*drugs*

[QuestionaireQueen]

As the Title suggests, Drugs... I'm gobsmacked at the information the Courier Mail is publishing this week about how frequently and common drugs are being used.

Nor, I'm not a prune so I do know people are using drugs. But I really don't know 1 in 7 people who do drugs... Unless they do it in secret. :detective:

So, all via the poll, in secret, are you up to posting whether you do drugs?

I'm not being nosey, I just can't see every 7th person doing drugs like portrayed in the newspaper!

[Milliner]

Do you mean now or ever?

[munchie]

Im sorry, It seems odd to join a parenting forum and ask who takes drugs.

Plus I highly doubt anyone is going to admit to taking any illegal substances.

[munchie]

Here is an old thread with a similar topic, if you would like a read

http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/showthread.php?t=238736

[Cordelia]

Im sorry, It seems odd to join a parenting forum and ask who takes drugs.

Plus I highly doubt anyone is going to admit to taking any illegal substances.

I've had far odder conversations at mums group where we're supposed to be talking about parenting!!! And i'm interested in this too!

DH got offered cocaine in leiu of paymnet for a job the other week - we were shocked that the guy must have thought DH would be the type!!! Which made us have a similar conversation.

bring on more bizarre polls.. they keep me entertained throughout my day as a parent heheh

[QuestionaireQueen]

Im sorry, It seems odd to join a parenting forum and ask who takes drugs.

Plus I highly doubt anyone is going to admit to taking any illegal substances.

Actually LiLLixx, many of the articles actually comment on how children are part of this spread of drug partakers, because they watch their parents use drugs and then are put into the care of their grandparents.

I didn't write this post to offend anyone - and that is why I said 'vote in secret'.

I'm sorry you feel it's not about parents enough, but actually, many parents are leaving their children in the lurch while doing drugs, so in a round about fashion, it does affect parents - and children.

[munchie]

I've had far odder conversations at mums group where we're supposed to be talking about parenting!!! And i'm interested in this too!

DH got offered cocaine in leiu of paymnet for a job the other week - we were shocked that the guy must have thought DH would be the type!!! Which made us have a similar conversation.

bring on more bizarre polls.. they keep me entertained throughout my day as a parent heheh

Lol really, someone would do that:eek:

By all means talk about whatever you like:p

It just struck me a little strange for second but anywho, do continue:)

[munchie]

Actually LiLLixx, many of the articles actually comment on how children are part of this spread of drug partakers, because they watch their parents use drugs and then are put into the care of their grandparents.

I didn't write this post to offend anyone - and that is why I said 'vote in secret'.

I'm sorry you feel it's not about parents enough, but actually, many parents are leaving their children in the lurch while doing drugs, so in a round about fashion, it does affect parents - and children.

;)Gotcha

Honestly though, I actually find the parenting topics to be more boring!

And the news article you are refering to, doesn't surprise me:no:

[QuestionaireQueen]

Do you mean now or ever?

Now, never or ever! :yes:

[BigRedV]

I don't know anyone now but I used to. I lived in London for 4 years and it's everywhere over there. I live in Sydney but I don't go out much anymore but know there would be loads of people out there high on drugs for the night.

[BigRedV]

I work in a primary school in western Sydney and the kids there know way too much about drugs. When I was teaching drug ed, many of them knew all the illegal substances and how to use them. They must get it from somewhere.

[Bubs'n'Roses]

I don't take drugs but I do know a few people that do. Only pot. I wouldn't associate with anyone who did anything harder - back in my teenage days I did and I found it to be a horrid scene.

We used to live a pretty dodgy estate and the primary school kids that walked around knew exactly where the dealers were and where people that use were. I even over heard an older child - probably was fifteen - telling his friends he knew where to get everything and then listed off the drugs he could get.

[SPC]

When I was a lesbian , [loooong story], my GF worked in the City of London earning silly money and pretty much everybody she worked with took drugs all weekend, every weekend. There is nothing more boring than being in a bar with a whole load of thirty something wideboys on coke. They think they are so funny, and they are so not. I used to spend the whole time regaling them with stats on cocaine use and heart attacks in men.

But my favorite stat ever is that skiing is 4 times more likely to kill you than taking illegal drugs. :yes:

[safarifun]

But my favorite stat ever is that skiing is 4 times more likely to kill you than taking illegal drugs. :yes:

:( Okaaaaay... Fair enough stat. Kinda can't see the funny side through the horror that children go through when they see their Parents do drugs! Or the consequences they suffer as a result of it.

So out of curiosity, do you give that stat as a :thumbsup: reason to why it's okay to do drugs???

I'm not trying to degrade or criticise you, please don't think I am, I just am wondering. Your world, your choices, I can't judge you. :p

I personally have known a couple of people that have done pot, but not any of the harder hitting stuff. Maybe some do it and just don't give that side of them away? :confused:

I don't do drugs, unless it's headache painkillers! :D

[Freya]

I experimented before having kids... Would never touch the stuff again.

