The one time you take a drug that a friend gives you, may be your last...
If your friend shows any of these signs, seek emergency medical treatment immediately.
You can lie to your parents, you can lie to your friends, you can lie to yourself, but you can't lie or hide from Death. Death is final. –Sgt. Bill Springer, PBSO Homicide Unit
The second leading cause of death among young people is suicide. 60% of suicide deaths involve drugs. Suicide does not happen without warning. Most people give many clues and warning signs regarding their suicidal intention.
Suicide-related behavior:
Addiction is a disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking behavior regardless of the consequences.
Research conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse shows that virtually all drugs that are abused have a profound effect on the brain. Prolonged use of many drugs including cocaine, heroin, and amphetamines can change the brain in fundamental and long-lasting ways resulting in drug craving addiction.
A gang is an ongoing, organized association of three or more persons. Some are formal and others, informal, but most have a common name or common signs, colors, or symbols. Typically members or associates individually or collectively engage in or have engaged in criminal activity.
Why do young people join a gang?
The reasons for joining a gang may range from wanting to have a good time to pursuing entrepreneurial ventures that may require a considerable commitment to delinquent or criminal activity. The main motivator for the gang's existence is drugs. Their greatest financial success has come from increased involvement in narcotics trafficking.
Territorial violence often times results in death, criminal activity, prison sentence, drug abuse, and addiction. Once you join a gang, it is impossible to get out!
Stay in school. Get an education. Get involved in school activities or sports.
If you are using drugs
Tell someone that can help you.
If you know someone who is using drugs,
tell someone that can help them.
