There are many substances that young people can abuse, including
alcohol, amphetamines, marijuana and tobacco. These
substances alter a person's perception and thoughts, such that the
person may engage in risk-taking behaviour and aggression.
These substances also cause harm to the person's mind and
body. What begins as experimenting, partying or a form of
"escape" may turn into increasing reliance on the drug. In
the long-term, the person may crave for the substance, experience
physical withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking the drug, with
associated financial and legal consequences. Substance use is
often associated with underlying mental health issues and early
intervention is key.