The Perils of Dating for Women

Steve Kovacs
Recently on my Internet Radio Show, The Kovacs Perspective, we did a Valentines Day special about the perils that can go hand in hand with dating such as date rape and date rape drugs.

When it comes to dating, statistically, Valentines Day is no more dangerous than any other day. However, it is a day so closely associated with romance that it seemed to be a good time to remind women to use caution and sound judgment in the dating world. So, even though Valentines Day is over this year, it is always good to remember some basics.

Here are some helpful reminders for women:

The most common date-rape drug is not what most people might think. It is alcohol and experienced rape counselors know that it´s the most often used tool predators attempt to utilize when they are trying to overcome a woman´s self-will. Be cautious when drinking alcohol with someone you are not completely sure of.

The other most common date rape drugs used against women are:

1. Rohypnol, which is a pill that looks similar to an aspirin and is usually simply tossed into an unsuspecting woman´s drink.

2. Gamma Hydroxy Butyrate (GHB), a clear liquid that is odorless, colorless and is poured into beverages.

3. Ketamine is another liquid, which is commonly used in veterinary medicine as an anesthetic, and it too, is poured into drinks.

All of these drugs are used to break down a woman´s will, mental and physical self-control and normal thought processes.

In addition to the drugs mentioned there are many other substances predators can put into drinks. Using their imagination, possibly utilizing medications or drugs they may have on hand, these criminals can come up with terrible concoctions to take advantage of women.

So what should a woman do?

I suggest women always be somewhat cautious in public areas regarding their beverages. My advice is a little more rigid than most experts recommend but I suggest if you lose sight of your drink get a new one unless you are with family, trusted friends or your drink is actually being watched while you leave it alone.

As far as the ever-real danger of date rape, do not forget these common sense tips:

Get to know as much as you can about a prospective date.

Meet in a public place.

Tell family or friends who you´ll be out with, where you will be going and when you will be coming home.

Believe in yourself and don´t settle for being with people you feel are dangerous, scary and simply too wild or out of control. Believe that you don´t have to settle for "less" and that you can find nice reasonable dating partners.

When you are dating, every date is a potential happy Valentines Day possibility. Believe in this because it is true, however, while on that journey to discover happiness remember to simply use reasonable caution.