Drug Education
Program
A comprehensive module on
understanding the causes, types, harms,
and prevention of drug addiction.
Module 4: NSTP - Civic Welfare Training Services
Key Learning Outcomes
Causes of Addiction Drug Types
Determine the underlying factors Distinguish between various classifications of drugs.
contributing to drug addiction.
Harms of Illegal Drugs Drug-Free Life
Be kept abreast of the possible harms caused by illegal Develop awareness and strategies to maintain a drug-free
drugs, including health and social impacts. life.
Understanding Drugs: Definitions and Dangers
What is a Drug? Why are Illegal Drugs Dangerous?
Illegal drugs are particularly harmful for kids and teens
In medicine: Any substance with the potential to preventor
whose bodies are still growing, potentially damaging the
cure a disease or enhance physical or mental well-being.
brain, heart, and other vital organs. For instance, cocaine
In pharmacology: Any chemical agent that alters
can cause a heart attack even in young individuals.
biochemical or physiological processes of body tissues or
Drug use impairs clear thinking and decision-making,
organisms.
In common usage: A substance used for non-medical (e.g.,
leading to poor performance in school, sports, and other
recreational) reasons. activities, and can result in dangerous actions.
Why Do People Use Illegal Drugs?
People use illegal drugs for various reasons, often to escape reality temporarily. A drug might
make someone who is sad or upset, feel better or forget problems, but this effect is short-
lived.
To Fit In Curiosity
Kids and teens may try drugs to be accepted Some are driven by curiosity about the
by a peer group. effects of drugs.
Boredom Escape Reality
Others may turn to drugs out of Drugs offer a temporary escape from
boredom. sadness, upset, or personal problems.
The Global Problem: Impact
of Substance Use Disorders
Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) have far-reaching
global consequences, affecting millions and leading
to significant health and societal issues.
Key Statistics (2014) Consequences of SUDs
12 million people injected drugs. Higher rates of hepatitis and
About 14% of those who inject tuberculosis.
drugs are HIV positive. Lost productivity.
About 52% of those who inject Injuries and deaths from
drugs are infected with Hepatitis accidents.
C Virus. Overdose deaths.
Suicides and violence.
Psychoactive Substances: Classification and Effects
Psychoactive substances affect the body's Central Nervous System, altering how
people behave or perceive their surroundings.
Drug Classification Review Psychoactive Substances Alter:
Stimulants: Increase CNS activity (e.g., cocaine, Mood: (e.g., happiness, staying awake).
amphetamine, shabu, nicotine/caffeine). Thoughts: (e.g., suicidal, flight of ideas, insomnia).
Depressants: Decrease CNS activity (e.g., alcohol, Sensory Perceptions: (e.g., distorted vision, heightened
barbiturates, benzodiazepines, GHB). senses).
Opioids (Narcotics): Decrease CNS activity (e.g., heroin, Behavior: (e.g., violence, talkativeness, aggression).
morphine, opium, Demerol).
Hallucinogens: Produce vivid sensory distortions and alter Note: Effects depend on the specific substance used.
mood and thinking (e.g., LSD, marijuana, mescaline peyote,
mushrooms, ecstasy).
Effects of Major Drug Classes
Opioids (Narcotics) Stimulants Depressants Hallucinogens
"Desirable"Effects: Physical pain "Desirable" Effects: Euphoria, "Desirable" Effects: Relaxation, "Desirable"Effects: Heightened
relief, emotional numbness, increased energy/endurance, decreased anxiety/inhibitions, sensory experience, vivid mental
euphoria, sense of well-being, talkativeness, mental alertness, sense of well-being, mild images, distorted vision, altered
calm drowsiness. feelings of happiness/power, euphoria. space/time perception, joy,
Side Effects: Nausea/vomiting, unrealistic cleverness, enhanced distorted body sense, loss of
Side Effects: Poor concentration,
confusion, slowed breathing, sexual desire, visual reality, intense emotions,
muscle weakness, lack of
constipation, blurred vision, distortions/hallucinations. dreaminess, hallucinations.
coordination, slurred speech,
dizziness, rashes, dry mouth, Side Effects: Dilated pupils, dizziness, slowed reflexes, Side Effects: Intense
weakness, memory loss. increased body impaired judgment, mental nausea/vomiting, tremors,
temperature/heart rate, confusion, emotional reduction. difficulty focusing/concentrating,
headaches, appetite suppression, chills,
sweating, dry mouth, highly
INHALANTS restlessness/insomnia,
adverse reactions ("bad trip"),
abdominal pain, paranoia,
"Desirable" Effects: Euphoria,
formication, decreased sexual dilated pupils.
giddiness, lessened inhibition and
response (at higher doses).
anxiety, hallucinations. Remember: Marijuana is also
Remember: Shabu is the most
known as cannabis. Ecstasy was
Side Effects: Headache, lack of abused drug in the country
initially popular in the nightclub
today.
coordination, slurred speech, scene.
confusion.
Progression of Drug Use
Drug use often follows a progression, from initial experimentation to
severe addiction, with increasing risks at each stage.
2. Circumstantial/Occasional Use
1. Experimental/Recreational Use
Motivated to achieve a desirable effect for specific
Occurs in social settings, infrequent, small to moderate circumstances(e.g., shy person using marijuana to be more
amounts. Driven by curiosity or peer pressure. social, depressed person seeking liveliness).
4. Compulsive/Addictive Use
3. Intensified/Regular Use
Most dangerous and severe. High doses needed daily. Drug
Frequent, almost daily use, often to find regular relief from use becomes the most important thing in a person's life,
ongoing problems like anxiety or depression. Problems continuing despite problems. This level is considered
related to use begin to emerge (e.g., hangovers affecting addiction.
work). This level is considered abuse.
Addiction: When the Body Becomes Dependent
Drugs do not solve problems; instead, they often create new ones. When someone uses
drugs regularly, their body can become dependent, leading to addiction.
What is Addiction? How Can You Help
Addiction means the person's body becomes so If you suspect someone is using drugs, the best
accustomed to having the drug that they cannot course of action is to inform a trusted adult—a
function well without it. This dependence makes parent, relative, teacher, coach, or school
it extremely difficult to stop using the substance. counselor. The individual may require professional
help to cease drug use. An adult can assist in
finding the necessary treatment. Additionally,
choosing not to try or use drugs yourself is a
powerful way to support friends and promote a
drug-free
environment.
The Comprehensive
Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002
Known as Republic ActNo. 9165, this act institutesthe
Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, repealing
the previous Dangerous Drugs Act of 1972 (R.A. No. 6425).
Legal Framework
1
Establishes the legal basis for drug prevention and control in the
Philippines.
Implementation Guide
2
Serves as a guide for implementing dangerous drug prevention and
control measures nationwide.
Right Approach
3
Guides everyone in adopting the correct approach to issues related
to drug activities.
Thank You
Your commitment to understanding and preventing drug abuse
is crucial. Together, we can build healthier, safer communities.
Let's work collaboratively to foster a future free from the harms
of dangerous drugs.