Drugs anD Alcohol

Talk about it….You can’t prevent your child from coming into contact with drugs and alcohol, but by talking openly with them about the issues, you can help them to stay safe and make positive choices.

It’s never too early to raise the subject, and it’s far better that you provide them with straightforward, factual information than for them to be misinformed by their friends. This booklet will help you to be better informed.

If drugs or alcohol are mentioned on television or in a newspaper, use the opportunity to have a discussion and ask your child what they know. You could also find out what drug and alcohol education is provided in your child’s school, so that you can help to reinforce what they learn in class.

Bring the subject up again at times when they’re experiencing stress e.g. before exams or when they’re most likely to be exposed to drugs and alcohol such as parties, festivals or holidays.

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Should you be worried?

Some young people will experiment with drugs, but the majority of those who do, won't continue to use them. Even so it is worth being aware of the following signs that may indicate drug use:

• Secretive behaviour

• Loss of interest in school, sports, hobbies and old friends

• Lack of concentration, apathy or aggressive behaviour

• borrowing money or money going missing

However there could be other explanations for this type of behaviour, so it’s important not to jump to conclusions.

If there is a problem, try to be calm and supportive. Contact Windsor, Ascot and Maidenhead’s Young People’s Substance Misuse Service for advice. They provide free and confidential information, advice and one to one support for under 18s.

Young People’s Substance Misuse Service (YPSMS)

Tel: 01628 796518

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AlcoholAlcohol is a powerful drug. It’s a depressant which means it slows your body down. A little can make you feel great, too much can kill you.

Other namesBooze, Bevy, Drink, Grog, Plonk and Poison.

What it looks like and how it’s taken• A wide range of drinks with different strengths and flavours.

The effects• The effects will vary depending on the amount drunk, your

age, physical build, gender and how much you’ve eaten.

• A small amount can make drinkers feel relaxed. A bit more will affect reaction times, decision making, and balance.

• Too much can cause vomiting, black outs and unconsciousness.

The risks• Large amounts of alcohol drunk in one go can cause alcohol

poisoning.

• Mixing alcohol with other drugs is very dangerous.

• You can become both physically and psychologically dependent on alcohol.

• Long-term, excessive use of alcohol causes illnesses such as chronic liver disease, cancer, heart disease and stroke.

The Law• It is against the law for anyone under 18 to buy or attempt to buy alcohol.

• It is illegal for an adult to buy or attempt to buy alcohol on behalf of someone under 18.

• If you’re 16 or over (and accompanied by an adult) you can drink beer, wine or cider with a meal in a restaurant.

• If the police find someone who is under 18 in possession of alcohol, they have the power to confiscate it.

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Gases, Glues and AerosolsGases, glues and aerosols can all be sniffed to achieve a ‘high’. Products used include: gas lighter refills, aerosols containing hairspray, deodorants and air fresheners, tins or tubes of glue, some paints, thinners and cleaning fluids.Other namesSniff, Puff, Squirt.What they look like and how they're taken• Sniffed or breathed into the lungs from a cloth or sleeve. Some

users put a plastic bag over their head and inhale that way.• Gas products are sometimes squirted directly into the back of

the throat.The effects• Effects are similar to being very drunk.• Users feel thick-headed, dizzy, giggly and dreamy.• Users may hallucinate.• Effects don’t last very long, but users can remain intoxicated

all day by repeating the dose.The risks• Nausea, vomiting and black-outs.• Squirting gas products down the throat may cause the body

to produce fluid that floods the lungs and this can cause instant death.

• Risk of suffocation if the substance is inhaled from a bag over the head.

• Potentially fatal accidents can happen when the user is high because their senses are impaired.

• Long-term abuse of solvents can damage the brain, liver and kidneys.

• There’s a risk of fatal heart problems, which have been known to kill users the very first time they sniff.• Some of these products are highly flammable and are a serious fire risk if used near naked flames/lit cigarettes.The Law• It is not illegal to possess or use these products, but it is illegal to sell some of them to under 18s.