[studyingECS]

Unfortunetly I know many people who have taken drugs and currently take them. I am talking in the 16-18 year old age bracket. Not my close friends, but friends and friends of friends etc. I find it quite sad and choose to be around them as little as possible, even though they are nice people, the fact I know they do drugs makes me judge them.

[MimiGrace]

I voted that i have never taken drugs..

buts a lie...i had two drags of pot at a party :eek::eek::eek::dizzy: (oh the shame.:()

[TripleTime]

I was offered back in my party/night club day's, 2yrs ago. Never took anyone up on the offer. My SIL is an ex speed addict who has 3 kids, hit them pretty hard & my BIL is a heroin addict currently surving time for an unreated charge but in the last 13 yrs has spent more time behind bars than on the outside due to his drug use. Ive never met the man.

I've seen first had what it does to a family & its my own family!

[confusd]

i have experimented when i was younger. since having DD though i dont do anything.
i was offered some of a joint at a party but even though i know it couldnt kill me etc, the guilt of knowing i done something illegal when i have DD just overwhelms me

i even hate taking paracetamol and antibiotics when i need them.

[MsMummy]

Most people I know (or have ever known) are generally law abiding type people, but they've all had something to do with drugs, but just socially.

I think most people do it socially at some stage, say between 16 and 25.

Maybe I've just seen the happy middle-class side of drugs, so I don't think "soft drugs" are worse than other social drugs, like alcohol.

they're not really my cup of tea, and I've gone of alcohol as well since I had a baby.

I'm pretty conservative with personal use though - I've only had pot a few times, and ecstacy once. I remember in my late teens/early 20s my friends thought I was a bit straight because I wasn't really interested in drugs and they would go into another room and take whatever before we went out as not to make me uncomfortable.

I wouldn't touch drugs with young children, although once they were older I can't see anything wrong with having a bit of social pot (obviously not in front of them - say if you went to a party and they were being cared for by somebody else).

[misskittyfantastico]

:yelclap::smiliedance: For 5 years!! No attacking from me, only HUGE admiration.

[MissMetal]

Well done, I am really proud of you :hugs:
My step sister was a herroin addict (yes neddles :() and she went through hell, ODing etc... I dont know her all that well, but I saw how much pain she put my step mum through :(... she has been clean for about 2 maybe 3 years & is now 6 months pregnant & a totally different girl!!!

good on you for being so strong & honest & getting through it all for your baby & yourself:yelclap:

[~BEXTER~]

Thanks girls it means a lot. :)

[Lilyloo]

I have, and still do, from time to time, use some (will not mention which) drugs you have mentioned in your poll.

I am a qualified Early Childhood teacher, as well as an Early Literacy Specialist. I have a 20 month old daughter.

What I do occasionally on weekends, does not in any way at all involve my daughter. Nor would I say my daughter is "part of this spread of drug partakers, who watch their parents use drugs and then are put into the care of their grandparents."

Not sure if that makes it 'ok' in your view... But in reponse to your OP, there is no way in hell my DD would ever see or be involved in it...

I think there are loads of people who take drugs recreationally, whether it be pot or worse, on weekends etc.. who have children. But I highly doubt their children 'watch' or are 'involved' in any of it.... (Well I hope not anyway!)

[Chunkydunks]

Congratulations on getting clean Keiara's Mum.

Someone very close to me got mixed up with heroin the end of 2007/start of 2008 and it really made me question them as a person. This person had been clean for 10 years before hand so it was a major step backwards. I can now say though that that person has been clean for over a year now.

[MimiGrace]

:yelclap::smiliedance: For 5 years!! No attacking from me, only HUGE admiration.
:iagree: absolutely no judgement from me either!
5 years is amazing. i can't even imagine having to beat an addiction, so yeah, well done!!! :thumbsup:

[MissMetal]

oh and i forgot to add my bit :laughing:
I do admit I smoked pot in high school, even though I hated it, I wanted to be one of the "cool" kids...
My older brother is a full time weed smoker (has been for about 10 years) and I just see how depressed he is :(
Also when I started going clubbing at around 18 I did have speed once & pills on a few occasions...
A guy I went to High School with was selling drugs, got into the wrong crowd... My School mate ended up being murdered from owing the wrong person money :(
No way I would ever do anything now :no:
except I had 1 cigarette a few weeks ago as some of you know... but thats legal :laughing:

[rainbow road]

Never have, never will. :no: I value my body too much.

I admire anyone with the willpower to clean themselves up - well done Kieara's mum! :yelclap:


My aunt nearly died from an ecstasy tablet when she was 16 (I was 3) and I cannot imagine my life without her.

My mum used drugs until she found out she was pregnant with me and I cannot thank her enough for quitting. She now works in an agency which does random drug spot checks on large companies.

