Substance misuse

What is substance misuse?

Substance misuse refers to using drugs, alcohol, or other substances in a way that is harmful to oneself or others. This can mean using illegal drugs, taking prescription medication in a way that wasn’t intended by a doctor, or drinking alcohol excessively. Substance misuse can have serious effects on a person’s health, relationships, education, and future.

  • Using Harmful Substances: This includes using illegal drugs like cannabis, cocaine, or ecstasy, as well as legal substances like alcohol, tobacco, or prescription medications in harmful ways.
  • Overuse or Abuse: Taking more of a substance than recommended or using it too often. Even legal substances like alcohol or over-the-counter medications can be misused if not taken as intended.

Why Do People Misuse Substances?

  • Peer Pressure: Wanting to fit in or be accepted by friends who are using substances.
  • Stress and Coping: Some people turn to substances to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, or other emotional issues.
  • Curiosity or Experimentation: Some people may wonder what it could be like to be under the influence.

Risks and Consequences of Substance Misuse

  • Health Risks: Substance misuse can lead to physical and mental health problems, including addiction, memory loss, heart and lung issues, and even overdose and death.
  • Impact on Life and Relationships: Misusing substances can affect relationships with family and friends, lead to poor performance in school or sports, and result in legal trouble.
  • Addiction: Regular misuse of substances can lead to addiction, where a person feels they cannot function without the substance, making it difficult to stop even if they want to.

What Is Addiction?

Addiction happens when a person becomes physically or psychologically dependent on a substance and feels they cannot function without it. Over time, the body and brain start to need more of the substance to feel “normal.”

What Can You Do if You or Someone You Know is Misusing Substances?

  • Talk to a Trusted Adult: If you are worried about your own or someone else’s substance use, speak to a parent, or teacher, or someone else that you trust.
  • Seek Professional Help: There are professionals and organisations that specialise in helping young people who struggle with substance misuse.
  • Stay Informed and Make Healthy Choices: Learn about the effects and risks associated with different substances and choose to stay away from harmful behaviours.

Resources coming soon

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Get help

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger please dial 999.

If you need help and advice call childline 0800 1111 or text the missing persons helpline 116 000.

If you have concerns about a young person who might be at risk or someone you suspect is an offender call your local police on 101 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.