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New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) formerly known as Legal HighsNew Psychoactive Substances or NPS are what we used to call Legal Highs. NPS are substances that mimic the effects of drugs like cocaine and MDMA. There are hundreds of different NPS available.

Other namesPlant Food, Bath Salts, Research Chemicals.

What they look like and how they're taken• A range of pills and powders that are usually snorted,

swallowed or smoked.

The effects• The aim is to get high or feel ‘a buzz’.

• The chemicals used and the strength of the substances will vary from packet to packet, so you can never be sure what you are getting or what effect it will have on you.

The risks• We know very little about the long term dangers of taking

NPS.

• However If they have similar effects to cocaine and MDMA, they are likely to carry similar health risks such as increased risk of heart problems, seizures, comas and in the worst cases death.

The Law• The law changed in May 2016. NPS are legal to possess for personal use, but it is illegal to sell them. Giving them away to friends also counts as dealing.

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Nitrous OxideNitrous Oxide is better known as laughing gas and is extremely popular in the UK. Dentists mix the gas with oxygen and use it as an anaesthetic. It is also used by the catering industry as a propellant to make whipped cream.

Other namesNOS, Nitrous, NOx, Laughing Gas, Whippits, Chargers

What it looks like and how it’s taken• A colourless gas with a slightly sweet odour and taste.• Most people get the gas from ‘whippits’ (silver or blue metal

cartridges about 7cm long). Using a ‘cracker’ (metal dispenser) the gas is released from the ‘whippit’ and used to inflate a balloon. The gas is then inhaled directly from the balloon.

• Homemade masks can also be used to inhale the gas.• At some clubs, festivals and ‘raves’ large nitrous oxide canisters

are used to fill balloons.

The effects• It produces a brief ‘high’ or ‘head rush’ similar to drinking

alcohol, but a more intense ‘blast’ that lasts for about 2 minutes.• This is followed by light-headedness, giggling, dizziness, distorted

sound, slurred speech, difficulty walking and confusion. • Some people get headaches and feel sick after they inhale the

gas.

The risks• It affects coordination and balance, so injuries such as bumps,

falls and concussion are common. • It is dangerous to use the gas with alcohol. • If you inhale too much gas, you may fall

unconscious.• Heavy and regular use can cause

nerve damage leading to tingling and numbness in the fingers and toes and even difficulties walking.

The Law• The law changed in May 2016. Nitrous

Oxide is legal to possess for personal use, but it is illegal to sell. Giving it away to friends also counts as dealing.

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'Smart' DrugsThese drugs are taken to increase alertness, focus, concentration and memory. In recent years, they have become popular among some students and those working in high pressure jobs.The most commonly used ‘smart' drugs are prescription drugs which have been designed for other things. Modafinil is used to treat sleep disorders and Ritalin is used to increase focus and concentration for those with ADHD and ADD. Adderall and Dexamphetamine are used to treat both sleep disorders and ADHD.

Other namesModafinil (also known as Provigil and Alertec), Ritalin (also known as Methylphenidate), Adderall, Dexamphetamine, ‘nootropics’, ‘brain boosters’, ‘cognitive enhancing drugs’.

What they look like and how they're taken• A range of tablets, pills and capsules.

The effects• Improved productivity.• Increased alertness/ability to stay awake.• Side effects include headaches, anxiety, nausea, loss of

appetite and rashes.

The risks• It is difficult to get to sleep while using these drugs which can

lead to severe fatigue.• If used regularly, they can result in difficulty concentrating.• Some of these drugs increase the heart rate, so should not be

used by those with high blood pressure or heart conditions.• Some of these drugs stop the contraceptive pill from working,

so other forms of protection need to be used.• It is dangerous to drink alcohol while taking these drugs.• Some of these drugs are addictive.

