Dear Curious Teen,
Generally speaking, the health effects
of both drugs are highly dependent on
the amount of use.
Heavy, long-term use of alcohol can
lead to and/or exacerbate liver and heart
disease, peptic ulcers, hepatitis, cancers,
and physical dependence, among other ailments.
Heavy, long-term use of cannabis may
lead to smoking-related mouth, throat,
and lung cancers; decreased sperm count
(but still within normal limits); short-term
memory loss; and chronic, decreased motivation
(amotivational syndrome for some people),
among other disorders.
Both drugs can alter relationships with
friends, relatives, while exacerbating
existing mental depression, anxiety, and
paranoia.
The list of effects and comparisons does
not stop here. You will find additional
information related to your questions
in the Drugs
section of this site.
Other help available
We have our "Live
Advice" service available
online - check the home page to see when
it's available.
Check our Interactive
Map to find your nearest help centre.
We also have a counselling service available
here at our offices just phone on (01)
836-0911.
Take care and if I can be of further
help just write.
The Drugs Awareness Team
|