My cousin has drug induced psychosis from prolonged THC (marijuana) addiction.

My best friend overdosed on aspirin a year ago and burnt a hole in her stomach and nearly died.

MY friends' sister used LSD a little while ago and ended up in the gutter of a street with no clothes on (she was raped).

It seems to be all around me and I have chosen not to have a part of it.

I just wouldn't do it to myself or my family.

[mumof2brats]

when i was younger aged 16(stupid with no brains)
i got mixed up with the wrong people,and started smoking pot.:no:
then i fell pregnant with my ds1 and stopped cold turkey just for the health of bubs.
then after ds was born, it overtook me and i started smoking it again :no: bad choice i know,but then i fell pregnant 2 yrs later with ds2 and i gave it up as soon as i found out i was pregnant,and promised myself, ds1 and, bub to be that i would never touch it again

to this day i have not touched it since:D,i am so proud of myself and so much healthier too.

i think we have all done something stupid when we were younger.

[nsmonkey]

Well I have never ever done any drugs, but prescribed drugs. I have been around it though. Pot smells disgusting. YUCK!!!
I do know people that have done it mostly pot though.

[MissMetal]

I have, and still do, from time to time, use some (will not mention which) drugs you have mentioned in your poll.

I am a qualified Early Childhood teacher, as well as an Early Literacy Specialist. I have a 20 month old daughter.

What I do occasionally on weekends, does not in any way at all involve my daughter. Nor would I say my daughter is "part of this spread of drug partakers, who watch their parents use drugs and then are put into the care of their grandparents."

Not sure if that makes it 'ok' in your view... But in reponse to your OP, there is no way in hell my DD would ever see or be involved in it...

I think there are loads of people who take drugs recreationally, whether it be pot or worse, on weekends etc.. who have children. But I highly doubt their children 'watch' or are 'involved' in any of it.... (Well I hope not anyway!)

I totally agree with you... there are sooooo many parents out there that take recreational drugs when they go out, its not funny....
I know of alot of people (no one close, but assosiates) that do it....
It is happening ALOT more than we may like to believe unfortunately.... and yes, from people you wouldnt even think... sad but true....

[Lilyloo]

I totally agree with you... there are sooooo many parents out there that take recreational drugs when they go out, its not funny....
I know of alot of people (no one close, but assosiates) that do it....
It is happening ALOT more than we may like to believe unfortunately.... and yes, from people you wouldnt even think... sad but true....

Look, IMO, as long as the child/children are in no way exposed to or involved in, or neglected as a result of their parents using the drugs, then what their parents do recreationally, on weekends, (and very occasionally in my case) should not affect the child at all...

[FiveInTheBed]

:yelclap: Kiearasmummy!


...Seven Years Clean(will be 8 come Oct this year) here:D
(my story in the 'battling addiction' section)
- all pre child days, mostly adolescent and early twenties.

I know quite a number of people that still 'socially dabble'. ...I have distanced myself from them.


I so don't want my kids to go down that path - even 'just for fun'...I plan to encourage them to explore their intrests and support them.

[jag5000]

I admit I did quite a lot pre kids... but it seemed ok 'cos it was in that 'socially accepted' way IYKWIM? Meaning I still worked full time, never did anything bad to buy, only on social occasions/weekends, never was violent, knew exactly where it was coming from etc etc... BUT I look back and think, my god.. just ONE bad batch and I may not be here now.

I also admit to doing a few things after DD was born. I don't feel that on those few occasions she was at ALL affected. So I agree with you lilyloo

haven't used anything for years now, and doubt I ever will again (don't even like drinking to excess too much these days)

[reAllytee]

Never done a damned thing ....

I know its stupid but sometimes I wonder what I have missed out on :o

But I dont dare because I have an addictive persona so I know its something I can even try without it probably becoming a problem ... Same with gambling although it doesnt interest me at all !

I was going to try a few things when I had my nervous breakdown but my bestie ( who has done quite a lot of things ! ) was furious that I would even ponder LOL ! As far as she was concerned I hadnt tried anything for 23 odd years then ( its now almost 31yrs ! ) & I wasnt going to start ! Guess thats what good friends are about :D

I never wanted to try anything most of the time my friends were & a lot of them did various things & not one EVER pushed me, tempted me or anything ... I was asked a few times but just in the doing the niceties thing LOL ! Again I guess I just had great friends growing up !

[Looshkin]

I've done a fair amount.

I'm in a very different place now though.
A lot of friends aren't though.
That's making things hard right now.. I don't want to loose friends, and to be honest a lot of them aren't bad people or heavy drug users, but will smoke pot or whatever occasionally, I don't see a problem with that - they are adults none of them have kids and can make their own decisions.. but I don't know where I fit now.