The Law• Modafinil is not illegal to possess without a prescription, but it is an offence to sell it or give it away to friends. Ritalin, Adderall and Dexamphetamine are class B drugs.

They are illegal to possess without a prescription.

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Anabolic SteroidsAnabolic Steroids are prescription drugs that mimic the effects of the male hormone testosterone. They are taken illegally by bodybuilders to increase their muscle mass. Some sports people use them to help improve their athletic performance. Young men may take them just to look bigger and stronger.

Other namesRoids, Juice, Gear, Vitamin S

What they look like and how they're takenThere are many different kinds of Anabolic Steroids. They come as tablets, capsules or as a liquid which is injected into the muscle.

The effects• Anabolic steroids boost muscle growth. They allow you to train

harder and help your body recover more quickly from exercise.• They make some users feel paranoid, irritable and aggressive or

even violent (known as ‘Roid Rage’).• They can also cause unwanted changes to your appearance.

Regular use by men can lead to breast growth, shrunken testicles, acne and hair loss.

The risks• Anabolic Steroids are powerful drugs which have severe side

effects. If you take them before you are fully grown, there is a risk that you won’t grow any taller.

• They increase your blood pressure and can lead to heart attacks and stroke.

• Ongoing use can lead to erection problems and you may become infertile.

• If you don’t inject properly or use needles that are not sterile, you are likely to get skin infections.

• Sharing needles puts you at risk of dangerous infections such as Hepatitis B and C and HIV/AIDS.

The Law• Anabolic Steroids are Class C drugs. It is legal to possess them for personal use, but it is illegal to sell them or give them away to friends.

Prescription DrugsSome people use prescription drugs to alter their mood. They take them from family members who have been prescribed them by a doctor, or buy them from the internet or street dealers.

Commonly abused prescription drugs include:• Opioids (strong pain killers) such as Codeine• Central Nervous System depressants used to treat anxiety and

sleep disorders e.g. Xanax, Diazepam and Temazepam.• Antihistamines (used to treat allergies and hay fever).What they look like and how they're taken• A range of pills, tablets and capsules.The effectsPrescription drugs cover a wide range of medications, so vary in their effects. Some of the commonly misused drugs cause:• Feelings of warmth and well-being, calm and relaxation. • Relief of tension and anxiety.• Users may feel very sleepy.• Larger doses of Xanax can cause a ‘trippy’, euphoric state.The risks• Taking more than the prescribed dose can lead to severe side

effects.• Mixing these drugs with alcohol or other drugs (including other

prescribed medication) can be fatal. • Some of these drugs such as Xanax should only be used for a short

period of time and are extremely addictive (at high doses users can become physically dependent on Xanax within a few days).

• Withdrawing from these drugs may result in symptoms such as headaches, nausea, anxiety, depression, seizures, tremors and insomnia.

The Law• It is illegal to possess these drugs without a prescription. Codeine is a Class B drug. The other drugs listed are Class C drugs (see page 24).

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Synthetic CannabisSynthetic cannabis is nothing like regular cannabis. It is made by spraying herbs or leaves with chemicals. These chemicals are supposed to mimic the effects of regular cannabis. However they are much stronger and have severe side effects.

Other namesBrand Names: Spice, K2, Annihilation, Exodus Damnation, Mary Joy, Black Mamba, Clockwork Orange, Bud Factory. Also known as herbal incense or herbal smoking blends or referred to as ‘Spice’.

What it looks like and how it’s taken• Synthetic cannabis comes in colourful, branded plastic packets. It

is mixed with tobacco and rolled into a spliff or joint and then smoked. • It can also be smoked without tobacco in a bong (pipe). • The synthetic cannabis at the bottom of the bag is stronger than

that at the top, so the effects will be more powerful.

