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Understanding Speed and its Risks

When people refer to 'speed' in a drug context, they're usually talking about a stimulant known as amphetamine sulphate. Not to be confused with other stimulants like methamphetamine, speed is a powerful drug that affects the central nervous system, increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. This results in users experiencing increased energy, focus, and a sense of euphoria.

Despite It's occasional use for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy under strict medical supervision (e.g., in the form of Adderall or Vyvanse), recreational use of speed carries significant risks and potential for abuse. It's important, especially for young people, to understand the substantial health risks and legal implications associated with the use of amphetamines without prescription.

The Impact of Speed on Health

Using speed can have a range of short-term and long-term effects on your health. Initially, it might feel like it boosts your energy and alertness, but there are more sinister effects that can occur with continued use.

Short-term Effects

• Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure: This can lead to increased risk of a stroke or heart attack.
• Decreased Appetite: Many users experience weight loss due to reduced appetite.
• Insomnia: The stimulant effects can disrupt sleep patterns significantly.
• Overdose: Because it is difficult to gauge purity, there is a high risk of overdose, which can be fatal.

Long-term Effects

• Dependency and Addiction: Amphetamines can be highly addictive, leading users to consume increasingly larger doses.
• Mental Health Issues: Long-term users may experience anxiety, paranoia, and even psychosis.
• Physical Health Decline: Chronic use can lead to severe dental problems (often called "meth mouth"), skin sores, and an increased risk of infectious diseases from compromised bodily functions and potential needle sharing.

Legal and Social Consequences

Beyond the health implications, possessing or using speed without a prescription is illegal and can result in significant legal consequences. These range from fines and community service to potential prison time, especially if you're found distributing the drug.

Socially, the stigma associated with drug use can affect relationships with family and friends. It can also impact academic performance and result in loss of job opportunities, creating a cascade of negative consequences that can alter the course of a young person's life.

Practical Strategies for Managing the Risks

Dealing with the temptation or pressure to use drugs like speed can be challenging, especially for teens. Here are several strategies that can help:

1. Education and Awareness

Understanding the risks and consequences associated with drug use can deter experimentation. Schools and community centres often offer resources and workshops on drug awareness.

2. Healthy Alternatives

Engaging in sports, hobbies, and other recreational activities can provide a positive outlet for stress and energy that might otherwise be directed towards drug use.

3. Strong Support Networks

Having friends and family who understand the pressures and challenges teens face and who provide support and guidance can be a crucial factor in avoiding drug use.

4. Professional Help

If there is a concern about drug use, either personally or for a friend, it's essential to seek help from professionals. This could be a trusted teacher, school counsellor, or a medical professional. Confidentiality and guidance can help navigate away from drug use and towards a healthier lifestyle.

5. Positive Role Models

Look up to individuals who have made positive choices and built successful lives. Learning about how they handle stress and setbacks can provide a roadmap for your own decisions.

Lastly, remember that it's okay to say no. Being in a situation where drugs are present can be intimidating, but standing firm on your decision not to participate is not only brave but vital for your wellbeing.

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.