Psychoactive Substances

Psychoactive substances are natural or synthetic substances that act on the central nervous system and alter mental processes such as mood, perception, cognition, consciousness, and behaviour. These substances may be legally prescribed medications (e.g., pain medications or sedatives), legally available substances such as alcohol or caffeine, or controlled or illicit drugs. Psychoactive substances can be used for medical, social, cultural, or recreational purposes, but some carry risks of misuse, dependence, and health or social harms when used in harmful ways. 

Managing Addictions in Primary Care

 - 
London and Online
, 
United Kingdom

This long-standing conference returns to 30 Euston Square to offer an opportunity for workshops, interaction, networking, and shared learning in person.

Cannabis and amphetamine use among school-going adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa: a multi-country analysis of prevalence and associated factors

Scientific article
 - 
Global evidence indicates that early onset of illicit substance use among adolescents and emerging adults is associated with negative mental-health related-outcomes that can persist into adulthood. However, the lack of quality regional data on adolescent illicit substance use and its determinants remains a common barrier to evidence-based policy-making and the development of school-based interventions in Africa. The purpose of our study was to estimate the prevalence and describe the correlates of cannabis and amphetamine use among school-going adolescents in eight sub-Saharan African countries (SSA) – Benin, Ghana, Liberia, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, and Tanzania.

Contribute to the 2024 CND Mid-term Review

News
 - 
RESPOND TO THE ONLINE CONSULTATION The global survey is part of a broader consultation process in preparation for the 2024 Mid-term review of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs. It aims to gather inputs from NGOs working on drug policy issues...

Sustainable Integrated Care Through Community Partnerships

 - 
Online
, 
- Global -
Description

With the focus of substance use disorder treatment shifting to integrated care solutions, it is crucial for addiction professionals to explore valuable community partnerships to complement services already offered.

Online Dispensaries: Minors' Ease of Access to Marijuana

Scientific article
 - 
Online Dispensaries: Minors' Ease of Access to Marijuana A recently published study in the Journal of the American Medical Association Pediatrics has shed light on the concerning ease with which minors can purchase marijuana through online...