The effects• Users may feel happy and relaxed.• They may get the giggles, feel hungry (known as 'the munchies')

and become very talkative. • Some people may feel drowsy.• Hallucinations are more likely with synthetic cannabis. Mood and

perception can change and concentration and co-ordination may become difficult.

• Some users will experience bad reactions. Paranoia, panic attacks and forgetfulness are all linked to using the drug.

The risks• It is addictive.• The side effects are much worse than regular cannabis. • They include; nausea, blurred vision, high blood pressure, rapid heart rate and panic attacks. • In the worst cases, people have had fits and heart attacks and have died.• Synthetic cannabis use can cause psychosis (a severe mental health condition). • Little is known about the long term effects of using synthetic cannabis.

The Law• Some brands of synthetic cannabis are class B drugs. Other brands are legal to possess for personal use, but are illegal to give away or sell.

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CannabisThe most widely used illegal drug in Britain. It’s a naturally occurring drug made from parts of the cannabis plant. It’s a mild hallucinogen and often gives sedative like effects that make some people feel chilled out and others feel sick. Cannabis contains a chemical called THC which is what makes people feel high or ‘stoned’. It’s a mild hallucinogen which means that colours, sounds, movements and time may become distortedOther namesMarijuana, Draw, Blow, Weed, Puff, Dope, Gear, Zoot, Hash, Ganja, Spliff, Wacky Backy, Skunk, Smoke, Pot, Bush, Grass.What it looks like and how it’s taken• Leaves, stalks and seeds called ‘grass’.• Stronger varieties of ‘grass’ are known as ‘skunk’.• Hash (a soft brown lump made from resin) and cannabis oil are

far less common. • Can be smoked using a ‘bong’ (water cooled pipe) or bucket.The effects• Users feel relaxed and ‘chilled out'. Some become giggly while

others are talkative’.• Colours may look brighter and music may sound better.• May bring on a craving for food (referred to as ‘having the

munchies’).• Some users feel paranoid and anxious after taking the drug,

while others feel lightheaded and sick.The risks• It affects the short term memory making it harder to learn and

concentrate.• It can leave people tired and lacking energy.• Users may lack motivation and lose interest in things they used

to enjoy.• It can trigger mental health problems in some, especially if

these things run in the family.• Smoking ‘joints’ over a long period of time can lead to respiratory diseases including lung cancer.

The Law• Class B drug (see page 24).

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Mephedrone / MCAT

Mephedrone is a man made drug that is closely related to amphetamines. It is a powerful stimulant.

Other names Meow Meow, Magic, Bubble, Drone, MCAT, 4MMC, Meph and Top Cat.

What it looks like and how it’s takenWhite or off white crystal like powder which is snorted or

‘bombed’ (wrapped in paper and then swallowed).It can also be injected. Mephedrone can also come in pill form.

The effects Mephedrone gives users an intense ‘buzz’. The ‘high’ lasts for

about an hour and then begins to wear off. They feel energetic, alert, confident, talkative, happy and

affectionate. Large doses may cause hallucinations. Users are often left craving more. Some users feel paranoid and anxious after taking the drug,

while others get headaches and feel sick.

The risks It can overstimulate the nervous system causing agitation and fits. Some users get severe nosebleeds after snorting Mephedrone

and regular use can damage the inside of the nose. It can overstimulate the heart causing palpitations.It can be fatal if mixed with alcohol or other drugs. Users have reported cold or blue fingers because the drug affects the circulation.

The LawClass B drug (see page 24).

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Magic MushroomsMagic Mushrooms grow naturally in the wild. They can make you hallucinate. This means that users experience a distortion of objects and reality which may include seeing and hearing things that aren’t there. This is known as a ‘trip’.

Other names

‘Shrooms’, Mushies, Liberties, Magics

What they look like and how they're takenThe most common is the Liberty Cap which is a small, skinny,

tan coloured mushroom.These mushrooms are eaten raw, dried, cooked in food, or

stewed into a tea.

