understanding addiction & drugs

people walking through maze

People mistakenly believe that addiction can be overcome by willpower. But, drugs actually change the brain and it is a complex issue. There is treatment though! There is more extensive research on drug addiction and treatment for successful recovery.

-National Institute on Drug Abuse

Learn more about…

club drugs

Club drugs are a group of drugs, used mainly by teens and young adults.

Club Drugs (GHB, Ketamine, and Rohypnol) - Infofacts (unt.edu)

Ecstasy

Ecstasy is a psychoactive drug that alters a person’s mood and perception.

MDMA (Ecstasy/Molly) | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (nih.gov)

inhalants

Inhalants are various substances found easily at home.

Inhalants DrugFacts | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (nih.gov)

Methamphetamines

Methamphetamine is highly addictive and affects the central nervous system.

Methamphetamine DrugFacts | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (nih.gov)

cocaine/crack

Cocaine is a stimulant and is very addictive, usually used repeatedly in a short time.

Cocaine DrugFacts | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (nih.gov)

heroin

Heroin is an opioid, made from morphine, that enters the brain rapidly.

Heroin DrugFacts | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (nih.gov)

marijuana

Marijuana is one of the most common addictive drugs, it is mind-altering.

Cannabis (Marijuana) DrugFacts | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (nih.gov)

Prescriptions & Steroids

Medication taken incorrectly leads to serious issues, including steroids.

Prescription Medicines | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (nih.gov)

Commonly Used Drugs

People typically become addicted to the following list of drugs:

Commonly Used Drugs Charts | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (nih.gov)

For more information about:

  • Understanding drug abuse
    and addiction, click here

  • Treatment, click here

To find a publicly-funded treatment center in your state:

resources