Guys in Edmonton are using drugs. Period.
When the 2014/15 Sex Now Survey asked Edmonton participants about the substances they used in the last 12 months, here’s what they had to say:
Substance |
Use |
Alcohol |
89.5% |
Marijuana |
43.8% |
Cocaine |
11.8% |
Crack |
2.2% |
Crystal |
5.5% |
Poppers |
30.0% |
Viagra |
24.8% |
Ecstasy |
12.4% |
GHB |
6.3% |
Ketamine |
3.0% |
Mephedrone |
0.6% |
Steroids |
1.7% |
Not everyone can have a healthy relationship with substance use. For some people, drugs can have a very damaging impact on their relationships and their wellbeing. Conversely, for some, substance use can actually be the result of existing health or social challenges.
If substance use is disrupting or impacting your life and health negatively, you should speak with your family doctor or a mental health/addictions professional. They can help you lessen or stop your substance use, or help you find a way to use substances in a healthier manner.
For those who are using substances, either because they feel they can or don’t feel like they can stop, it’s important to understand how these substances impact your body and overall health. Substances can lower your inhibitions and potentially place you at a higher risk of contracting various STIs, including HIV and Hepatitis C.
Also, there is some risk associated with the use of almost any substance. Some can be very mild while others can be very severe – like death. However, by understanding how the drugs you use impact your body and how they interact with other drugs you might be using, you can lessen the harm they may cause you (harm reduction).
The tables below have been compiled based on information obtained from various medical sources in addition to anecdotal evidence from substance-using communities. If you are concerned about the impact a substance might have on your body, always speak with a qualified healthcare or addictions professional first. In the meantime, the tables below might provide some information which can help you use substances in a safer way.
Note: Sometimes when you buy a substance you want, it can be spliced with other substances, some of which can be quite dangerous. If you have second thoughts about the source of a substance or what’s in it, don’t use it. One high is not worth your life. Consider testing your substances to make sure you know what you’re putting into your body. Drug testing kits can be purchased from
www.dancesafe.org.