The effectsUsers feel giggly and confident.‘Trips’ last for about 4 hours. Colours, sounds, objects, time and

movement can all be distorted.

The risksCan cause stomach pains, sickness and diarrhoea.Eating the wrong kind of mushroom can cause serious illness

and even fatal poisoning.Can make existing mental health problems worse.

The LawClass A drug (see page 24).

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KetamineKetamine is a short-acting but powerful general anaesthetic, which depresses the nervous system and causes a temporary loss of body sensation. That’s why it has been used for operating on humans and animals. It has powerful hallucinogenic qualities (causing a distortion of objects and reality).

Other namesK, Ket, Special K, Super K, Vitamin K.

What it looks like and how it’s takenLegally produced ketamine for medical use is a liquid that is

injected.‘Street’ ketamine is a grainy white powder which is usually

snorted. Sometimes it comes in tablet form.

The effectsAt low levels, it can boost energy levels and make users feel

euphoric and high.They may feel numb and in a dreamy, floaty state. Many

users have hallucinations which can last for hours.A larger dose can lead to users having an out of body

experience (where they feel separated from their body) and are unable to move or talk. This is known as entering the ‘K-hole’.

The risksIt can cause panic attacks, depression and in large doses,

can make mental health problems like schizophrenia worse.A high dose can slow the breathing and heart rate right down

and lead to unconsciousness.If you’re sick, there’s a risk you could choke on your vomit.Taking the drug at parties or festivals could put users at risk of

sexual attack (if they are unable to move or speak).Regular use causes severe bladder, kidney and liver damage. It can be fatal if mixed with alcohol and other drugs.

The LawClass B drug

MDMA/EcstasyMDMA is one of the most popular party drugs. It is a stimulant that users take to stay awake and dance for hours. Ecstasy tablets are made from MDMA.

Other namesE, Pills, XTC, Dolphins, MD, Molly, Mandy.

What it looks like and how it’s takenEcstasy tablets come in different shapes, sizes and colours

and may be stamped with logos or images. They are swallowed.

MDMA comes as either a powder or as crystals and is generally off white. It can be snorted, smoked, dissolved in a drink or ‘bombed’ (wrapped in paper and then swallowed).

The effectsMDMA gives users an energy buzz.They feel alert and in tune with their surroundings.Sound, colour and emotions seem much more intense.The effects last from three to six hours.

The risksCan leave users feeling tired or depressed for days.There's a risk of overheating and dehydration if users dance

energetically without taking breaks or drinking enough fluids (users should sip about a pint of non-alcoholic fluid such as fruit juice, sports drink, or water every hour).

Some experts are concerned that use of ecstasy can lead to brain damage causing depression in

later life.Use has been linked to liver, kidney and heart problems.

The LawClass A drug (see page 24).

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GHB (Gammahydroxybutrate) andGBL (GammabutyrolactoneGHB and GBL are closely related. GBL converts to GHB shortly after entering the body. Both are dangerous drugs with sedative and anaesthetic effects. It's hard to tell the difference between a dose that gives a pleasant buzz and one that could kill you. They are used as clubbing drugs. However, because they’re almost tasteless, they’re easily slipped into drinks and have been used in sex attacks.

Other namesGBH, Liquid Ecstasy, 1, 4-BD, GEEBS

What it looks like and how it’s takenClear liquids with no smell, which taste slightly salty.Comes in small bottles or capsules. A teaspoon or capful is a

normal dose.GHB sometimes comes in powder form.

The effectsCan make you feel euphoric, sensual and uninhibited.Effects can last up to a whole day.

The risksCan be fatal if mixed with alcohol or other drugs.Higher doses can make the user feel dizzy and sleepy and

can cause vomiting, muscle spasms and loss of consciousness. Overdoses will slow breathing down to a

dangerously low rate. You can become physically

dependent on GHB/GBL.

The LawClass C drug (see page 24).

