Why it matters more while you're growing
The brain keeps developing into the mid-twenties. Alcohol, nicotine, cannabis and other drugs can affect attention, memory, mood and sleep, and the younger someone starts, the more likely they are to become dependent. In India, selling e-cigarettes is banned, and selling alcohol or tobacco to under-18s is illegal.
Warning signs
Using more than planned or needing more for the same effect; feeling unwell or irritable without it; hiding it; spending money or time on it; falling behind at school; new friends who use; changes in mood or sleep; or carrying on even after it caused problems.
If you're worried
You don't have to wait until it's serious. Talking to someone early helps. If you're worried about a friend, tell a trusted adult: that's caring for them, not betraying them. Never mix substances, and never mix them with medicines.
When to talk to someone
For confidential advice about your own or someone else's use, call the drug de-addiction helpline on 14446 or Tele-MANAS on 14416. If someone has collapsed or can't be woken, call 112.
Need help now?
Talk to a parent, a teacher or another adult you trust. You can also call, free, any time: