Anabolic steroids are synthetic hormones chemically similar to testosterone and are associated with muscle growth. Steroids are a controlled substance in many countries, and for good reason. Despite the health benefits of steroid use, when taken as prescribed by a physician for conditions such as anemia or reduced muscle mass and weight loss brought on by illness or injury, misuse and overuse of many steroids is widespread.
Most often the media report on steroid abuse among professional athletes, but illegal consumption of anabolic steroids is not confined to sports celebrities. Young men and women obsessed with improving their body image take steroids in spite of the well known risks.
Some facts to consider before you consider steroids:
1. Steroid use carries significant negative side effects, including liver cancers, elevated cholesterol and blood sugar, heart attack, and stroke.
2. Steroids actually stunt growth in teens and adolescents by causing growing bones to fuse at an accelerated rate.
3. Steroids can cause heightened aggression and severe mood deviations.
Until a few years ago, it was generally accepted that anabolic steroids were not addictive, however, recent research contradicts that notion. Studies showed a potential for steroid addiction in hamsters. There is clear evidence of psychological compulsion for steroid use in humans. Someone with negative self-perception easily could become dependent on a substance designed to enhance body image.
A person who regularly is engaging in the illegal use of steroids runs a number of risks in addition to the physical and mental health issues mentioned previously. There is a steep penalty for even possessing steroids, which is a federal offense that carries a minimum fine of $1,000 and possible jail time.
Stopping steroid use can be risky as well and should be done with medical supervision. Steroid withdrawal symptoms include fatigue, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain and in some cases may result in severe depression leading to thoughts of suicide. This is especially dangerous in teens and adolescents, who often experience depressed moods even when their body chemistry is not altered by illegal substances.
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