Amphetamine Sulphate / SpeedSpeed is the street name for amphetamine sulphate. It is a stimulant that people take to keep them alert and awake. The term ‘speed’ is sometimes used to refer to other types of amphetamines.

Other namesSpeed, Whizz, Billy, Base, Paste, Phet, Sulph.

What it looks like and how it’s takenAn off-white or pinkish powder that can sometimes look like

small crystals. The ‘base’ form of speed is usually purer and is a pinkish-grey colour and feels like putty.

It can be snorted, swallowed, dabbed on the gums, smoked, dissolved in a drink or injected.

The effectsMakes people feel wide awake, energised, excited and

chatty.Clubbers take it because it gives them the energy to dance

for hours without getting tired.Some users feel agitated and anxious or aggressive.

The risksIt has a long, slow comedown. Users may feel tired, irritable

and depressed for days.It can cause panic attacks.Using speed puts a strain on the heart.Heavy long-term use can lead to mental illness.Mixing speed with anti-depressants or alcohol can be fatal.Sharing injecting equipment puts users at risk of dangerous

infections like Hepatitis B or C and HIV/AIDS.

The LawClass B drug, but Class A if prepared for injection (see page 24).

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LSDLSD is a powerful hallucinogen. This means that users are likely to hallucinate when they take it and experience a distortion of objects and reality. This may include seeing and hearing things that aren’t there. This is known as a ‘trip’.

Other namesAcid, Tab, Blotter, L, Doses, Trips, Dots.

What it looks like and how it’s takenLSD is usually sold as tiny squares of paper with pictures on

them known as ‘tabs’ or ‘blotters’ which are swallowed.It can also be found as a liquid or as tiny pellets which are also

swallowed.

The effectsThe effects will depend on your mood, surroundings and who

you are with. If you are in a bad mood, worried or depressed, LSD may make these feelings worse.

A ‘good’ trip can make users feel relaxed and happy while a ‘bad’ trip can make users feel agitated and confused, with unpleasant or terrifying hallucinations.

The effects of LSD last 6-12 hours and once a trip has started, there is no way you can stop it.

LSD can make users feel tired, anxious, panicky and depressed.

Users may experience ‘flashbacks’ (where part of the trip is relived). Flashbacks usually occur within weeks of taking LSD, but can be experienced months or even years later.

The risksUsers have been known to harm themselves during a bad trip.LSD can make mental health

problems much worse. It can also trigger mental

health problems in some people, especially if these things run in the family.

The LawClass A drug (see page 24).

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CocaineCocaine is a stimulant with powerful, but short-lived effects.

Other namesCoke, Charlie, Snow, C, Toot, White, Percy.

What it looks like and how it’s taken• White powder that is snorted up the nose using a straw,

dabbed on the gums or sometimes dissolved and injected.

The effects• Users have a strong sense of wellbeing. They feel great -

energetic, alert and have increased confidence. • Cocaine raises the body temperature and makes the heart

beat faster.• The effects last 20-30 minutes.• Users are often left craving more.

The risks• It is addictive.• Regular snorting will damage the inside of the users' nose.• Users are left feeling tired and depressed for one or two days or

longer.• Can cause chest pain and heart problems that can be fatal.• Heavy use can cause convulsions. • People who use it regularly often develop serious problems with

anxiety and paranoia. It’s a known cause of panic attacks. • Taking alcohol and cocaine together is particularly dangerous

as the substances interact in the body to produce a toxic chemical called cocaethylene.

• Cocaethylene puts extra stress on the heart by increasing the heart rate and blood pressure.

There is 21 times the risk of sudden death when combined.• Sharing equipment (straws & needles) puts users at risk of infections like Hepatitis B or C and HIV/AIDS.The Law• Class A drug (see page 24).

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Crack CocaineCrack is a stimulant with powerful, but short-lived effects. Crack is much stronger and more addictive than cocaine.