Anyway, interesting to note, I busted my own ex hippy mum with her old hippie friends on 'special' brownies and smoking when I was 19 or 20, very funny. I never ever knew so obviously she had occasionally eaten cookies with friends when she had us babysat or something, I don't know, she didn't know how much I was doing at the time and it was interesting to have a good talk about it.

I will note, however that in some jobs I've worked it's totally socially acceptable to have drinks and someone pull out some coke for a few lines - the 2000 dollar suit, lucrative job, expensive house etc etc seems to make it all ok or something, all of a sudden you realise even some of the most straight edge or 'normal' people you would ever have thought are having lines in a toilet.. The corporate world is confusing to me.
Anyway I find it interesting that no one would ever suspect those people as drug users, but would suspect some of my other straight edge activist vegan friends of being druggos cuz they live in a squat and go dumpster diving, but they're actually a lot more conservative than the suits spending 2k a night on coke.

[spoon]

When I was in m my early 20's I occasionally took drugs on the weekends when I was into the nightclub scene. It is a very long time ago now and I am well past it. I am not into clubbing and have stopped hanging out with the friends who still party that hard.

I took ecstacy often, speed occasionally, and pot . I would not do it again.

[jaq]

I grew up in a major marijuana growing area, and it was easier to get hold of than cigarettes were. To the point where our school was raided in Year 11 because someone was growing marijuana in the school ag plot! :rolleyes:

I had the odd toke here or there. Tbh, I was over the need to experiment well before I turned 18 - drugs just didn't appeal. I like having my wits about me - felt too defenseless when I got high. Nothing bad ever happened - but it sure could have.

Like SPC and Zeltronica, I hung out with a media/corporate crowd for a long time, especially in London in the boom years. Rivers of cocaine, in particular. Never bothered - and you could always tell who did. Lawyers, in particular, LOVED that edge.

Personally - and this is harsh but it IS something I believe - drugs make weak people weaker. I'm honestly baffled people bother.

Anyone who has spent much time around habitual drug users knows that the argument about keeping children separate etc is only valid at first, and while they aren't high, and while they still give a damn. Drugs - particularly marijuana - are popular BECAUSE they take people to a place where they don't give a damn .... smell the contradiction, people.

[Ana Gram]

I have done every thing on that list and more.

[delirium]

I smoked pot a bit as a teen and in my early 20's. I've also used speed a couple of times, but that was almost a decade ago and long before kids.


Anyone who has spent much time around habitual drug users knows that the argument about keeping children separate etc is only valid at first, and while they aren't high, and while they still give a damn. Drugs - particularly marijuana - are popular BECAUSE they take people to a place where they don't give a damn .... smell the contradiction, people.

But the same could be said for alcohol and some prescription drugs like valium? I agree that it's a waste of time, but I think alcohol is just as dangerous as many of the illicit drugs.

[BigRedV]

But the same could be said for alcohol and some prescription drugs like valium? I agree that it's a waste of time, but I think alcohol is just as dangerous as many of the illicit drugs.

:iagree:

Sometimes alcohol is worse...just because it's legal doesn't mean it's better or ok.

[Luna Lovegood]

Do you know what is really sad? Drugs lost me all my friends, because I decided I didn't want to party anymore, my friend thought I was boring.
Guess they were not really my friends but of the people I grew up with I feel separated from them now. Makes me feel quite depressed.

[jimmysmummy]

I ticked pot, ecstasy and speed.

These were all done when I was much younger and much, much stupider.

I think I had ecstasy and speed once or twice, and they didn't really do anything.

I've had pot maybe 10-15 times. The last time was in a cupcake and the person who handed it to me neglected to inform me of its contents. I spent the next 4 hours rocking back and forth, shaking uncontrollably and wanting to die. Not a nice experience.

I felt like I had to try things when I was younger, and there was lots of peer pressure that I was too weak and pathetic to say no to.

Now I would never ever touch any kind of illegal drug. My life is fine without them.

[bada]

Wow, only 1 in 7 take drugs!

Growing up and attending a single sex school in an "affluent" suburb (over 10 years ago), I would have struggled to find 1 in 7 that DID NOT take drugs!

It's a different case now being a "grown up" with most of our friends being parents as well, but I still think I would struggle to find that elusive 1 in 7 that never even used drugs in the past.

[naiwen]

I voted that i have never taken drugs..

buts a lie...i had two drags of pot at a party :eek::eek::dizzy: (oh the shame.:()

:laughing: according to my mothers slippery slope lecture that means you will be a crack wh*re before the year is out :laughing:

[jaq]

I smoked pot a bit as a teen and in my early 20's. I've also used speed a couple of times, but that was almost a decade ago and long before kids.



But the same could be said for alcohol and some prescription drugs like valium? I agree that it's a waste of time, but I think alcohol is just as dangerous as many of the illicit drugs.

