Illicit Drug Speed Up Psychosis

An Australian study published in the Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry has shown that the more illicit drugs a person uses can speed up the onset of psychosis.

Cannabis use increases the risk of developing psychotic illnesses earlier but using other illicit drugs accelerates the process.

Early use of illicit drugs by young people can affect the brain’s neurochemical system because the brain is still developing until the early 20’s according to the experts.

The key message is- it’s you brain, you need it, so don’t damage it.

(Source: Melbourne Age newspaper 30 December 2012)

DRUG ADVISORY COUNCIL COMMENTS-

This latest study confirms once again that illicit drugs are illegal because they are dangerous.

Cannabis in particular is known to cause mental illnesses like psychosis and schizophrenia, Australian young people are starting to use earlier therefore risking this brain damage.

Multi drug use is very common so that the risks are multiplied.

The message of the known brain damage of illicit drug use is now more urgent so we must dissuade young people now.

Modern forms of cannabis contain more toxins so the brain damage is likely to increase in the future.

Identified illicit drug users need rehabilitation to get them free of drugs before they are addicted and progress to multi drug use.