Other namesRock, Wash, Stone, Pebbles, Base, Freebase.

What it looks like and how it’s taken• Small raisin-sized lumps or rocks which are smoked in a pipe

or ‘bong’.• ‘Speedballing’ is when crack and heroin are injected

together.

The effects• Crack has the same effects as cocaine but with a more

intense and shorter high of about 5 to 10 minutes.• Users feel exhilarated, extremely confident, alert and ‘on top

of the world’. Some become arrogant and aggressive.• Users are often left craving more.

The risks• It is addictive.• Users are left feeling tired and depressed for one or two days

or longer.• It can cause chest pain and heart problems that can be

fatal.• Heavy use can cause convulsions.• People who use it regularly often develop serious problems

with anxiety and paranoia. It’s a known cause of panic attacks.

• As the high is so intense, crack use is very difficult to control.• Regular smoking can cause breathing problems.• Sharing equipment (pipes and needles) puts users at risk of

infections like Hepatitis B or C and HIV/AIDS.

The Law• Class A drug (see page 24).

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HeroinHeroin is made from morphine which is extracted from the opium poppy. Like many drugs made from opium, heroin is a very strong painkiller.

Other namesSmack, Brown, Horse, Gear, Junk, H, Scag.

What it looks like and how it’s taken• Brownish-white powder which is smoked, snorted or

dissolved and injected.• Sometimes heroin and crack are injected together and this

is called ‘Speedballing.’

The effects• Small doses give the user a sense of warmth and well-

being.• Larger doses can make them drowsy and relaxed.• Heroin slows down body functioning and reduces physical

and psychological pain.• Most users get a rush or buzz a few minutes after taking it.

The risks• Heroin is addictive (even when smoked).• Users who form a habit may end up taking the drug just to

feel normal.• Excessive amounts can result in overdose, coma and in

some cases death.• Regular injecting can result in significant damage to veins.• Sharing injecting equipment puts users at risk of dangerous infections like Hepatitis B or C and HIV/AIDS.• There's also a risk of death due to inhaling vomit as heroin stops the body's cough reflex working properly.

The Law• Class A drug (see page 24).

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Methamphetamine (Crystal Meth)Methamphetamine is part of the amphetamine family of stimulant drugs. It is much longer lasting than other stimulants and is an extremely powerful and addictive drug.

Other namesIce, Glass, Tina, Christine, Yaba, Crank, Tweak.

What it looks like and how it’s taken• It comes as a tablet, powder or crystals.• The powder is snorted or injected.• The crystal form is smoked in a pipe.

The effects• Gives a very intense rush similar to crack but lasts between 4

and 12 hours. Users can stay awake for days.• It can bring on a feeling of exhilaration and produces

increased arousal and activity levels.• People feel more awake and it suppresses appetite.• Users are often left craving more.

The risks• It is very addictive and people often end up bingeing on it.• It can cause mental health problems.• It can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.• Teeth and gums can rot away (known as ‘meth mouth’).• Some people get skin ulcers through picking at bugs they

imagine are crawling under their skin.• Sharing equipment puts users at risk of infections like Hepatitis B or C and HIV/AIDS.• Using the drug increases sex drive and may lead to risky sexual behaviour.

The Law• Class A drug (see page 24).

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Drug GroupsSTIMULANTSThe Drugs• Caffeine• Nicotine• Cocaine• Crack• Amphetamine/Speed• Mephedrone/MCAT• MDMA/Ecstasy• Smart drugs

The Effects• Stimulates the central nervous system• Increases heart rate• Increases breathing• Increases alertness• Increases perceptions• Increases activity

HALLUCINOGENSThe Drugs• Magic Mushrooms• Ketamine• LSD• Synthetic Cannabis

The Effects• Alters perception of: - Sights - Sounds - Touch - Smell - Taste - Time• Affects thinking and self-awareness

