“Value yourself . . . make healthy choices”

“Value yourself . . . make healthy choices” is this year’s theme for the 26 June International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. On this occasion, UNODC will launch its year-long campaign to raise awareness about the global drug problem, using radio spots, posters, fact sheets and other public information materials to support this effort.

The 2005 anti-drugs campaign sends a message of self-respect to young people around the world. It calls on youth to consider the health risks associated with drug abuse and highlights the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

Health risks. Youth hear a lot about the “highs” induced by drugs, but not enough about the “lows.” Negative effects vary depending on the type of drug consumed, the doses taken and the frequency of use. In some cases, drug abuse can cause serious depression, panic, irregular heartbeat, respiratory problems, and even sudden death. Moreover, while under the influence of drugs, users may wrongly decide to have unprotected sex or share needles, thus increasing their chances of contracting HIV/AIDS, hepatitis and other infectious diseases.

Teenagers and young adults are offered drugs by their peers, who tell them drugs will make them feel good. At this age, peer pressure to try illicit drugs can be strong and self-esteem is often low. Those who go ahead and take drugs are likely to soon realize that it is not worth the trouble, says Austrian swimmer Markus Rogan, spokesman for this year’s anti-drugs campaign. The 23-year-old athlete explains that “anyone who has self-respect knows that a short-term high is followed by a long-term low.”

Healthy lifestyles. Leading a healthy lifestyle requires making choices that are respectful of body and mind. To make these choices, youth need guidance from parents, teachers and other role models who should not only persuade them to stay away from illegal drugs, but also encourage them to engage in healthy activities. Sports are a good example.

According to Rogan, sports reduce apathy and teach self-respect. Young girls and boys who practice sports, in fact, learn skills and values that will stay with them for a lifetime: self-confidence, discipline, teamwork and fair play. Participating in sports also improves physical and psychological health.