Stimulants produce exaggerated feelings of energy, alertness and well-being. Unfortunately, when the drug effect wears off, a corresponding period of exhaustion and depression sets in. These effects reinforce a desire for more drugs to combat the low feelings. Side effects include slowing of reflexes and reactions, slurred speech, impaired judgment and blurred perceptions. These effects make it especially dangerous to drive.
People feel that they are performing well when in fact their abilities are impaired.
Other serious effects include dependence and addiction. Depressants produce relaxed, calm feelings. Over time, depression and anxiety increase and more and more drugs are required to suppress these feelings. Alcohol-related accidents and diseases cause more deaths than all other drugs combined. Side effects include impairment of judgment, memory and concentration and some inexperienced users experience anxiety attacks.