DEPRESSANTSThe Drugs• Alcohol• Anti-Depressants• Benzodiazapines (Valium)• Gases, Glues and Aerosols• GHB/GBL• Cannabis

The Effects• Depresses the central nervous system• Decreases heart rate• Decreases breathing• Decreases alertness• Decreases perceptions• Decreases activity

OPIATESThe Drugs• Heroin• Morphine• Codeine• Pethidine

The Effects• Pain killers• Relaxation of all body functions: - Thinking - Feeling - Breathing - Movement - Digestion

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The LawMISUSE OF DRUGS ACT 1971 - MAXIMUM PENALTIES

The misuse of Drugs Act 1971 divides controlled dugs into three categories: Classes ‘A’, ‘B’, and ‘C’.

They are classified according to their degree of harmfulness or danger, both to the individual and to society at large, with penalties varying accordingly.

Possession Supply

Class A 7 years imprisonment Life imprisonment or a fine or both or a fine or both

Class B 5 years imprisonment 14 years imprisonment or a fine or both or a fine or both

Class C 2 years imprisonment 14 years imprisonment or a fine or both or a fine or both

Be aware that you may face criminal charges if your child produces, gives away or sells illegal drugs in your home. Allowing your child to smoke cannabis in your home is also illegal.

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Feeling Good Naturally

1. Be Active

Teenagers should do some sort of physical activity each day – ideally for an hour. Even gentle exercise boosts levels of serotonin (the brain’s natural happy hormone) and also leads to better and deeper sleep. If they don’t enjoy team sports, there are plenty of other options available such as walking, cycling, swimming, dancing, fitness classes or the gym.

2. Get some Sleep

Teenagers need between 9 and 9.5 hours sleep a night, but generally only get 7 to 7.5 hours. If they don’t get enough sleep, they are likely to be irritable and will struggle to concentrate at school. They will also crave sugary and starchy food to give them energy which could cause them to put on weight.

Tips for a good night’s sleep

• Talk about things that worry you, so that you can put your problems in perspective.

• Do not use phones or tablets in bed. They emit a blue light similar to natural daylight and fool your brain into thinking it's morning.

• Don’t drink anything with caffeine in (tea, coffee, cola and energy drinks) before bed as caffeine stops you falling asleep and prevents deep sleep.

• Don’t binge before bed as a full stomach can cause discomfort throughout the night.

3. Eat more Healthily

Diet is really important for good health. If teenagers have breakfast and eat regular meals that include fruit and vegetables they will feel better for it. The junk food that most teenagers enjoy contains few nutrients, but is high in calories. Wherever possible replace it with fruit and healthier snacks.

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NATIONAL CONTACTS

• Drinkline 0300 123 1110 www.drinkaware.co.uk

•National Drugs Helpline 0300 123 6600 www.talktofrank.com

•Re-Solv (solvent abuse) 01785 810762 www.re-solv.org

• Family Lives (parenting advice) 0808 800 2222 www.familylives.org.uk

•NACOA (National Association of Children of Alcoholics)

0800 358 3456 www.nacoa.org.uk

•COAP (Children of Addicted Parents and People)

www.coap.org.uk

•Kooth (online mental health support for teens) www.kooth.com

LOCAL CONTACTS•Young People’s Substance Misuse Service (YPSMS)

01628 796518 Free and confidential support for under 18s.

•Resilience 01628 796733 Drug and alcohol recovery service for over 18s

offering free and confidential support. •Number 22, Maidenhead 01628 636661 Free, confidential, one-to-one counselling service.

•Youth Talk, Windsor 01753 842444 Free, confidential, one-to-one counselling service.

•Parenting Service Provides Triple P parenting courses for parents of

primary aged children (2-10 years) and teens (11-17 years).

parenting@rbwm.gov.uk

For copies of this leaflet please contact:Royal Borough of Windsor & MaidenheadDrug & Alcohol Action Team01628 796362daat@rbwm.gov.uk

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