Absolutely agree. The presence of alcohol from this poll is probably something that needs to be remedied. And all of my comments still apply, except for the fact that I do drink alcohol - for pleasure, and frequently. (Which some people might comment is the same way they use marijuana or harder drugs.)

For me - and I fully understand this is very different for different individuals - the difference is that alcohol is not a drug of addiction. I have no difficulty stopping at a few glasses, and no problem if I can't have a glass. (I'm mostly a wine drinker.)

I wouldn't be confident about saying the same about marijuana, heroin, coke or the designer drugs. They are engineered to MAKE you crave them, to make you need them. It would be like chaining yourself to a big, hungry beast that is going to devour you ... slowly or quickly, depending on the beast in question.

[Looshkin]

I guess I would agree to disagree with you Jaq.

I believe alcohol causes more social problems, more violence, more injuries - emergency room etc and will and would always cost more for tax payers than marijuana.

I also believe alcohol is incredibly addictive for a lot of people - alcoholism is a very serious problem.
I truely believe some of the friends I have that smoke (non hydroponic marijuana) a joint on the occasional weekend, sustain good jobs or HD grades at uni and are not any more 'addicted' than someone who drinks every weekend, or a glass of wine every night.

But I doubt many would agree with me, but that is just how I feel.

Yes I have seen pot addicts smoking an ounce a fortnight of very strong hydro in bongs.
I have also seen alcoholics passed out in a gutter drinking goon.
Take away any social stigmas and it's very comparable imo.

[BigRedV]

For me - and I fully understand this is very different for different individuals - the difference is that alcohol is not a drug of addiction. I have no difficulty stopping at a few glasses, and no problem if I can't have a glass. (I'm mostly a wine drinker.)



I disagree.

I think alcohol is very addictive for some people. I lived with my sister for 3 years. She couldn't go without a drink. I had to look after my nephews, feed them, bath them while their mother was drunk at 4pm. My sister kicked me out because I saw too much. I was terrified for my nephews. Once when I went back to visit, my nephew who was 3 at the time said to me "Laura, you used to be my mum!" Alcohol is very dangerous and wrecks so many people's lives. Eventually, my sister got done twice for DUI and in a way, it was a blessing. She realised how her life was turning out and put herself in AA! She has been in AA for 7 years now and had only one relapse very early on.

I'm not saying that people who have 1 or 2 glasses frequently are ruining their children's lives, but I do think it is a very dangerous and addictive drug for some people.

Where I work, many children see the bad side of alcohol and some of them (they are primary school) pretend to be drunk. And it's sad because that's how they will probably grow up. Some kids even come to school telling us how their mum is "grog sick" today! It is really sad.

[MissMetal]

Alcohol can be very addictive for some people ie. my mums ex alcoholic boyfriend would wake up and crack open his first beer for the day at 7am :eek:
where as some people have no problem with it ie. me :D

[Refresh]

Yes to nearly all of them. I might come back and delete this later but I used all of the above (and more) on a daily basis for a few years....before kids. I spent my 21st in rehab....so it has been 10 years.

[mumof2brats]

I guess I would agree to disagree with you Jaq.

I believe alcohol causes more social problems, more violence, more injuries - emergency room etc and will and would always cost more for tax payers than marijuana.

I also believe alcohol is incredibly addictive for a lot of people - alcoholism is a very serious problem.

:iagree:my mum gave up alcohol when i was a young.she stayed sober for 13yrs and i was so proud of her,but when i was 15 yrs old she took it back up.:banghead:
To be around my mum was hell, she would have many different personalities and i hated seeing that side of her.
she would even drink in the morning starting about 7am.
all my mums drinking pushed me away and i could not handle the abuse and so i developed an eating disorder because of her abuse and drinking.
many night's i would have to clean up after her:barf: while she layed passed out.

i hate alcoholics,i really dont see the point of people drinking so much to make themselves sick.:confused:

[~Bec~]

Never have, never will. :no:

I have one brother with diagnosed schizophrenia most likely not helped by regular dope smoking and another brother with HepC from drug use. I've seen the hurt in my mother's eyes. :( :gloomy:

But, can I just say a massive :yelclap::yelclap::yelclap: to Keiras Mum - you're awesome!

[GabberQueeN83]

lozza is that you from echild or am i dreaming?

[QuestionaireQueen]

I have, and still do, from time to time, use some (will not mention which) drugs you have mentioned in your poll.

I am a qualified Early Childhood teacher, as well as an Early Literacy Specialist. I have a 20 month old daughter.

What I do occasionally on weekends, does not in any way at all involve my daughter. Nor would I say my daughter is "part of this spread of drug partakers, who watch their parents use drugs and then are put into the care of their grandparents."

Not sure if that makes it 'ok' in your view... But in reponse to your OP, there is no way in hell my DD would ever see or be involved in it...

