Intruduction to drug use and drug abuse.

Can drug addiction be treated?
Treatment is possible. Ithelps people stop using the drugs they're addicted to. It can include talk therapy, medicine, or both. It helps them learn to fight the urges to use drugs again, and it helps them regain control in their lives. When someone quits taking drugs and starts learning how to live life without drugs, we say he is "in recovery." Treatment is available for new drug users, heavy users, and addicts. No matter your condition, there is help available.

Helping yourself and someone you love
If you have tried to use any kind of drug, and feel bad about it, or feel it is on your mind to try it again, or you are still doing it, speak to your parents or a trusted adult immediately. Don't wait. They can help you make the smartest choices.

If you have a friend or family member who has started using drugs or is hanging out with bad company, here is what you can do:

Talk to an adult
Teachers, parents and school counselors or social workers will have ideas that can help you talk to your friend about drug use. Ask for ideas to help them if you do not want to name anyone. They are specially trained to deal with teens and drug use.

Take a risk
Talking to your friend about his drug use is not an easy thing to do, as it can make him angry. Try and spend some quiet time with him (not in quiet, hideouts that will put you in trouble), and let remind him of the dangers and potential problems they are getting into. Speak to them only when they are sober. If they are angry, you may have to stay away from them. But continue to care for them and share ideas with them.

Remind them that help is available
Sometimes people want confidential help because they do not want anyone to know about their situation. This is OK. Try and research and find them a counseling service around. You can always ask adults (teachers or parents) about places for teen counseling, and give your friend the information.

Be careful yourself
You can also be tempted into drugs one day. Knowing the facts like what you are doing now is a great way to stay away and say NO! Be careful of bad company and stay far away. Do not even entertain them. If your good friends have fallen to drugs, be careful they do not drag you into it.