Everyone has different reasons for trying drugs. They may have heard that it makes them feel good. Others do it because their friends are doing it, or because they are curious about what it'll feel like.

Sometimes, people use drugs or drink because they're unhappy or stressed out and they think drugs and alcohol will make them feel better. There are a few problems with this thinking.

First of all, depending on the drug they choose, they can actually end up feeling worse.

Second, people who use drugs to feel better will often combine drugs, which is about the worst thing they can do. It's harmful enough to take any of the drugs listed in this section; combining these drugs kills people again and again.

It's totally normal to want to try new things. At the same time, there are SO many risks involved with trying drugs, even once. There are so many ways that drugs harm the body, and you don't hear a lot about how addictive drugs are--including alcohol and nicotine.

If you haven't yet started drinking or taking drugs, your best bet is not to start.

If you have started already, or if you know someone who has, it's never too late to stop. Some teens find it helpful to talk with an adult in their life who they know well and trust. Others will seek out support from others, like Alateen.