I think there are loads of people who take drugs recreationally, whether it be pot or worse, on weekends etc.. who have children. But I highly doubt their children 'watch' or are 'involved' in any of it.... (Well I hope not anyway!)

It's not up to me to judge you and decide whether that's "OK". I didn't post the thread to judge people, I don't like to live my life that way and get very cross at myself when I do! :o Doesn't it bother you though, that if something were to happen, and your on drugs, that you can't be there for your child? Or that if you had a bad experience and possibly die, :( you'll never see her growing up?


Never have, never will. I value my body too much.

I admire anyone with the willpower to clean themselves up - well done Kieara's mum!


My aunt nearly died from an ecstasy tablet when she was 16 (I was 3) and I cannot imagine my life without her.

My mum used drugs until she found out she was pregnant with me and I cannot thank her enough for quitting. She now works in an agency which does random drug spot checks on large companies.

My cousin has drug induced psychosis from prolonged THC (marijuana) addiction.

My best friend overdosed on aspirin a year ago and burnt a hole in her stomach and nearly died.

MY friends' sister used LSD a little while ago and ended up in the gutter of a street with no clothes on (she was raped).

It seems to be all around me and I have chosen not to have a part of it.

I just wouldn't do it to myself or my family.

Oh wow... You know lots of people! Well done to you for not going down the same path. I think that's very inspirational! :yes: Congrats to you!


I totally agree with you... there are sooooo many parents out there that take recreational drugs when they go out, its not funny....
I know of alot of people (no one close, but assosiates) that do it....
It is happening ALOT more than we may like to believe unfortunately.... and yes, from people you wouldnt even think... sad but true....

While I'm not judging anyone, every person has their own right to their own choices, but I do think it's really sad. I can't understand the reasons to really turn to drugs? Are people not finding the simple joys in life? Peer pressure seems to be a huge issue and I only hope that the younger generations to come realise they will be the only ones at the end of the day, who will treasure them completely. They must love themselves and be proud of themselves without having to do drugs to fit in.




I thank everyone who responded to this thread. Congrats to everyone who has not touched drugs or stayed off drugs.

[Milliner]

Do you know what is really sad? Drugs lost me all my friends, because I decided I didn't want to party anymore, my friend thought I was boring.
Guess they were not really my friends but of the people I grew up with I feel separated from them now. Makes me feel quite depressed.

Aw Hun, I know how you feel. :hugs: I lost all my old school friends because I started hanging out with the 'wrong crowd' spent years with a drug addiction - I thought I would never stop. I still worked full time and would never go to worked stoned.

The day I found out I was pregnant with my first, I stopped - cold turkey. Never touched anything since. But you know what, that was also the day I lost all my friends. They didn't want to be friends with the girl who wouldn't go out anymore, who wouldn't visit after work etc. :(

I'm glad that I don't hang around those people anymore, I'm glad that my children will NEVER be around them but I'm also sad because life is a little lonely now.

I have a lot of regrets and I'm really disappointed in myself -what have I done to my brain. :o

A lot more people take drugs than you think; sadly it's very common.

[Refresh]

I have a lot of regrets and I'm really disappointed in myself -what have I done to my brain.

Me too :crying: I don't think I will ever be the same. I get these moments when I can't remember what I was just talking about or where I can't get a word out....the short term memory is not great either. I KNOW I have done lots of damage :(

[Milliner]

Me too :crying: I don't think I will ever be the same. I get these moments when I can't remember what I was just talking about or where I can't get a word out....the short term memory is not great either. I KNOW I have done lots of damage :(

Same. I can’t even express myself anymore. I forget simple grammer and spelling. :no: Short term memory – what’s that?

[jaq]

I guess I would agree to disagree with you Jaq.

I believe alcohol causes more social problems, more violence, more injuries - emergency room etc and will and would always cost more for tax payers than marijuana.

I also believe alcohol is incredibly addictive for a lot of people - alcoholism is a very serious problem.
I truely believe some of the friends I have that smoke (non hydroponic marijuana) a joint on the occasional weekend, sustain good jobs or HD grades at uni and are not any more 'addicted' than someone who drinks every weekend, or a glass of wine every night.

But I doubt many would agree with me, but that is just how I feel.

Yes I have seen pot addicts smoking an ounce a fortnight of very strong hydro in bongs.
I have also seen alcoholics passed out in a gutter drinking goon.
Take away any social stigmas and it's very comparable imo.


I disagree.

I think alcohol is very addictive for some people. I lived with my sister for 3 years. She couldn't go without a drink. I had to look after my nephews, feed them, bath them while their mother was drunk at 4pm. My sister kicked me out because I saw too much. I was terrified for my nephews. Once when I went back to visit, my nephew who was 3 at the time said to me "Laura, you used to be my mum!" Alcohol is very dangerous and wrecks so many people's lives. Eventually, my sister got done twice for DUI and in a way, it was a blessing. She realised how her life was turning out and put herself in AA! She has been in AA for 7 years now and had only one relapse very early on.

