Steroids

Data Sheet

Anabolic Steroids

Understanding the Risk of Steroid Use
Anabolic steroids may promise quick results and fleeting benefits, but they come with serious risks that can affect the body, mind, and spirit. While the allure of enhanced performance or appearance can be tempting, it is vital to understand the long-term consequences that accompany their use. These substances can lead to severe health complications, including heart problems, liver damage, and significant emotional and mental distress. If you are considering such a path, we encourage you to seek wisdom, pursue patience, and prioritize your well-being. There are safe, sustainable, and healthy ways to elevate your physical health and achieve your goals. Always consult with a trusted healthcare professional before making any decisions about performance-enhancing drugs. If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of anabolic steroid use, take heart—there is a better way. Reflect, reassess, and step forward in faith toward a healthier, more fulfilling approach to fitness and wellness. You are not alone, and there is always hope for healing and growth.

The desire to “bulk up” or increase lean muscle mass is one of the main reasons individuals turn to these drugs.

Prevalence of Steroid Use
While their use is not widely measured among adults, statistics from 2022 reveal that an estimated:

0 %

of 8th graders reported using performance-enhancing steroids

0 %

of 12th graders reported using performance-enhancing steroids

Why Do People Use Anabolic Steroids?

The primary motivation for using anabolic steroids is to increase muscle size and strength, which can lead to improved performance in sports or physical activities. However, this drive is often rooted in a psychological condition called muscle dysmorphia — a form of body dysmorphic disorder where individuals perceive their muscles as too small, despite being well-developed. The belief that they need to become bigger and stronger can lead to steroid use in an attempt to achieve their ideal physique.

Signs of Anabolic Steroid Use

It can be difficult to spot someone using anabolic steroids, but certain physical and behavioral changes may raise suspicion. These can include:

  • Acne, especially on the back and shoulders
  • Rapid muscle/weight gain beyond what is naturally
    achievable
  • Enlarged breasts (in men, known as gynecomastia)
  • Paranoia and increased irritability
  • Hyperactivity and aggression (often referred to as “roid rage”)
  • Facial hair growth (in women)

Effects of Anabolic Steroids

While anabolic steroids can lead to increased muscle mass and strength, their use comes with serious risks. Some of the potential permanent physical changes associated with anabolic steroid use include:

  • Stunted growth (in adolescents)
  • Deepening of the voice
  • Cardiovascular issues, such as increased blood pressure or risk of heart disease
  • Infertility
  • Liver damage


These risks highlight why the decision to use steroids should not be taken lightly, and why seeking professional guidance is important before considering any performance-enhancing drugs.

How are Anabolic Steroids Used?

Anabolic steroids can be administered in a variety of ways, depending on the individual’s preferences:

  • INJECTION (Often the most common method,
    where the drug is injected directly into the
    bloodstream or muscles.)
  • ORAL (Taken in pill or tablet form.)
  • TOPICAL (Applied as a cream or gel to the skin.)

Common Street Names for Steroids

Arnolds | Gear | Gym Candy | Juice | Pumpers | Roids | Stackers | Weight Gainers

Understanding the Risks of Steroid Abuse

Anabolic steroids carry both short-term benefits and long-term risks. If you are considering using these substances, it is essential to be aware of the potential consequences and explore safe, sustainable ways to improve your physical health and performance. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making decisions related to performance-enhancing drugs.

If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it may be time to assess the use of anabolic steroids and consider healthier alternatives for achieving fitness goals.