AVOID HARMFUL SUBSTANCES
This is one of the most important lifestyle choices you can make.
Harmful substances can affect the brain, heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, reproductive system, and mental health. Some can also lead to dependence or addiction.
Tobacco and Smoking
Tobacco products contain nicotine, which is highly addictive. Smoking and other tobacco use can damage the lungs and cardiovascular system and increase the risk of several diseases, including cancers.
This includes:
- Cigarettes
- Cigars
- Shisha/hookah
- Other tobacco products
Secondhand smoke can also expose people nearby to harmful substances.
If you don't smoke, don't start because of peer pressure or curiosity.
If you smoke, quitting can improve your health at any age. Healthcare professionals can help you find an appropriate quitting strategy.
Vaping
Vaping is sometimes presented as harmless, but vaping products can expose users to nicotine and other potentially harmful substances.
Possible concerns include:
- Nicotine dependence
- Irritation of the respiratory system
- Effects of nicotine on the developing brain
- Exposure to chemicals in aerosol
Therefore, vaping should not be considered a harmless lifestyle habit, particularly for people who do not already use tobacco.
Alcohol
Alcohol can affect judgement, coordination, reaction time, and decision-making.
Heavy or repeated alcohol consumption can increase the risk of:
- Liver disease
- Cardiovascular problems
- Certain cancers
- Dependence
- Injuries and accidents
- Relationship and academic/work problems
- Mental health difficulties
Alcohol can also be particularly dangerous when combined with certain medicines or other substances.
Never drive or operate machinery after drinking alcohol.
Misuse of Medicines
Medicine should be used appropriately and according to professional advice or the instructions provided.
Avoid:
- Taking someone else's prescription medicine
- Sharing your medication with others
- Taking larger doses because you think they will work faster
- Using medicines for purposes they were not intended for
- Taking antibiotics unnecessarily or saving leftover antibiotics for later
Even medicines that are useful when correctly prescribed can cause serious harm when misused.
Illicit and Recreational Drugs
Illegal or recreational drugs can affect the brain and other organs. Some can cause dependence, overdose, psychosis, impaired judgement, accidents, or long-term health problems.
Avoid taking drugs simply because:
- Friends encourage you
- You want to "fit in"
- You want to experiment
- Someone tells you it will make studying easier
- You want to escape stress or emotional problems
If you are struggling with substance use, seek professional help rather than trying to manage it alone.
Never Mix Substances Carelessly
Combining alcohol, medicines, or recreational drugs can produce unpredictable and dangerous effects.
For example, some medicines can interact with alcohol and increase:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Breathing problems
- Risk of accidents
- Other serious side effects
Always ask a healthcare professional or pharmacist if you are unsure whether substances can safely be combined.
Why Do People Start Using Harmful Substances?
There are many reasons, including:
- Peer pressure
- Curiosity
- Stress
- Emotional pain
- Family or social influences
- Desire to experiment
- Trying to cope with difficult situations
Understanding these factors is important because simply saying "don't do it" may not address the underlying problem.
Healthy alternatives for dealing with stress include:
- Exercise
- Talking to someone you trust
- Prayer or meditation
- Music
- Hobbies
- Counselling
- Adequate sleep and rest
Source: World Health Organization
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