I'm not saying that people who have 1 or 2 glasses frequently are ruining their children's lives, but I do think it is a very dangerous and addictive drug for some people.

Where I work, many children see the bad side of alcohol and some of them (they are primary school) pretend to be drunk. And it's sad because that's how they will probably grow up. Some kids even come to school telling us how their mum is "grog sick" today! It is really sad.


Alcohol can be very addictive for some people ie. my mums ex alcoholic boyfriend would wake up and crack open his first beer for the day at 7am :eek:
where as some people have no problem with it ie. me :D

Actually, I think you ALL read me wrong :o

My punctuation, perhaps. My point was that for ME, alcohol isn't a drug of addiction. I personally don't feel driven to drink beyond a certain amount. No idea why ... I've only been throwing-up drunk about four times in my life. And I'm nearly 40!

I know that for many, many people, it is a dreadful addiction indeed, and would never suggest otherwise. That's precisely why I felt it needed to be included in the poll.

[Ana Gram]

I was taking drugs recreationally occasionally, I didn't need to do them when I went out. When my boyfriend died, my drug use sky rocketed as it was an escape from reality and a way to dull the pain.

There are many reasons people use drugs, quite often it is to hide the pain of something.

[MissMetal]

Actually, I think you ALL read me wrong :o

My punctuation, perhaps. My point was that for ME, alcohol isn't a drug of addiction. I personally don't feel driven to drink beyond a certain amount. No idea why ... I've only been throwing-up drunk about four times in my life. And I'm nearly 40!

I know that for many, many people, it is a dreadful addiction indeed, and would never suggest otherwise. That's precisely why I felt it needed to be included in the poll.

ooohhhhh no my comment wasnt in regard to yours :no:
I was just saying this in general :o

[jaq]

ooohhhhh no my comment wasnt in regard to yours :no:
I was just saying this in general :o

No harm, no foul! Just felt the need to clarify.

[Bubmum]

I've taken it all, and done some pretty shocking things. Not in an addictive manner, but things I have done while under the influence.
People were doing lines of coke at my baby shower while I was sipping mineral water..it's just that commonplace amongst my friends. Maybe this is where the other 6 out of 7 are hiding?
I just thought of something really really funny...
When I was 3 months pregnant, I declined a drink at a party...One of the guys there turned to me quite solemnly, and gave me a supportive hug, and asked, "Is it liver failure?" Too damn funny.
For the record..my drug use and drinking stopped the night I fell preggers. I have had the occasional glass of wine in the last couple of months, but 2 glasses sees me walking into walls. I have become really boring and happy.

[delirium]

:iagree:my mum gave up alcohol when i was a young.she stayed sober for 13yrs and i was so proud of her,but when i was 15 yrs old she took it back up.:banghead:
To be around my mum was hell, she would have many different personalities and i hated seeing that side of her.
she would even drink in the morning starting about 7am.
all my mums drinking pushed me away and i could not handle the abuse and so i developed an eating disorder because of her abuse and drinking.
many night's i would have to clean up after her:barf: while she layed passed out.

i hate alcoholics,i really dont see the point of people drinking so much to make themselves sick.:confused:

:hugs:I'm the same. My step father was a drunk and so was another family member. I'm scarred to this day, seeing police bringing him home blind while he vomitted, seeing him being violent etc. TBH I have a real hang up about alcohol and how socially acceptable it is.



There are many reasons people use drugs, quite often it is to hide the pain of something.

:yes: There are lots of reasons for drug use, and numbing pain, past and present is very common.

[CrankyAndTired]

I havent had a chance to read the whole thread... i was just wondering why heroin is not on the list?

Is it because society can't imagine responsible loving parents might have done this in their past? Or is it because of the common (incorrect) assumption that if you've done heroin once, you become addicted forever..?

I was just surprised not to see it on the list.. As a former drug abuser I did every drug on your list - plus some (ketamine, heroin..) .. and am now completely non-prescription drug free and have been for many years..

I think this is a refreshing thread - so often as parents we are expected to have no "past" - whereas in reality we are human beings who have had as much life experience as anyone else!

[MissMetal]

I havent had a chance to read the whole thread... i was just wondering why heroin is not on the list?

Is it because society can't imagine responsible loving parents might have done this in their past? Or is it because of the common (incorrect) assumption that if you've done heroin once, you become addicted forever..?

I was just surprised not to see it on the list.. As a former drug abuser I did every drug on your list - plus some (ketamine, heroin..) .. and am now completely non-prescription drug free and have been for many years..

I think this is a refreshing thread - so often as parents we are expected to have no "past" - whereas in reality we are human beings who have had as much life experience as anyone else!


