinogens one time a week, but it soon could lead to daily use. See High Times, Marijuana's Permanent Side Effects, and Smoking Cannabis- Can't Stop! for information on the affects of marijuana, and the consequences of long-term drug use.
Your use of hallucinogens is also a concern for FX. The risks associated with use of this substance has been studied and well documented. "Flashbacks" and "bad trips" are common, well publicized adverse effects from hallucinogens. A "flashback" is a recurrence of the effects of the drug long after it has been taken. A "bad trip" involves acute anxiety, paranoia, fear of loss of control and delusions.
FX recommends that you get some help. You should be concerned about your drug use and talk to someone such as a teacher, a parent, a guidance counselor, a doctor or a school nurse about a potential problem with drugs. You can also call Marijuana Anonymous @ 1.800.766.6779.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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