Drug abuse is the use of drugs in a way that is harmful to the body or mind. It occurs when people take drugs unnecessarily or in excessive amounts, causing health, social, or legal problems.

• Cigarettes/tobacco.


• Alcohol.


• Cannabis (Indian hemp, marijuana).


• Cocaine, heroin, and other hard drugs.


• Prescription drugs taken without medical advice.

1. Stimulants – Increase alertness and energy (e.g., caffeine, cocaine).


2. Depressants – Slow down body functions (e.g., alcohol, sleeping pills).


3. Hallucinogens – Cause illusions or altered perception (e.g., marijuana, LSD).


4. Narcotics/Opioids – Pain relievers that are highly addictive (e.g., heroin, codeine).

1. Peer Pressure – Influence from friends or colleagues to try drugs.


2. Curiosity/Experimentation – Desire to try new things without knowing the risks.


3. Family Problems – Broken homes, neglect, or lack of guidance.


4. Stress and Frustration – Using drugs to escape pressure or personal problems.


5. Lack of Education – Ignorance about the harmful effects of drugs.


6. Poverty and Unemployment – Feeling hopeless and turning to drugs for relief.

1. Sudden change in behaviour or mood.


2. Poor performance in school or work.


3. Physical changes like weight loss, red eyes, or poor hygiene.


4. Isolation from family and friends.

1. Continuous use despite knowing harm.


2. Dependence on drugs to feel normal or happy.


3. Secretive behaviour or hiding drug use.


4. Physical and mental health deterioration.

1. Weakens the immune system and makes the body prone to diseases.


2. Can damage the brain, heart, liver, and other organs.


3. Causes addiction, making it difficult to stop using drugs.

1. Leads to broken homes due to neglect or violence.


2. Increases crime rates (theft, armed robbery) as addicts seek money for drugs.


3. Reduces productivity at school or work.


4. Can cause social isolation and loss of respect in the community.

1. Chronic diseases and permanent health issues.


2. Mental health problems (depression, anxiety, psychosis).


3. Loss of friends, family support, and social standing.


4. Addiction making quitting very difficult.

1. Education – Teaching students and the public about the dangers of drugs.


2. Parental Guidance – Parents monitoring and guiding their children.


3. Good Peer Groups – Surrounding oneself with friends who avoid drugs.


4. Recreational Activities – Engaging in sports, clubs, and hobbies instead of drugs.


5. Government Policies – Laws to control the sale and use of drugs.


6. Counselling and Rehabilitation – Helping addicts to recover and reintegrate into society.

1. Conduct awareness campaigns in schools and communities.


2. Encourage youth clubs and recreational programs.


3. Report drug peddlers to authorities.


4. Support rehabilitation centres for addicts.