Facts and Fiction About Drugs

In the fast-paced, modern world, social media and other forces often combine to spread disinformation and rumors about life-threatening social ills. The current heroin epidemic, which is part of a larger opioid crisis has dominated headlines lately. Amid this confusing coverage, young readers need straightforward, trustworthy sources to give them hard facts and cautionary tales about how this deadly drug can ravage their lives. Lively, engaging language, evocative imagery, and careful vetting of the latest information make this book an essential resource for educators, school counselors, and students themselves, guided by understanding and compassion over fear and hearsay.

Methamphetamine abuse is a worldwide problem. This invaluable resource, written in accessible and engaging language, covers vital subjects such as how meth affects the brain and body, the consequences of meth addiction, and how to get help. True stories about people struggling with using crystal meth or trying to get sober help readers put addiction in perspective, while sidebars about topics such as the history of methamphetamine use offer important context. Contact information for drug hotlines, rehab centers, and other community service organizations are included.

For many young people, the opioid epidemic is mired in confusion: they hear about pain pills and other opioids from such a dizzying array of sources that they struggle to untangle fact from fiction. This engaging and accessible guide begins by demystify drugs and explaining the essentials about opioids and addiction. The narrative then builds on this foundation by teaching readers the dangers of opioids and how to get help if a loved one is addicted. This straightforward and illuminating guide will equip readers with the tools they need to enjoy a safer, smarter, and healthier future.

State governments are relaxing laws about marijuana use for both recreational and medicinal purposes. But just how harmless is this popular drug? This informative volume explores the effects, dangers, and possible benefits of marijuana. Despite what many believe, users can become addicted to marijuana. When young people ingest marijuana, it may negatively affect the way their brain develops. However, marijuana also helps patients with cancer, AIDS, epilepsy, and other conditions. This essential book provides students with up-to-date information about all aspects of marijuana use and suggests age-appropriate resources for those struggling with marijuana addiction.

According to the National Institutes of Health, alcohol use is the third leading preventable cause of death in the United States while Statistics Canada reports that alcohol is responsible for the deaths of 8 percent of Canadians under the age of seventy. This concise guidebook gives younger readers the facts they need to make informed decisions about how alcohol use can affect one's life. The narrative examines alcohol's history, as well as its physical effects, and its place in our culture. Also included is advice on where to turn when a loved one has an alcohol problem.

Nicotine-delivery vaping devices that were designed to help adults stop smoking are now being heavily used by teens, including many teens who have never smoked cigarettes. As a result of the widespread use of vaping devices, millions of teens have become addicted to nicotine, often without being aware of the health risks. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, teen vaping is now an epidemic. This insightful volume defines vaping, discusses how the trend began, and uncovers why teens are attracted to this activity. Readers analyze what is being done to help educate teens about the dangers of vaping.