I thought the exact same thing, why isnt heroin on the list??? not that I have ever done it....
Good on you for being such a strong person & getting through it all.... well done :hugs::hugs:

[BigRedV]

lozza is that you from echild or am i dreaming?

No, not on echild...maybe I have a twin somewhere :)

Do you know someone with a similar story???

[MissMetal]

I've taken it all, and done some pretty shocking things. Not in an addictive manner, but things I have done while under the influence.
People were doing lines of coke at my baby shower while I was sipping mineral water..it's just that commonplace amongst my friends. Maybe this is where the other 6 out of 7 are hiding?
I just thought of something really really funny...
When I was 3 months pregnant, I declined a drink at a party...One of the guys there turned to me quite solemnly, and gave me a supportive hug, and asked, "Is it liver failure?" Too damn funny.
For the record..my drug use and drinking stopped the night I fell preggers. I have had the occasional glass of wine in the last couple of months, but 2 glasses sees me walking into walls. I have become really boring and happy.


:laughing::laughing::laughing: thats hillarious!!!! was he embarassed when you said no im pregnant?? poor dude thought he would be the nice guy & support you!!

[Silvana]

I've taken it all, and done some pretty shocking things. Not in an addictive manner, but things I have done while under the influence.
People were doing lines of coke at my baby shower while I was sipping mineral water..it's just that commonplace amongst my friends. Maybe this is where the other 6 out of 7 are hiding?
I just thought of something really really funny...
When I was 3 months pregnant, I declined a drink at a party...One of the guys there turned to me quite solemnly, and gave me a supportive hug, and asked, "Is it liver failure?" Too damn funny.
For the record..my drug use and drinking stopped the night I fell preggers. I have had the occasional glass of wine in the last couple of months, but 2 glasses sees me walking into walls. I have become really boring and happy.

Good on you :yelclap:. Just goes to show that if someone really wants to stop taking drugs and alcohol then they will.

On a personal front, I have not take any illegal drugs, simply because I am not interested.

I have read articles that if Panadol was introduced today, that organisations such as the WHO and FDA would make it a prescribed substance to the ease of overdose, and the consequences of that overdose.

[Bubmum]

Aw thanks Silvana..I am addicted to another drug, motherhood...oh and breastfeeding. I became a little bit pious, possibly because Dd'd Father has addiction issues that are stealing her chances of having a wonderful relationship with him:(
TattooMummy, I think it freaked him out, bless his cotton socks. I just thought it was a highly amusing comment.
Was heroin not mentioned? I ticked the boxes in a frenzy. I have tried everything, even Mr Burns' (the Simpsons) favourite drug of choice. That wasn't listed either, although it used to be as legal as mdma.

[QuestionaireQueen]

I havent had a chance to read the whole thread... i was just wondering why heroin is not on the list?

Is it because society can't imagine responsible loving parents might have done this in their past? Or is it because of the common (incorrect) assumption that if you've done heroin once, you become addicted forever..?

I was just surprised not to see it on the list.. As a former drug abuser I did every drug on your list - plus some (ketamine, heroin..) .. and am now completely non-prescription drug free and have been for many years..

I think this is a refreshing thread - so often as parents we are expected to have no "past" - whereas in reality we are human beings who have had as much life experience as anyone else!


:o I completely forgot about heroin until you mentioned it! How embarrasing! Sorry about that.

I tend to disagree with you with your last paragraph (only in my perspective)... I always see Parents as having a past, and many parents use their past experiences as a means to teach their children life skills and lessons. I think it's sad when parents are not seen as people who actually had lives before Parenthood! :eek: But I know it does happen!

I'm glad you are finding the thread refreshing!

[~Candy~]

Another drug not on the list that was HUGE back in my late teens/early 20's.....is LSD..the trip (acid).

Before I had kids....I smoked pot, triped, bit of speed and an eccy here and there. NO needles and definatley NOOO more since having kids (11 yrs drug clean) except prescribed meds ment for ME :)

[Refresh]

I was going to say that too, LSD :yes: That's where it all started for me :(

[EmPowering]

ive smoked pot once, didnt like it at all. some of my friends do, not many though and not much, but i choose not too.

[Hokey Pokey]

I've smoked pot before, but wouldn't touch it ever again.

[CrankyAndTired]

I find everyone's experiences very interesting. The "drug chapter" was a huge part of my life but it's so distant from the life I live now with my husband, baby and puppies that I rarely think about it now..

Almost all my drug taking involved needles - mostly with speed but other drugs too - I used weekly more or less for about 5 years. If I'm being honest, I learnt a lot about myself and about life during that time - and thinking about it does make me miss it .. But its easy to only remember the happy times and to forget that "as high as you go, is as low as you go!"

Thanks again for this thread. Makes me realize I'm not the only mum who has a history like this... Helps me reconcile who I was then, with who I am now... instead of pretending the whole chapter never happened..

Peace all! :flowerz: