After alcohol, the most commonly used and abused drug is cannabis (marijuana). [2] However, cannabis has a lower rate of developing addiction than both nicotine and alcohol, at about 10-20%. [3]

About 8% of Americans 12 and older had used an illicit drug in the past 30 days, including cannabis, cocaine/crack, heroin, hallucinogens, inhalants or prescription drugs not prescribed for the user, according to a survey. [5]

“Heavy drinkers” are more likely to use illegal drugs than those who don’t drink; youth who drink are 7.5 times more likely—nearly a third of heavy drinkers over age 12 were also illegal drug users. [6] In the US, 6.6% of the population over age 12 (calculated to 16 million people) reported heavy drinking—defined as “binge drinking on at least five of the past thirty days). [6]

While psychedelics aren’t legal, research surrounding the positive effects of LSD “micro-dosing” is ongoing—using really, really, really small doses of LSD to gain its positive effects. James Fadiman is one researcher in this field… who even continued researching this during a 40 year span when that research was illegal! [7] To learn more about Jim’s research and LSD microdosing in a really approachable way, check out episode 44 of the podcast Reply All, “Shine On You Crazy Goldman.”

For users, there can be positive and negative effects to drug use—including easier ability to socialize, relax, or feel energized… as well as physical, social, legal and financial consequences. [8]

Drug users may consider a medical ID bracelet. For example, being easily identify a potential overdose as opposed to other medical problems can help bystanders administer drugs like naloxone/Narcan more quickly to reverse the effects of an overdose.

Awareness jewelry can help start important conversations about drug and alcohol abuse—the red ribbon is the awareness color for substance abuse. View our red ribbon awareness jewelry.