Drugs (Part 1)

Compiled by HastiDanesh­­

One of the most unfortunate and sad issues of the twentieth century onwards is the ever-increasing rate of drug abuse. Moreover, the great various ranges of drugs, which come out in numerous forms, make recognition of drugs further complicated. There is no question the fact that there is absolutely no good reason for abusing drugs; even in the worst of situations. This has apparently turned into a lame excuse for those who simply prefer to escape from their life problems and issues temporarily; that is even if it means only a few hours. It seems that it would be better to find the easiest way out and just run away from our problems; instead of solving them wisely and through a proper plan.

However, each single person could be possibly exposed to drugs of different sorts now and every single day and it is actually quite easy to be entrapped by them without even realizing they are drugs at first. But if this happens, that first time mights lead us to a path we never even imagined of going through by choice in life; yet it might be a bit too late. The fact is now drugs are so harmful and strong that in certain cases, once they are used, let alone abused, they could have a lifetime impact on us and our life.

However no one can deny that the age of drug abuse has decreased amazingly during the last years to a high extent. A very young person can be seduced and tricked into using drugs very easily because usually his knowledge and experience is insufficient and those who are trying to have him caught in this trap, take advantage of his/her young age. Therefore if we know more, we can look after ourselves much better and make sure we are safe and sound from such unexpected exposures which might show up on our way any time and in any form. However, the basic principles of gaining information about drugs in general will help us gain a better perspective and look out for the threatening signals at all times.

Drugs Defined in General

To start with, we need to have a general view about drugs. Once we recognize their identity, no matter in what names and shapes they appear, we will know how to deal with them and avoid their usage. One of the simple definitions offered about drugs makes it clear that “drugs are psychoactive substances which change the manners in which an individual feels, thinks and behaves in life”. Though there are some products like tobacco and alcohol which are not called drugs, but essentially they have similar effects and can be as dangerous as any known drugs.

Keep in mind that in here we exclude all sorts of substances which are prescribed by a physician for treating an illness. Because they too are referred to as drugs, but then they are used through medical supervision and for a particular purpose, which makes a huge difference! In other words  in here we intend to discuss the manmade drugs or natural substances which are used intentionally for changing how a person feels, thinks, behaves and even sees things around him; which is most often used for the purpose of “having fun”, as they would call it.

Drugs in the Past versus Today

In old days most of the drugs were made from plants. So after the plant was cropped, it was converted into drugs such as opium and marijuana. Following that and over the years such crude products were processed to yield serious drugs including cocaine and heroin. Worst of all, it was that within the twentieth century, those who were trying to make a real business and benefit financially from drugs found out several ways for turning chemicals into drugs of different sorts. For this reason, this category of drugs is mostly known as man-made drugs which also have another name; the synthetic drugs including ecstasy, LSD and many other drugs. And it seems that this trend is still making further progress as a trade!

Since this topic demands serious discussions, we will try to focus on its diverse aspects and in detail in the following issues.

To be continued….