Illegal drugs aren't good for anyone, but they are particularly bad fo
a kid or teen whose body is still growing. Illegal drugs can damage th
brain, heart, and other important organs. Cocaine, for instance, ca
cause a heart attack — even in a kid or teen.

While using drugs, a person is also less able to do well in school
sports, and other activities. It's often harder to think clearly an
make good decisions. People can do dumb or dangerous things that coul
hurt themselves — or other people — when they use drugs.
Why Do People Use Illegal Drugs?

Sometimes kids and teens try drugs to fit in with a group of friends
Or they might be curious or just bored. A person may use illegal drug
for many reasons, but often because they help the person escape fro
reality for a while. If a person is sad or upset, a drug can
temporarily — make the person feel better or forget about problems. Bu
this escape lasts only until the drug wears off.

Drugs don't solve problems, of course. And using drugs often cause
other problems on top of the problems the person had in the firs
place. A person who uses drugs can become dependent on them, o
addicted. This means that the person's body becomes so accustomed t
having this drug that he or she can't function well without it.

Once a person is addicted, it's very hard to stop taking drugs
Stopping can cause withdrawal symptoms, such as vomiting (throwing up)
sweating, and tremors (shaking). These sick feelings continue until th
person's body gets adjusted to being drug free again

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Christopher1