Substance Misuse
What is it?
Thinking that a young person may be involved in drugs or using alcohol can be a very worrying experience. They go through a lot of changes and pressures both socially and physically. This can include moving schools, changing friendship groups and being uncomfortable about the way their body is developing. Some of these changes can sometimes result in a young person acting differently or changing.
These changes may not necessarily be due to them misusing drugs and/or alcohol. However some young people who use these can change from being outgoing to withdrawn, or vice versa. Young people who are addicted to a substance often try and cover it up and lie about it.
Young People can use all sorts of substances, both legal and illegal. Illegal drugs can include:
- Cannabis
- Amphetamine
- Ecstasy
- Cocaine
- Heroin
Legal substances can also be harmful and addictive, these include:
- Cigarettes
- Alcohol
- Glue
- Petrol
- Aerosols
- Prescribed medicines such as tranquilisers
Some young people may experiment with drugs and alcohol, this does not always mean that they will then become addicted. Young people can experiment with drugs and alcohol for a number of reasons, including:
- Peer pressure
- Coping strategies e.g. helping them to feel calmer, happier and more confident
- Initial experimentation
Experimenting more often with drugs or alcohol may result in a young person beginning to get addicted and they may then need help from specialist services. This can be quite a difficult situation for them to be in.
What to do?
If you suspect a young person is misusing drugs and alcohol:
- Give time to talk, listen and be there
- Recommend they seek advice from the school health advisor, GP or other health professional