Alcohol and Other Drugs

Drug Use

Most teens and young adults who try drugs won’t develop drug use problems. But, for some, it can become a real problem.

There are many kinds of drugs and many reasons people try them or use them regularly. Some believe using drugs will help make them popular or help them manage problems. Others might just be curious or do drugs because their friends do.

Problematic use is when a person keeps using drugs even if they negatively affect their life. It's important to know how your drug use is affecting your life so you can decide if you need to make some changes.

Worried about a friend?

Friends are often the ones to notice a change. To learn how to support a friend, see Helping Others: For Friends.

Current as of: March 15, 2016

Author: Youth and Mental Health, Alberta Health Services

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This material is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified health professional. This material is intended for general information only and is provided on an "as is", "where is" basis. Although reasonable efforts were made to confirm the accuracy of the information, Alberta Health Services does not make any representation or warranty, express, implied or statutory, as to the accuracy, reliability, completeness, applicability or fitness for a particular purpose of such information. Alberta Health Services expressly disclaims all liability for the use of these materials, and for any claims, actions, demands or suits arising from such use.

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