DRUGS AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE Notes, Quizzes & Revision
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DRUGS AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE
These notes explain what drugs and substance abuse are, how they affect people (with examples common in Kenya), how to notice problems, legal and health implications, and what young people and communities can do to prevent and respond. The language and examples are aimed at learners of age age_replace.
Substance abuse means using a drug in a way that harms health, school or family life, or breaks the law. This includes use of alcohol, tobacco, medicines not used as directed, illegal drugs and inhalants.
Common substances (examples relevant in Kenya)
- Alcohol (beer, spirits) β legal at age 18 but harmful if misused.
- Tobacco and shisha (smoking products).
- Miraa (khat) β used in some regions, social and legal status varies.
- Marijuana (bhang), heroin, cocaine β illegal and dangerous.
- Inhalants (glue, petrol, aerosols) β often abused by younger people because they are cheap and available.
- Prescription medicines misused (painkillers, sedatives, cough syrups).
Why some young people start
Pressure from friends, curiosity, stress or family problems, wanting to feel grown-up, poor information, and easy access are common reasons. Some people also use substances to try to forget pain or to cope with unemployment and boredom.
Signs of possible substance use
- Changes in mood (irritability, secretive behaviour, depression).
- Poor performance at school, frequent lateness or absence.
- Changes in friends and social groups.
- Physical signs: red eyes, slurred speech, sudden weight change, smell of alcohol or chemicals.
- Loss of interest in usual activities, money or items missing at home.
Short-term and long-term effects
- Poor judgement and accidents
- Sickness, vomiting, fainting
- Violence, fights or risky sex
- Addiction and dependence
- Chronic illnesses (liver, lungs, heart, mental health)
- Loss of education, employment and social relationships
Legal & social context (Kenya)
Kenya has laws that prohibit illegal drugs and restrict sale of alcohol and tobacco to minors. Communities and national agenciesβsuch as NACADA (National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse) and county health servicesβwork on prevention, treatment and counselling. Schools are expected to have policies to keep learners safe.
Prevention β what you and your community can do
- Information: Learn and share facts β myths lead to risky choices.
- Skills: Practice saying "no", problem-solving and managing stress.
- Support: Strong family support, good school programmes and clubs (sports, music) reduce risk.
- Safe environment: Reduce access (no selling to minors) and supervise younger people.
- Positive role models: Adults who model healthy behaviour make a difference.
How to help a friend who may be using
- Talk privately and calmly β express concern without blaming.
- Listen and ask open questions: "How have you been feeling?"
- Encourage them to seek help (school counsellor, parent, health clinic).
- If there is danger (overdose, self-harm, violence), get immediate help from emergency services or take them to a hospital.
- Stay supportive β quitting can take time and professional help.
- NACADA (national authority on alcohol and drug abuse) β education, prevention and referral services.
- County health department clinics and mental health services.
- School counsellors, teachers and parent groups.
- Hospitals and rehabilitation centres for treatment and recovery support.
Myths & facts
| Myth | Fact |
| "Only very weak people get addicted." | Addiction is a health condition influenced by biology, situation and exposure β anyone can be affected. |
| "A little alcohol or a few drugs won't harm me." | Even small amounts can harm health, affect studies and put you at risk of accidents or violence. |
Activities & reflection (class or group)
- Role-play a conversation with a friend you suspect is using substances. Practice listening and offering help.
- Create a short poster with facts and local resources (NACADA, school counsellor) to put on a noticeboard.
- Write a short paragraph: "Why I choose not to use substances" β share in pairs.
If you are worried about yourself or a friend, speak to a trusted adult, a school counsellor or a health worker. Getting help early makes recovery easier.
Remember: substance abuse is a health and social issue, not a moral failure. Communities working together β students, parents, teachers and health services β can prevent harm and support recovery.