YCAT
Our Mission
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The mission of YCAT is to promote healthy living within the Virginia Beach community via awareness, education, and action
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Youth and Community Action Team
ABC's of Substances
Substances are commonly abused and when abused have a devastating impact on our community. Below are the 3 main categories of drugs and what they fit into.
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Drugs in this category are also called "downers" because they slow the central nervous system down. These drugs are often used to treat anxiety disorders and narcolepsy. Drugs classified as depressants include: Benzodiazepines, Opiates, and alcohol.
These drugs are also know as 'uppers' as they speed up the Central Nervous System. Stimulants may be used to treat ADHD. Drugs in this category include amphetamines, methamphetamine, cocaine and more.
Hallucinogens are drugs that distort reality. There are two categories of hallucinogens: classic and dissociative drugs. Hallucinogens can impact how a person sees, hears and feels. They may see, hear or feel something that does not exist or can exaggerate what is being sensed.
Note: Not all drugs fit into just one category. Some may fit in 2 or even all 3 of them depending on how the brain and body react to them.