Health Risks

The use of drugs and alcohol can have both physical and psychological consequences. These substances may interfere with memory, perception, and sensation, and impair the brain’s ability to process and synthesize information. Over time, regular use can lead to tolerance—requiring more of the substance to achieve the same effect—as well as physical dependence. Psychological dependence occurs when the substance becomes central to a person's thoughts, behaviors, and decision-making.

Alcohol use can lead to a range of behavioral and cognitive changes. Even low doses may impair judgment and coordination, significantly increasing the risk of accidents such as motor vehicle crashes. Low to moderate doses may also increase the likelihood of aggressive behaviors, including physical altercations. At moderate to high levels, alcohol can severely impair higher mental functions, including learning and memory. Very high doses may result in respiratory depression and even death—especially when alcohol is combined with other central nervous system depressants such as sedatives or opioids, where even lower doses can become dangerous.

Using substances during pregnancy can lead to serious health risks for the developing fetus. For example, alcohol use during pregnancy may cause Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), which are associated with irreversible physical abnormalities and cognitive impairment. Other drugs, such as opioids or stimulants, may lead to conditions like Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) or other developmental complications. These effects can be lifelong. In addition, research has shown that children of individuals with substance use disorders are at higher risk for developing substance use problems themselves, due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), commonly used for vaping, function by heating a liquid to produce an aerosol that is inhaled into the lungs. These liquids may contain nicotine, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and other additives. The use of e-cigarettes has been linked to an outbreak of a serious lung illness known as EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping-associated lung injury), which has resulted in hospitalizations and fatalities. While research is ongoing, the risks associated with vaping are potentially severe, and long-term effects are not yet fully understood.

Repeated use of drugs or alcohol can lead to dependence. Abruptly stopping use may trigger withdrawal symptoms such as severe anxiety, tremors, hallucinations, and convulsions. In some cases, withdrawal can be life-threatening, particularly with substances like alcohol or benzodiazepines. Long-term use—especially when combined with poor nutrition—can result in lasting damage to vital organs, including the brain and liver.

A chart of the effects of various controlled substances can be found on the Charts page of this document. For more information and resources, please visit: http://smithcollege.me/DEA-Resource-Guide.