Reflections on Past Acting While High: Lessons Learned

Some of the worst decisions in life are made under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Here are a few accounts from individuals who have shared their experiences in hopes of learning from them.

One of the most terrifying experiences occurred in a particularly unexpected and potentially life-threatening situation. The narrator describes an incident where they were pronounced dead for a brief moment due to indigenous brain oxygen deprivation while under the influence of drugs. Although technical death wasn't sustained, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved with drug use.

Almost Drowned in a Canoe: A Cautionary Tale

Another person recounts a near-drowning experience that occurred during a canal excursion as part of their Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award. The DofE is a series of challenges aimed at young people, focusing on developing practical skills and experiences. Despite being warned to use a rope to control the positioning of the boat, the individual, under the influence of marijuana, mistakenly released the rope, resulting in the canoe capsizing and filling with water.

The individual had a history of single-drug experiences, and they misjudged the effects of marijuana. They hallucinated and believed they were being told to jump off the boat when they should have stayed on. They managed to sober up after an hour and completed the rest of the journey.

Imprudent Actions Under the Influence

Another individual, struggling with alcohol abuse in their formative years, shares a series of regrettable incidents that stemmed from their excessive drinking. These incidents span from teenage years to early adulthood, and the individual has now been sober for seven years without regret or longing for those days.

Bar Incident

The first incident took place in a family establishment in Nigeria. While at the bar, the narrator got involved in an unwanted situation where they made advances towards a young woman in the presence of her parents, leading to their ejection from the bar. The narrator regretfully extends an apology for their actions to the woman's parents, acknowledging the inappropriate behavior.

Car Incident

In a separate incident, the narrator and a group of friends consumed a large amount of alcohol, including several bottles of beer and some spirits. In a moment of recklessness, the narrator decided to take a break in their brother-in-law's car to regain their strength for future drinking sessions. The narrator does not remember anything that happened after this.

Upon waking the following morning with a hangover, the narrator discovered the gruesome sight of vomit all over the car's dashboard and driver's seat. Horrified, the narrator washed the car amidst disgust and challenged by their brother-in-law to explain the stench. Though the brother-in-law forgave the narrator, the narrator still faces a reminder of this event every time they see the car.

Lessons Learned

These stories highlight the potential dangers and negative consequences of acting under the influence of drugs and alcohol. It's essential to recognize the risks, even in seemingly harmless or enticing situations, and avoid placing oneself in precarious positions.

For anyone struggling with substance use, seeking help from professionals and support groups is crucial to overcoming addiction and making positive changes in life.

In conclusion, these personal stories serve as warnings and a call to action to reconsider one's behavior while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. By taking responsibility for one's actions and learning from these experiences, individuals can avoid making similar mistakes and achieve a healthier, more responsible life.