Understanding drugs
Drugs are substances that affect how your body and brain work.
Some drugs are medicines that help when you are unwell. Others are illegal or are used recreationally.
As you get older, you may hear people talking about drugs or be offered them by other people. You may feel curious or feel pressure to try them.
Some people try drugs once and decide they are not for them. Others may find it harder to stop.
Understanding the risks can help you make informed choices about your health, wellbeing and safety.
Medical drugs
Medicines are used to help people when they are unwell or to manage long-term health conditions.
It is important to take medicines as prescribed and not share them with other people.
Taking too much medicine can be dangerous and may lead to an overdose.
If you take regular prescribed medication and want to know more about managing medication, prescriptions, medication reviews, including the STOMP programme, visit our Pharmacies and medication support page.
Recreational drugs
Recreational drugs are substances people take because of the way they affect how they think, feel or behave.
Drugs can affect everyone differently.
Some people take drugs because they:
- feel pressure from friends
- want to fit in
- are curious
- want to escape difficult feelings
- want to feel more confident
Drugs can affect:
- decision-making
- emotions
- memory
- concentration
- behaviour
- physical health
Some drugs can also increase feelings of anxiety, paranoia or low mood.
Talk to FRANK is a website where you can find out about what the dangerous drugs are, about how long the drug last in your body, how long it takes to work, and the symptoms of taking that drug. And where to go for help.
How drugs can affect young people with additional needs
For some young people with SEND, drugs can create additional challenges.
It can be harder to:
- understand risks
- make safe decisions
- manage emotions
- communicate clearly
- recognise unsafe situations
- tell someone when something is wrong
Some young people may also be more vulnerable to pressure, manipulation or exploitation. You should never feel pressured to take drugs because other people are doing so. If something does not feel right, speak to a trusted adult as soon as possible.
If you take prescribed medication, recreational drugs may interact with it and increase the risk of harmful side effects. If you are worried about drug use or how drugs might affect medication you take, speak to a healthcare professional.
Get support
If you are worried about drug use, support is available. Asking for help is a strength. You will not be judged.
Trusted national information, advice and self-help resources include:
Local services offering information, advice and support include:
ChatHealth
You can text a school nurse through the ChatHealth service if you have questions about alcohol or your health. You do not have to give your name.
Support if someone else’s drug use affects you
If a parent, carer, sibling or another important person in your life uses drugs, SDAS can help through their Hidden Harm service. Young people aged 7 to 18 years old can access this support.
Somerset Drug and Alcohol Service (SDAS)
SDAS provides free and confidential support for young people who want help with alcohol or drug use. They can offer advice, one-to-one support and help you make positive changes. For young people up to age 18, and up to age 25 for care leavers and some young people with SEND. Support is confidential and centred around the young person’s needs.
Admit Project
The Admit Project provides brief interventions for young people who attend Accident and Emergency because of an alcohol, drug or violence-related incident.