By Dr. George Leveridge
November is used to highlight issues surrounding “substance abuse” (drug abuse) in Jamaica.
A drug is any agent that affects the chemical reactions in the body. Drugs that impact the brain, i.e., have mind-altering properties, are classified as “psychoactive drugs.” They cause the user to “feel good” in two main ways; by primarily exciting brain cells (stimulants) or depressing brain functions (depressants). These drugs also negatively impact other organs in the body. Additionally, some drugs (hallucinogens) cause hallucinations. Repeated use of these substances to “feel-good” often lead to addiction, loss, and destruction. Let’s look at some examples:
TOBACCO
Tobacco can be smoked or chewed. It is found in cigarettes and grabba. It makes the user feel relaxed initially but later they may feel quite agitated. Although lung cancer is usually highlighted, it contributes to many other cancers.
ALCOHOL
Alcohol, also termed liquor, booze, and other names, is found in beers, stout, vodka, sherry, rum cream, wines, and rum. In small amounts, it is a stimulant – making its consumer relaxed and feeling more confident and uninhibited. In increased amounts, it acts as a depressant, causing altered judgment (hence its frequent implication in vehicular accidents). As a result, users may also do things that they would not do under normal circumstances – like indulge in indiscreet sexual activities.
GANJA
Ganja, also known as weed, marijuana, pot, etc., can be smoked, boiled as a tea, soaked in alcohol, or eaten. While some persons may not feel it’s effects, it affects mood, thought processes, behaviour, memory and other brain functions. For example, some have feelings of relaxation, well-being, enhanced sensations and increased perception, as well as dizziness, increased appetite, dry mouth, and nausea. It can also contribute to experiences of nervous breakdown including hallucinations, paranoia, disturbed sleep, confusion agitation, etc.
COCAINE
Cocaine/coke/crack can be inhaled, injected, or smoked. It can be mixed with other things such as marijuana, and smoked (‘seasoned’ spliff). It swiftly brings feelings of elation and wellbeing, but is always followed by a crash of insatiable crave to re-experience the high. Its use often produces anxiety, depression, suicidal thinking, and symptoms of a nervous breakdown.
CORRECT WITH LOVE
The teenage years are periods of significant development. Teens are trying to find themselves, define their personality, and sometimes face issues they do not know how to treat. For example, self-esteem issues resulting in seeking acceptance/trying to fit in; even to the end of yielding to peer pressure to do drugs.
Some practical things that can help prevent such pitfalls include encouraging them:
a. about their own uniqueness, gifts and talents, and how precious they are to us
b. to participate in co-curricular activities and other social settings/interactions such as clubs and church work where use of drugs is prohibited.
If they already experimented with drugs, don’t be judgmental. They need a compassionate confidante to talk with and encouragement to behave otherwise. When a youth is addicted to drugs, he/she will need professional help. They must always be given hope and not treated as inferior. Anyone who knows about their condition should duly cover (rather than expose) them, while giving direction to resources of help. They may also need support in filling academic gaps caused by drug use.
ADVICE FOR YOUTHS TO AVOID DRUG USE
Do’s:
• Select close friends and good confidantes who love and fear Jesus Christ, as well as provide accountability
• Read the Bible; get God’s instructions/guidance, and encouragement
• Pray continuously (talk to God all the time and listen for His response)
• Trust your ‘instinct’ – it oftentimes is the Holy Spirit if you are in tune with God.
(If you don’t have the Holy Spirit dwelling in you, seek God in prayer and ask for His Spirit.
Don’ts
• Don’t be a hypocrite/live a double life. You will be found out.
• Never try to test how strong you are in a temptation. Shun the very appearance of evil.
• Don’t be alone with the opposite sex in seclusion.
- Most importantly youths, you must understand that you are a big part of the Master’s (God) plan, despite the circumstances you face. A key element of this plan is finding your passion while embracing purity, but the use of drugs can thwart same. You can live a passionate and pure life that honours God through the power of His Holy Spirit.
A pastor, Dr. George Leveridge is also a consultant psychiatrist and clinical director of the JCF Medical Services.
Source: Passion and Purity, “Real Men, Man Talk Series 1,” a compendium of articles written by various writers and compiled by Andrew and Donnette Norman
