Alcohol and Substance Misuse
Alcohol
In Uganda, you are allowed to drink alcohol if you are 18 years or older. Some people choose not to drink alcohol for personal, health, or religious reasons—and that’s okay! Others might enjoy drinking occasionally, like sharing a soda or beer while watching a football match with friends.
But when does drinking alcohol become a problem?
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Drinking too much at once can harm your body. Too much alcohol can make you sick, cause you to faint, or even make you pass out completely. This is called alcohol poisoning, and it’s very dangerous.
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Becoming addicted to alcoho means you feel like you can’t live without it. If you often crave alcohol or find it hard to stop drinking, you may have an addiction.
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Alcohol can worsen feelings of sadness or depression. If you’re feeling low, drinking alcohol might make things worse instead of better.
How to Know if You Have a Problem with Alcohol
Answer these questions honestly:
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Do you feel like you need to cut down on your drinking?
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Have friends or family annoyed you by commenting on your drinking?
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Do you feel guilty about drinking?
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Do you ever drink first thing in the morning to feel better?
If you said "yes" to two or more, you might have a serious problem with alcohol.
Substances
Substances include medicines, like prescription drugs, or illegal drugs like marijuana or cocaine. Misusing substances can hurt your body, your mind, and how you live your life.
Signs you might have a problem with substances:
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Hiding or lying about your drug use.
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Spending too much time getting or using drugs.
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Using more of a substance than you planned, even if you wanted to stop.
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Feeling like you need more and more to get the same effect.
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Losing interest in friends, family, or activities you used to enjoy.
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Arguing with loved ones because of your drug use.
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Neglecting your hygiene, health, or responsibilities.
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Feeling unwell (shaky, nervous, or sick) when you stop using.
What Can You Do if You Think You Have a Problem?
The first step is to realize you might have a problem—this takes courage. Talk to someone you trust, like a friend, teacher, or parent, and ask for help.
Here are some tips:
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Avoid triggers: Stay away from situations or people that might tempt you to drink or use drugs.
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Join a support group: In Uganda, there are groups like Sober Uganda (Alcoholics Anonymous). These groups help people like you recover without judgment.
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Get professional help: If the problem feels too big to handle alone, talk to a mental health professional.
Remember:
Mental health challenges, including alcohol and substance misuse, are treatable. Support is available in Uganda, and treatment is free in government health facilities. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out.
You’re not alone, and with the right help, you can take back control of your life. 💪