Unfortunately, if you are the kind of person that loves to drink, do drugs, and all the rest of it, you will find you are at higher risk for a set of tragedies.

Marijuana and alcohol are bad for brain development.

There may be legal issues.

And what is more, you may do something crazy and dumb (heck, you may have done this already) that you would never normally do, and it could lead to something horrific, from a car crash to an issue from unprotected sex, to anything.

It is not all bad.

After all, we cannot judge you - we do not know why you are doing drugs.

• Are you running from something terrible?
• Are you just trying to have fun?
• Are you trying to fit in?
• Are you trying to explore the universe within your mind?
• As you ride the crest of youth, all these motives appear natural, even strong, like you’re in a film.

But you may want to dial it back as you think about the future you, and the life they would like to lead.

Always make the most of this life!

Clear your head.

Let’s establish some clear signs that what you’re doing is really to fill the void of a deeper problem.

If this is true, you may want to ask someone for advice or help.

They, like us, actually want to hear your individual story, your motives, and get to know you.

They really care!

• Your risk-taking or impulsiveness reflects a sudden change in behavior
• You draw away from family and friends
• You don’t go to school, miss assignments, and your marks go down
• You don’t eat or sleep enough… or you do these too much!
• Your appearance and hygiene have gone down
• You talk about suicide and death (and this includes in a joking way)

Ultimately, you’re young and you may find yourself hopping behind the wheel of a dangerous race car.

Is it you?

Have you found your voice?

Finally, are you treating yourself with respect?