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"Legal highs" might sound safe because, hey, legal has got to mean it's okay, right? Wrong. Often also called "new psychoactive substances" (NPS), legal highs supposedly mimic the effects of illegal drugs like ecstasy or cannabis but are structured in such a way that they're not covered under the current drug laws. Sounds like a loophole gone wild! So, what's the real deal behind these substances, and what can they do to young dudes and dudettes like you? Let's dive in.

Understanding Legal Highs

Legal highs come in various forms powders, pills, liquids, and more. They're often branded as bath salts, research chemicals, or herbal incenses. The names might seem harmless or even mundane, which is part of their deceptive charm. These substances can be bought online, in "head shops," or even some convenience stores, making them alarmingly accessible.

The effects promised might sound tempting: euphoria, heightened awareness, increased energy, or even profound peacefulness. However, the reality is much murkier. These substances have not been tested for human consumption, which means their effect can be unpredictable and, in some cases, extremely dangerous.

The Impact on Young People

As a teenager, your brain is still developing, making you more vulnerable to the adverse effects of any drug, including legal highs. Here are a few ways these substances can mess with young lives:

• Health risks: From nausea and seizures to severe psychotic episodes, the physical and mental health risks are vast. Contrary to their safe image, some of these substances are more dangerous than the drugs they aim to replace.
• Addiction and dependency: Just because they're legal doesn't mean they're not addictive. Many teens find themselves trapped in a cycle of dependency, needing more of the substance to feel normal.
• Social consequences: The use of legal highs can damage relationships, affecting family ties and friendships. It can also lead to risky behaviours, affecting one's overall social life and future opportunities.
• Educational impact: Struggling to concentrate in class? Finding it hard to remember stuff for exams? These could be side effects of legal highs, which can dramatically hinder academic performance.

Real Life Story

Let's look at Jake (not his real name) - a bright student with a love for all things tech. At 16, Jake started experimenting with legal highs as a way to boost his energy for coding late into the night. It seemed to work initially. However, over time, Jake found himself needing more to achieve the same effects. His schoolwork suffered, his moods became erratic, and his dreams of becoming a software developer seemed to crumble. It was a wake-up call when Jake suffered a severe panic attack after trying a particularly strong batch of a legal high labelled as a 'plant food.'

Thankfully, with the help of a supportive network, Jake managed to get the guidance he needed. It was tough, and withdrawal was no picnic, but by reaching out, Jake took critical steps back towards his dreams.

Dealing with Legal Highs: Strategies for Smart Choices

If you or someone you know is tempted by or struggling with the lure of legal highs, here's what you can do:

• Talk about it: Sometimes, just opening up about pressures or curiosity can take a lot of the weight off your shoulders. Speak to someone you trust.
• Get the facts: Do your own research from reliable sources understand the risks and the long-term harm these substances can do to your body and mind.
• Seek professional help: If you or a friend seems to be struggling with dependency, don't hesitate to get help from a counsellor or a health care provider. It's what they're there for!
• Engage in positive activities: Get involved in sports, learn a new skill, or join clubs. Keeping busy can keep you motivated and steer you clear of temptation.

Remember, choosing to stay clear of legal highs isn't just about avoiding trouble with the law or maintaining a good health record it's about respecting your body and your future. Every choice you make now shapes the adult you're becoming. Aim high (pun fully intended), and make smart choices that you'll thank yourself for down the line.

How are you feeling?

It is really important that when we need help, we feel able to ask for it. This could be speaking to a parent, a close friend, a teacher or someone else you trust. Sometimes it can be really hard to share our feelings with other people but if we are feeling low or don't know where to turn, sharing with others is really important. Teachers will always take you seriously and listen to your problems in confidence if you approach them for help. Likewise, parents, siblings or friends will help you if you reach out to them.

If you feel like you can't speak to anyone you know, there are people and organisations that can help support you:

• Childline - Call them on 0800 1111 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
• NSPCC - Call them on 0808 800 5000 between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday or email them on help@NSPCC.org.uk
• The Samaritans – Call them on 116 123 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
• SANE – Call 0300 304 7000 for support (4:30pm - 10:30pm every day)
• Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (9:00am - 6:00pm Monday to Friday)

*Sometimes we will use real life examples in our articles to aid understanding. When we do, names and ages will be changed.