Say "NO" to Drugs

Understanding Psychoactive Substances and Substance Use

What Are Psychoactive Substances?

Psychoactive substances are substances that affect the way the brain and body function, influencing thoughts, emotions, perceptions, and behaviour. They may be legal or illegal and can be natural, semi-synthetic, or synthetic.

Some substances can contribute to health, social, or legal problems, and in some cases may lead to the development of a substance use disorder. Substance use disorders are health conditions that can affect people from all backgrounds and may require professional support, treatment , and recovery services.

Examples of substances commonly encountered in Bangladesh include:

• Fencidyl
• Heroin
• Yaba
• Opium
• Morphine
• Pethidine
• Cannabis
• Alcohol
• Sleeping tablets and sedatives

 

Understanding Substance Use Disorders

Substance use disorders are influenced by a combination of biological, psychological, social, environmental, and economic factors. No single factor causes a substance use disorder, and experiences vary between individuals.

Factors that may increase vulnerability include:

• Peer influence and social environments
• Curiosity and experimentation
• Limited awareness of substance-related risks
• Stress, trauma , or adverse life experiences
• Mental health challenges
• Family conflict or instability
• Exposure to substance use within the family or community
• Limited access to support services
• Genetic and biological factors
• Easy availability of substances

 

Possible Signs That Someone May Need Support

The effects of substance use vary depending on the person, the substance used, and the frequency of use. Some signs that a person may be experiencing difficulties include:

• Changes in mood or behaviour
• Increased irritability or emotional distress
• Changes in sleeping patterns
• Withdrawal from family, friends, or usual activities
• Difficulties with memory, concentration, or decision-making
• Changes in appetite or physical health
• Reduced performance at work, school, or home
• Financial difficulties related to substance use
• Continuing to use substances despite negative consequences
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when reducing or stopping use

These signs do not necessarily indicate a substance use disorder and may have many different causes. Professional assessment may be helpful when concerns arise.

 

Potential Health and Social Risks Associated with Substance Use

Different substances are associated with different risks. These may affect physical health, mental health, relationships, education, employment, and overall quality of life.

 

Cannabis

Potential risks may include:

• Difficulties with memory and concentration
• Reduced motivation or engagement in daily activities
• Anxiety or mood changes
• Impaired judgement
• Mental health complications in vulnerable individuals
• Reduced performance at work or school

 

Heroin and Other Opioids

Potential risks may include:

• Dependence and withdrawal symptoms
• Reduced appetite and weight loss
• Respiratory complications
• Liver and other health problems
• Increased risk of infectious diseases when injecting drugs
• Memory and concentration difficulties
• Increased risk of overdose and death

 

Yaba and Other Amphetamine-Type Stimulants

Potential risks may include:

• Sleep disturbances
• Anxiety, agitation, or paranoia
• Increased blood pressure and heart rate
• Changes in mood and behaviour
• Difficulties with concentration and memory
• Cardiovascular complications
• Mental health problems associated with prolonged use

 

Fencidyl

Potential risks may include:

• Impaired coordination and balance
• Drowsiness
• Difficulties with concentration
• Dependence and withdrawal symptoms
• Physical and mental health complications associated with long-term use

 

Crystal Methamphetamine (Ice)

Potential risks may include:

• Significant weight loss
• Insomnia
• Increased blood pressure and heart rate
• Dental problems
• Anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations
• Memory difficulties
• Increased risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease
• Harm during pregnancy and risks to unborn children

 

LSD and Other Hallucinogens

Potential risks may include:

• Distorted perceptions and sensory experiences
• Anxiety or panic reactions
• Impaired judgement
• Confusion and disorientation
• Flashbacks or recurring perceptual disturbances in some individuals
• Mental health complications in vulnerable individuals

 

Inhalants

Potential risks may include:

• Dizziness and impaired coordination
• Memory difficulties
• Damage to the brain and other organs
• Reduced oxygen supply to the body
• Serious injury or death in severe cases

 

Substance Use, Public Safety, and Community Well-Being

Substance use can affect individuals, families, and communities in different ways. In some circumstances, severe substance-related problems may contribute to social, financial, or legal difficulties. These challenges are often influenced by a range of factors, including poverty , social exclusion, limited access to services, and involvement in criminal markets.

Effective responses include prevention, early intervention, treatment, recovery support, family engagement, community development, public safety initiatives, and efforts to reduce illegal drug trafficking and organised crime.

 

Laws and Penalties Relating to Controlled Substances

National laws regulate the production, possession, transportation, sale, purchase, and use of controlled substances. Penalties vary according to the substance involved, the nature of the offence, and the quantity involved.

Individuals should refer to current legislation and official government guidance for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding drug-related offences and penalties.

 

Supporting Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery

Everyone can contribute to healthier, safer, and more resilient communities by:

• Maintaining open communication within families
• Supporting positive recreation, education, sports, and cultural activities
• Helping children and young people develop confidence, resilience, and life skills
• Being aware of substance-related risks
• Seeking professional help when concerns arise
• Supporting family members to access treatment, recovery, and social support services
• Avoiding substance use in front of children and young people
• Monitoring children’s well-being, activities, and social environments
• Supporting community efforts to prevent substance-related harms
• Reporting illegal drug trafficking and related criminal activities to the appropriate authorities

 

Building Healthy, Safe, and Resilient Communities

Substance use disorders are preventable, treatable, and recovery is possible. Communities play an important role in promoting health, supporting people in need, and reducing the harms associated with substance use.

By working together, families, communities, professionals, civil society organisations, and government agencies can strengthen prevention efforts, expand access to care, support recovery, and improve public safety.

Together, we can help create healthier, safer, and more resilient communities for current and future generations.

 

Public Information

If you are concerned about your own substance use or that of a family member, seek support from qualified health, social service, or treatment providers.

To report suspected drug trafficking or illegal drug sales, contact the appropriate authorities through official reporting channels.

Information provided to authorities may be treated confidentially in accordance with applicable laws and procedures.