🔭 JSS 1🔬 Basic Science (BST)📅 First Term

Understanding Drug Abuse

Hello dear students! Today we will talk about something very important – drugs and why using them is harmful. We will learn how drugs affect our bodies, school work and families. By the end, you will know how to stay safe and help friends who may be in trouble.

💡 What are drugs?

Drugs are substances that can change how our brain and body work. Some medicines help us when a doctor gives them, but illegal drugs like cannabis, cocaine or heroin are not meant for health. Even some household items, like cough syrups, can be abused if taken in large amounts.

🧠 How drugs affect the body

When a drug enters the blood, it reaches the brain quickly. It can make a person feel happy for a short time, but it also damages nerves, reduces memory, and makes breathing difficult. The heart may beat faster, and the stomach can feel upset. Long‑term use can lead to sickness, loss of teeth, and even death.

🔍 Why drug abuse is a problem at school

A pupil who uses drugs may miss classes, score low in tests, and stop playing football or dancing with friends. Teachers notice less attention, more fights, and sometimes truancy. The school community loses its harmony, and families worry about money and safety.

📌 How to say NO and help others

If a friend offers you a drug, say firmly, "No, thank you, I don’t want that." Tell a teacher, parent or school counselor right away. Encourage friends to join clubs, sports or music groups where they feel valued. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

✏️ Worked examples

Example 1: Emeka was offered a small packet of cannabis at a market in Kano. He is not sure what to do.
Solution: Emeka should say no politely, walk away, and immediately inform a trusted adult such as his teacher or mother. By reporting, he protects himself and prevents the drug from reaching other pupils.
Example 2: Ada noticed her younger brother, Tunde, has been sleeping a lot and his school marks have dropped. She suspects he may be using a drug.
Solution: Ada should talk calmly with Tunde, ask how he feels, and suggest they visit the school counselor together. The counselor can arrange a health check and provide counselling to stop the abuse.

⭐ Remember

  • Drugs are chemicals that change how the brain works; illegal drugs are harmful.
  • Using drugs can damage health, school performance and family relationships.
  • Saying no firmly and telling a trusted adult stops the problem early.
  • Good friends, sports, music and clubs keep you busy and away from drugs.
  • Help is available at school: teachers, counsellors and health workers.

🙌 Try this

Write a short paragraph (3‑4 sentences) about how you would help a friend who is thinking about trying a drug. Include who you would talk to and what activities you would suggest.

🔑 Log in to take the exam

10 questions · pass mark 50%

✨ Lesson written by AI from the Nigerian curriculum. Please tell us if you spot a mistake.