National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week
National Drug & Alcohol Facts Week
March 17-23, 2025
Welcome to National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week! This week, we’re diving into the facts and busting the myths around substance use. We’ve put together important information on various substances, their effects, and how to stay informed to make healthy choices. Stay with us throughout the week as we explore the following topics:
Understanding the Facts About Marijuana
While marijuana is often seen as harmless, it can have serious effects on the brain and body, especially for young people. Research shows that marijuana can impact memory, learning, and even IQ. It’s important to understand the risks, especially if you or someone you know is considering using it.
Key Facts:
- Marijuana can impair memory and learning.
- It can affect concentration and overall brain function.
- The long-term effects on youth are still being studied.
Stay Informed: Be aware of how marijuana can affect your health, especially if you are a young person or in your developmental years.
The Hidden Dangers of Vaping
Many people believe vaping is a harmless alternative to smoking, but this is far from the truth. E-cigarettes contain nicotine and other chemicals that can harm your lungs and overall health. Vaping can lead to lung damage, addiction, and other long-term health risks.
Key Facts:
- Vaping still delivers nicotine, which is addictive.
- E-cigarette vapor contains harmful chemicals.
- Vaping is linked to lung issues, including vaping-associated lung injury (VALI).
Stay Informed: Understand that vaping is not a safe alternative to smoking and can have serious health consequences.
Understanding Alcohol and Its Risks
While alcohol is legal, it can still be dangerous, especially when consumed in excess. Too much alcohol can lead to addiction, liver damage, accidents, and impaired judgment. It’s crucial to drink responsibly and be aware of the potential consequences of overindulgence.
Key Facts:
- Excessive drinking can lead to liver damage, addiction, and other health issues.
- Alcohol impairs judgment, which increases the risk of accidents.
- Responsible drinking means understanding limits and drinking in moderation.
Stay Informed: Know the risks and practice safe drinking habits. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol, don’t hesitate to seek help.
The Risks of Prescription Pills and Hard Drugs
Prescription drugs are often more dangerous than people realize. Even medications prescribed by a doctor can be addictive when used outside of medical guidelines. Hard drugs, like heroin and cocaine, carry even greater risks. The dangers of these substances cannot be understated.
Key Facts:
- Prescription pills can be addictive, especially opioids.
- Taking drugs outside of their prescribed purpose can lead to overdose or death.
- Hard drugs carry extremely high risks of addiction and long-term damage.
Stay Safe: Always use prescription medications as directed, and seek professional help if you or someone you know is struggling with substance use.
Join Us in Raising Awareness
We’ve dedicated this week to spreading the truth about substance use, and we encourage you to stay engaged. If you have any questions, concerns, or want to share your experiences, we’d love to hear from you in the comments. Let’s work together to break the myths and build a healthier, more informed community.
Resources:
If you or someone you know needs help, here are some resources to get support:
- National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
- Local Support Resources
Thank you for being part of National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week! Together, we can raise awareness, bust myths, and create a healthier future.
We encourage everyone to share this page with their networks to help spread awareness. Stay informed, stay safe, and let’s continue learning together!