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Understanding the Use of Speed

Speed, in drug terminology, refers to amphetamines, stimulants that affect the central nervous system. It's known for its rapid stimulation effects, which can boost energy, alertness, and confidence. Chemically similar to adrenaline, the body's natural stimulant, speed is often used in both medical and non-medical contexts. Medically, amphetamines are prescribed for conditions like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy where they help increase concentration and prevent sleep. However, when people refer to taking 'speed' recreationally, they're usually talking about its use outside these prescribed boundaries.

Why Do People Use Speed?

The allure of speed in non-medical settings stems from its immediate effects on the body. It can make a person feel extremely energetic, hyperalert, and less inhibited, which may seem beneficial for enduring long hours of partying, studying, or working. Users often describe feeling an overwhelming sense of well-being or euphoria shortly after taking the drug. However, these effects are short-lived and can lead to serious physical and psychological consequences.

For teenagers, understanding the appeal is integral to recognising the risks. In the fast-paced, pressure-cooked environment of modern adolescence, where academic and social pressures loom large, the promise of a drug that can keep one awake, attentive, and active is enticing. It's critical to pierce through this allure with factual information and awareness of the potential dangers.

Impact on Young People

The effects of speed, while initially seeming positive, can rapidly become detrimental. Physiologically, speed increases heart rate and blood pressure, which can exacerbate pre-existing health conditions or lead to cardiovascular problems. Psychologically, the use of speed can manifest in symptoms of anxiety, paranoia, and even psychosis. Regular use can lead to dependency, both physical and psychological. This risk is markedly significant in teenagers whose brains are still in developmental stages. The interference of speed can alter cognitive and emotional development, potentially leading to long-term psychological issues and substance use disorders.

Socially, the use of speed often affects relationships. Erratic behaviour coupled with the drug's illegal status can strain friendships and family relationships. Moreover, the pursuit of the drug can lead younger individuals into dangerous situations, including increased exposure to criminal environments.

Academically, while some students might turn to speed as a study aid under the misconception that it can enhance their performance, the reality is usually the opposite. While immediate effects might suggest improved focus, the aftermath often includes disrupted sleep patterns and a subsequent decrease in mental acuity and physical health, negatively impacting school performance in the long term.

Practical Strategies for Addressing Use of Speed

Handling the temptation or dependency on substances like speed requires both understanding and action. Here are some practical strategies:

• Education: Understanding the effects and risks associated with speed is a deterrent in itself. Educational programs and access to factual resources can help young people make informed choices.
• Communication: Open discussions with family, teachers, and peers about the pressures that might lead one to consider using speed can pave the way for support and preventative measures.
• Healthy Alternatives: Encouraging participation in sports, clubs, and other recreational activities can provide natural energy boosts and stress relief in a healthy manner.
• Professional Help: Counselling or therapy can be useful for those struggling to cope with pressure. Engaging with a mental health professional can provide strategies to manage stress, anxiety, or other underlying issues without resorting to substance use.
• Support Systems: Strong support systems comprising family, friends, and possibly support groups can offer the necessary emotional support and guidance to steer clear of drug use.

Conclusion

While the initial effects of speed may appear beneficial, the longer-term consequences are dangerous, especially for young people. The physical, psychological, and social ramifications far outweigh any perceived short-term benefits. It's important for teenagers to have a clear understanding of these risks and to develop healthy, alternative strategies for dealing with life's challenges and pressures. By fostering open, honest conversations around such topics and providing supportive environments, we can help young people make informed, safe choices without turning to substances like speed.

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.