No one should have to worry about what will happen to them when they go out for a night on the town. Unfortunately, for many, going out to drink with friends can present many different dangers. While drinking and driving is often discussed, more people need to understand one of the other dangers that can impact you whether you drink alcohol or not. Getting roofied is a real danger.
This blog discusses what it means to be roofied, why it’s so dangerous, and ways to protect yourself from harm when you go out on the town.
The Facts About Being Roofied
Alcoholic drinks are not the only targets when you are out having fun. The roofied meaning is when someone you may or may not know slips a drug known as Rohypnol into your drink to take advantage of you. It can go just as easily in a non-alcoholic beverage as it can in one that has alcohol. It’s also called the date rape drug because it’s often used in sexual assaults. This drug causes people to become sleepy and immobilized.
Because Rohypnol is a powerful sedative, it puts people at risk of a sudden onset of symptoms like feeling unable to move, suddenly falling asleep, and even nausea and vomiting. This happens sometimes within minutes of consuming a drink that has been drugged. The roofied meaning is when someone is experiencing those symptoms as a result of taking the drug. It’s also odorless and tasteless which can make detection almost impossible.
The Dangers of Being Roofied
The real roofied meaning can incite a lot of fear in people. Because of the ways that it lowers inhibitions, causes slurred speech, and even keeps people from moving their limbs, it creates vulnerability. The major risk is of being sexually assaulted or raped, and possibly not being able to remember it, thanks to the ways Rohypnol can impact your memory. Other dangers include overdosing which can cause permanent brain damage or even death.
These events can lead to psychological trauma as well. Even after a person gets to safety, if they have been roofied, it can cause a lot of mental distress as they consider what could have happened to them. Roofied meaning harmed or almost assaulted can have a traumatic impact. Additionally, they can be robbed or even at risk of other injuries when they are under the influence of this drug.
How to Protect Yourself
It’s important to never let your drink out of your sight. This goes for alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. It’s also best to go out in groups, with at least a few trusted people. Pay attention to your surroundings as well. Someone may try and chat you up and slip something in when you aren’t noticing. Be on alert and make sure to trust your instincts. If you feel off or something else does, it’s okay to have a friend go home early with you.
Conclusion
When someone is roofied it can leave them vulnerable to assault, robbery, and long-term psychological damage. It’s important to understand the facts and dangers and create a plan to help keep you safe. There are ways to have fun when you go out without needing to worry about being drugged and the harm that comes with it.