Drugs & Alcohol

Drugs & Alcohol 

What are Drugs?

A drug is a substance which someone chooses to put in or on their body which changes the way that they think, feel or behave. 
When we use the term drug we are referring to all drugs, there are 3 main types of drugs: 
- Over the Counter Drugs - Prescription's and Drugs you can buy at shops for example Paracetamol
- Legal Drugs - Alcohol, Tobacco, Volatile Substances, Alkyl Nitrates (poppers)
- All illegal Drugs - Cannabis, Cocaine and all those controlled by the misuse of drugs act
All medicines are drugs not all drugs are medicines 

How will Drugs affect me?

Drugs can be broadly divided into three categories based on their main effects. They may act solely as stimulants, as depressants or as hallucinogens.
Stimulants make you feel alert and like you have lots of energy. However, they can put pressure on your heart and there is a risk of heart failure. They include cocaine, speed, ecstasy, and mephedrone.
Depressants can slow down your heart rate and breathing which can be fatal. They include alcohol, tranquillisers, heroin and cannabis.
Hallucinogens can make you view reality in a distorted way - you might see vivid distortions, illusions or hallucinations (seeing things that are there). They include LSD and magic mushrooms.

What are the risks?

- Exploitation 
- Getting involved in Anti-social Behaviour
- Negative impact on mental health
- Long term health concerns 
- Can affect memory whilst under the influence 
- Most drugs are not pure and are mixed with unknown substances that could be harmful
-Accidental overdose as strength of drugs is rarely stated

Being pressured?

It can be hard to say 'no' to your friends, especially if they're all joining in. If they are trying to get you to do something that you don't want to do, then this could make you feel scared and alone. Becoming more assertive is a way you can say how you really feel without being mean or pushy. 

Who Can Help Me? 

Talk to Frank:
Phone: 0300 123 6600
Text: 82111
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