Arya Mirzaei / staff reporter

“There are two drawbacks to steroids, one is the potential problems with your health and the second one is it is very easy for people to dismiss everything you have put into it by saying, ‘yeah but he takes steroids.’

Dorian Yates

Anabolic steroids are man made versions of the hormone testosterone. These drugs are often used by athletes and bodybuilders to get bigger muscles and improve performance. However, using them without a doctor’s prescription can be dangerous. This blog post looks at the problems caused by anabolic steroids, based on information from Health Canada, HealthLink BC, and WebMD.

What are anabolic steroids?

Anabolic steroids help muscles grow and make people stronger by copying the effects of testosterone. Doctors might prescribe them for health issues like delayed puberty or diseases that cause muscle loss, such as cancer or AIDS. But using these steroids to look better or perform better in sports, without a prescription, is illegal and risky.

Josh Williams

Many athletes and bodybuilders use anabolic steroids because they want quick results. They hope to gain muscle fast and improve their athletic abilities. But these benefits come with serious health risks. Health Canada states that “misuse of these steroids can cause liver damage, heart problems, mental health issues, and harm to the reproductive system.”

The risks and consequences of steroid abuse

Anabolic steroids can cause many harmful effects. In the short term, they might cause acne, mood swings, tiredness, restlessness, and loss of appetite. Long-term use can lead to severe health problems like liver disease, kidney damage, and a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes. Steroid abuse can also disrupt the body’s natural hormone production, causing issues like breast development in men and infertility.

The psychological effects are also concerning. Users might experience aggression, extreme mood changes, or depression, which is often called “roid rage.” HealthLink BC notes that “these mental effects can lead to poor decision-making and risky behavior, increasing the chances of harm.”

The personal and social impact

Using anabolic steroids can have serious psychological and social effects. The pressure to maintain a muscular body can lead to addiction and unhealthy views about body image. This can harm not only the user’s health but also relationships with family and friends.

For young people, especially high school students, the temptation to use anabolic steroids can be strong. The desire to excel in sports, along with peer pressure and media images of perfect bodies, creates a risky environment. For students at Gleneagle secondary school, it is important to understand the dangers of steroid use. Teachers and parents should talk openly about the risks and encourage healthy, natural ways to get fit and perform well.

“Study shows social media a ‘significant risk’ to young people’s view of themselves and can provoke mental health distress”

The Guardian

Conclusion: Promoting awareness and prevention

The dangers of anabolic steroids are wide ranging, affecting physical health, mental well-being, and social relationships. While the promise of better performance and appearance can be tempting, the risks are far greater. It is crucial to educate young people about these risks and promote safer, healthier ways to reach their goals.

Schools and communities should focus on steroid education and prevention programs. By doing so, student can be helped to make smart choices and avoid the dangers of steroid abuse. Encouraging a culture of health and honesty will help young athletes succeed without harming their health.

The discussion about anabolic steroids needs to continue, and it is up to everyone to make sure young people understand the importance of hard work, dedication, and safe practices. By raising awareness and providing support, youth can be protected from the harmful effects of these powerful drugs.

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