When you're addicted to drugs, your family and friends suffer, you have problems on your job, and you put yourself at risk for many health problems, including HIV/AIDS.

Many people start using drugs when they're depressed about other problems and they want to escape. Using drugs doesn't make the problems go away. You might feel better for a little while, but once the high is gone, you feel worse than before.

If you or someone you care about is addicted to drugs, get help.

Facts About Drug Use

• Marijuana smoke has five times more carbon monoxide (a colorless, odorless gas that can kill you) and three times more tar than cigarette smoke.
• One third of reckless drivers who are pulled over are high on marijuana.
• Using crack or cocaine one time can be addictive. You can overdose on the first use - which means you can have a heart attack and die.
• Ecstasy can lead to severe dehydration (not enough water in your body), kidney problems, and depression.
• When you're high on drugs, your judgment is cloudy and you're at a higher risk of having unprotected sex.