Drugs are substances which can cause big changes in your body when you take them. Medicines are types of drugs which can help you feel better if you’re unwell, but there are also illegal drugs that can have negative effects on your physical and mental wellbeing. Alcohol is also a substance, which you drink, that causes bodily changes.

People drink or take drugs for lots of reasons, this might be to have fun, curiosity, to fit in with friends or to help manage difficult feelings. It’s not unusual for teenagers to try alcohol or drugs, but sometimes this can cause problems, particularly if this is happening a lot.