Drug abuse is a matter that is taken very seriously because of the hugely damaging effects it can have on the body and mind. Here we continue with more of the most commonly used substances in the UK.

Hallucinogens

As the name would suggest, hallucinogens cause hallucinations and are more commonly known as LSD and magic mushrooms.

They often have the misconception that they are fairly safe but they can in fact lead to Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia, alzheimer’s and senility. They can also increase heart rate and blood pressure which can lead to heart failure and they are also capable of causing substantial liver damage.

Marijuana

Cannabis is the most widely used substance in the UK and despite constant government and media warnings about the health risks of using it, many people still view the drug as being completely harmless.

Marijuana can in fact have a huge impact on the nervous system and cause impaired coordination, schizophrenia and depression. It can also increase the risk of suffering from a heart attach or arrhythmia, long-term use can alter thyroid and growth hormones and it can even cause suppression of gonadal hormones which affects the reproductive system.

Steroids

As there is more pressure on people to look good than ever before, steroid use continues to rise in the UK. Seen as more of a supplement than a drug, many fail to realise the consequences of what regular use can do.

Steroids can in fact affect the limbic system, learning, memory and they can cause increased aggressiveness. They affect blood lipids and enlarge ventricles, can lead to kidney damage and have also been known to cause testicular atrophy and affect women’s menstrual cycles.

If you think that you or someone you know could have a drug addiction, please feel free to visit our Drug Addiction Treatment and Rehabilitation page for more information about the signs, symptoms and treatments that are available.