1. Drug Abuse
Chapter 2

2. Why people abuse drugs People who abuse drugs can develop an addiction
Addiction – the compelling need to continue a behavior even if it is harmful
Drug addiction can begin with a single act of drug abuse

3. Steps to addiction
Step One : Experimental Use – Person experiments with a drug such as alcohol or marijuana
Step Two : Occasional Use – Person takes the drug more frequently, perhaps daily. Tolerance is developed.
Step Three : Situational Use – Person uses drug when participating in certain activities or situations
Step Four : Intense Use – Person becomes preoccupied with the drug. He/She spends considerable time and money on the drug.
Step Five : Compulsive Use – Person becomes addicted – physically, psychologically, or both. Needs the drug daily or even hourly.

4. Signs of drug abuse Hangs out with friends who use harmful drugs
Stops hanging out with drug-free friends
May have a sloppy appearance
Glassy or red eyes and dilated pupils
Slurred speech
Lies about activities and whereabouts
Stops caring about school, family, and friends
Easily angered
Steals or borrows money
Stops participating in healthful activities

5. How to get help
Write down the warning signs of drug abuse that you observe
Share your concerns with a responsible adult
Listen to the advice of the adult who takes action
Recognize that you were responsible when you took action to get someone to help
Decide whether or not you need help

6. How can you stay drug free?
In this box, write down 5 ways you can stay drug free.