Drugs

Why people take drugs

People take drugs for all sorts of reasons. They take them because they think drugs can make them forget their problems, because their friends do, or because they think it might be fun. Some drugs can be hallucinogenic, which means they can make people hear and see strange things. Others can make people feel energetic and over-active. The effects of the drug often depend on what mood the taker is in at the time, who they are with, where they are, and the general atmosphere. Drugs effect different people in different ways and because you can never be sure what is in a drug the effects can be quite different even though you think you're taking the same thing.

Emergencies

It is important to know what to do in an emergency - when someone appears to be ill because of drugs. The same drug can affect different people in different ways. Three main effects are descibed below and what you can do - but in every case get help as soon as possible.

If someone is tense or panicky:
Calm them down by talking quietly and reassuring them that the panicky feeling will go. Take them somewhere quiet, e.g. Chill-out room or toilet Help them if they are overbreathing, or hyperventilating.

If someone faints:
Put them in the recovery position. Loosen tight clothing. Keep them warm, but not too warm. Check they're breathing, If they are not, be prepared to give them mouth to mouth. Call an ambulance.

If someone overheats or dehydrates:
Move them to a cool area - possibly outside. Splash them with cold water. If they are no better, call an ambulance.

Useful Websites and Organisations

CAN:
Corby and Kettering - 01536 201973
Northampton - 01604 627027
Towcester - 01327 701674
Wellingborough - 01933 271879

Northamptonshire Drug and Alcohol Services:
Northampton and South of County - 01604 233227
Single point of contact - 0845 603 0847
Aquarius: 4 St Georges Street, Northampton - 01604 632421
National Drugs Helpline 0800 776600
Drinkline 0800 917 8282
Alcoholics Anonymous - 0845 697555

Alcohol Concern - 020 7395 4000
Website: www.alcoholconcern.org.uk

Talk to Frank - 0800 77 66 00
Website: www.talktofrank.com

Solve It - 01536 510010
www.solveitonline.co.uk

Sub Zero Substance Misuse
Northampton - 01604 544530
Wellingborough - 01933 274797