Drugs: Know the Fact
Drug Facts
With so many voices and opinions out there, it’s important to understand the facts. The fact is that while you’re a teen (and even into your early 20’s!), you’re still growing and developing, and drug abuse during these years in particular can have a lasting impact.
Another fact to consider: the brain is much more vulnerable to addiction during these years.
It is also a fact that many in Gibraltar with a substance abuse problem started smoking, drinking or using other drugs before they were 18 years old.
Some people can get addicted to drugs while others have bad reactions - so bad that some have died. Drugs can also trigger mental health problems like psychosis, anxiety or depression.
When it comes to drug use, individual reactions and experiences vary, so it’s important to understand the usual risks and effects, both short- and long-term. Knowledge can be the key to making your own best decisions.
There's no way of knowing who will be affected like this or when - especially when nobody's really sure what they're getting.
It is also important to highlight, that if you get caught with drugs, you risk getting a criminal record, a fine or going to prison.
So given the trouble drugs can cause - for relationships, your health, with the law, work, study and money - it pays to know the facts. In that that way, you can make your own mind up and help others around you make better choices.
Information provided isn’t to prevent anyone from seeking medical treatment under the advice and care of their doctor. A variety of substances offer potential medicinal value, but that doesn’t negate their risks, especially when abused!
Most Commonly used Drugs in Gibraltar
Cannabis
(also known as marijuana, weed, dope or grass) is one of the most widely used illegal drug in Gibraltar
How cannabis makes you feel
The effects of cannabis vary from person to person:
- some people may feel chilled out, relaxed and happy
- others get the giggles or become more talkative
- hunger pangs are common – this is sometimes known as "getting the munchies"
- you may become more aware of your senses – colours may look more intense and music may sound better
- it’s common to feel as though time is slowing down
Cannabis can have other effects too:
- it makes some people feel faint and/or sick – this is sometimes known as a "whitey"
- it makes some people feel faint and/or sick – this is sometimes known as a "whitey"
- some people find it affects their memory, making it harder to remember things
- it makes some people feel confused, anxious or paranoid, and some experience panic attacks and hallucinations. These effects are particularly common with stronger forms of cannabis, such as skunk and sinsemilla
If you use cannabis regularly it can make you demotivated and uninterested in other things going on in your life, such as education or work. Long-term use can affect your ability to learn and to concentrate.