Drug Abuse – Meaning And Types Basic 2 Security Education Lesson Note

Learning Objectives: By the end of this lesson, pupils should be able to:

• explain the meaning of drug abuse
• mention types of drug abuse
• list examples of drugs that can be abused

Lesson Content:

What are Drugs? Drugs are substances (things we take into our body) that can change how our body works or how we feel. Some drugs are good (medicines), while others are bad and dangerous.

What is Drug Abuse? Drug abuse means using drugs in the wrong way that can hurt our body and mind. It is when people take:

• Drugs they are not supposed to take
• Too much of any drug
• Drugs for the wrong reasons
• Drugs that are not prescribed by a doctor

Types of Drug Abuse:

1. Illegal Drug Abuse:

• Using drugs that are against the law
• These drugs are completely forbidden
• Examples: Cocaine, heroin, marijuana (Indian hemp)
• Taking these can get you arrested

2. Prescription Drug Abuse:

• Using medicine wrongly
• Taking someone else’s medicine
• Taking more medicine than the doctor said
• Using medicine for the wrong reason

3. Over-the-Counter Drug Abuse:

• Using medicines bought from shops wrongly
• Taking too much cough syrup or pain medicine
• Using medicines not meant for children
• Taking medicines without asking adults

4. Substance Abuse:

• Using things not meant to be drugs
• Sniffing glue, petrol, or paint
• Drinking alcohol (children should never drink alcohol)
• Smoking cigarettes

Examples of Drugs That Can Be Abused:

Illegal Drugs:

• Cocaine (white powder that damages the brain)
• Heroin (very dangerous injection drug)
• Marijuana/Indian Hemp (dried leaves that are smoked)
• Codeine (when used without doctor’s prescription)

Legal Drugs That Can Be Abused:

• Alcohol (beer, wine – children must never drink)
• Cigarettes (smoking is very bad for lungs)
• Cough syrup (when taken too much)
• Pain medicines (when used wrongly)

Household Substances Abused:

• Glue (some people sniff it to get high)
• Petrol (very dangerous to smell)
• Paint thinner (can damage the brain)
• Aerosol sprays (dangerous to breathe)

Why Drug Abuse is Dangerous:

• It can damage your brain permanently
• It can make you very sick or die
• It makes people do crazy and dangerous things
• It can make you addicted (unable to stop)
• It ruins your life and makes your family sad
• It is against the law and can get you in trouble

Signs of Drug Abuse:

• Strange behavior and mood changes
• Red or glassy eyes
• Poor performance in school
• Hanging around with bad friends
• Stealing money to buy drugs
• Not taking care of personal hygiene

How to Avoid Drug Abuse:

• Never take any drug without asking your parents or doctor
• Stay away from people who use drugs
• Learn about the dangers of drugs
• Talk to your parents if someone offers you drugs
• Focus on your education and good activities
• Choose good friends who don’t use drugs

What to Do If Someone Offers You Drugs:

1. Say “NO” loudly and firmly
2. Walk away immediately
3. Tell your parents or teachers
4. Don’t keep it a secret
5. Avoid that person in the future

Multiple Choice Exercise:

1. Drug abuse means: a) Taking medicine when you are sick b) Using drugs in the wrong way that hurts you c) Drinking water when thirsty d) Eating healthy food 
2. Which of these is an illegal drug? a) Paracetamol prescribed by doctor b) Water c) Cocaine d) Fruits 
3. Children should never: a) Drink water b) Eat food c) Drink alcohol or smoke cigarettes d) Play with friends 
4. If someone offers you drugs, you should: a) Take them quickly b) Say “NO” and tell your parents c) Keep it secret d) Try just a little bit 

Answers: 1(b), 2(c), 3(c), 4(b)