Most people know that drugs and alcohol can be harmful, but they might try them anyway, especially if friends encourage them. They might try drugs because they want to feel good or have fun, but it's not always easy to stop once they start.

It usually begins when friends try something new together. Maybe someone wants to see what it feels like to try cocaine or marijuana, so they try it and feel a rush of energy. They've never felt like this before. They enjoy the feeling until it wears off.

If someone tries drugs with their friends, another friend might encourage them to try more. They think they won't get addicted, but sometimes it's hard to stop once they start.

Why Is It Hard to Quit?

When someone first tries drugs or alcohol, they never think they'll get addicted. Some people can control their use, but many cannot. There are many reasons why it's hard to stop using drugs or alcohol. When people use drugs, their brains get used to the effects, which can change the chemicals in their brains.

Addiction often affects the part of the brain that helps people make good decisions.