Referat Drugs - but what is a drug?, but why do people start taking drugs?

Drugs

We have been using chemicals for as long as we have been manufacturers. But some of these chemicals can be very dangerous, especially when we use them in masses. Most chemicals which are used in medicine are so dangerous that we are only allowed to use them in small amounts and only with a doctor's prescription.

BUT WHAT IS A DRUG?

- a drug is a chemical which people can take for pleasure

- and it is a chemical which has the power to change one's mood

- but a drug is also a chemical which the taker can become dependent on

Any kind of medicine, available in a chemist's shop can be called a drug. There are also other kinds of drugs which have been largerly accepted by society.

The first kind of these drugs is used by half the population in this country. This is nicotine. You can take nicotine into the body by smoking any kind of tobacco.

The second drug is used by the majority of the population especially in situations when they are depressed. This old chemical is called alcohol!

The third chemical is used by almost every person in this country, especially when they want to keep themselves awake and alert. It is caffeine, included in coffee, tee, and Coke-drinks.

The fact is that most of us take nicotine, alcohol or caffeine because they can help us to change our moods. They give us also a feeling of well-being which we appreciate and enjoy.

But there are also other drugs  which are only available on prescription because they are very dangerous when taking them in masses.

These kinds of drugs are for example heroine, morphine and opium, cannabis, marijuana, hashish,amphetamines, barbiturades and LSD. Some of them are used as narcotics and opiates.

It is true to say that all drugs obtain some enjoyable effects. These effects vary from person to person, even from time to time. But the drugs can also often be unpleasant. Some drugs can make you see things that really are not here. In this moment you'll have 'hallucinations'!

BUT WHY DO PEOPLE START TAKING DRUGS?

There are many different types of people who take drugs, so there are reasons or theories why people take drugs at all.

1. The 'pleasure' Theory

This theory suggests that people take drugs because they like the effects.

2. The 'Curiosity' Theory

This theory suggests that some people are just curious about the effects of drugs and want to know for themselves what is it like.

3. The 'Fashion' Theory

Some people believe that one takes drugs because it is popular to take it.

4. The 'Because-it-is-offered' Theory

Sometimes people do something just because they get the opportunity. They take legal or

illegal drugs because they were offered to them.

In conclusion I would like to say: 'Avoid taking drugs in any kind. Especially hard drugs are very dangerous. Make clear to anyone who takes drugs that they have a bad influence on people and that they can destroy their whole lives.Think also about drugs which are accepted by society and try also to avoid them. If it isn't possible to give them up, so try to take them fewer and fewer.'