Misusing prescription drugs can be harmful to your health and impact participation in sports. Only take medications that are prescribed to you and follow instructions form the doctor carefully. Prescription drugs and over the counter drugs, including sleeping pills, anti-anxiety drugs, and cough and cold remedies can be harmful to your health if they are not taken as prescribed. Do not take any medications that are prescribed to someone else as the side effects may include nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite or vision loss.
Tip: Managing stress does not have to include the use of alcohol or drugs. The best way to handle stress is through healthy habits.
Exercise, healthy eating, sleeping well and maintaining close relationships are important in stress management. These key actions can help reduce stress levels and improve your quality of life. Quick fixes like drugs or alcohol may temporarily mask stress but the long-term effects are unhealthy.
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) researchers have set aside a Chat Day each year during National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week® to answer questions teens have about drugs and health. They’ve compiled teens’ 10 frequently asked questions (FAQ’s) from more than 118,000 queries they’ve received to help start a conversation about drugs and health. To view the FAQ’s click here