How to Help Yourself and Others?

1

In an emergency?

If you're with someone who needs medical help, call an ambulance and tell the paramedics everything you know about the drugs taken, it could save their life. If you have any drugs left, hand them over to the paramedics as it may help. In most circumstances they won't tell the police, as they have a right to protect patient confidentiality. However, if the paramedics deem there is a threat they are legally required to disclose the information to the police. 

2

Peer Pressure

It can be tempting to do everything you can to fit in with your friends. But if you don't feel comfortable with something it's always okay to say "no". Remember:

1. Say it with confidence

2. Find friends who share the same values

3. Think of an excuse

4. Suggest something else to do

5. Avoid certain situations

6. Stand up for others

3

Concerned about a friend

Drugs and alcohol can be hard subjects to discuss, especially if you think your friend or relative has a problem, as they may not recognise they have one and may be reluctant to accept the support.

Try to stay open-minded and remember that, with the right help and support, most people overcome their use before any serious harm is caused. 

4

Avoid mixing

Mixing drugs is never a good idea, for a lot of reasons:

Taking two types of similar drugs can be dangerous, increasing the negative risks associated with both. For example, it is not a good idea to mix two depressants like alcohol and heroin.

Taking two drugs together can make one drug more dangerous than usual.

The risk of overdose is heightened when you take two drugs together. One drugs effects might cause you to take a higher than usual dose of another drug to feel it’s effects.

5

Know the risks

There are always risks involved when taking any kind of drug. Drugs can be unsafe and could make you very ill. Here are some of the risks:

  • Financial issues.
  • Falling behind with school work.
  • Falling out with family and friends.
  • Being more likely to do dangerous things.
  • Damage to your physical and mental health.
  • Overdosing or having a bad experience from what you've taken.
  • Becoming addicted and feeling like you can't cope without drugs.
  • Getting into trouble with the police or involved in a crime. Find out about your rights if you're stopped and searched by the police. Police powers to stop and search: your rights : Police powers to stop and search - GOV.UK

In an emergency? Call 999

Call the emergency services if you feel you or someone you know is in danger after taking drugs.

Support for drug addiction

Engage Knowsley, CGL

Engage is a free and confidential service for young people in Knowsley.

If you have issues with drugs or alcohol, they will be able to offer the expert support you need. You can access one-to-one support for people aged 10 - 18, as well as group work, and guidance and support for families and parents.

For help, specialist information, advice and treatment contact:

Engage Knowsley on
0151 545 9557
[email protected]

Talk to Frank

Talk to Frank for honest information about drugs.

You or a friend have any questions about drugs, you can call FRANK anytime for confidential advice.

 

Phone - 0300 123 6600 Call FRANK 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

 

Text - 82111 Text a question and FRANK will text you back.

Honest information about drugs | FRANK

CANNABIS

Cannabis is a plant-based drug, coming under the category of psychoactive substance. It can be smoked, eaten or vaped. Cannabis is a class B drug.

It is also known as:

Ganja, Marijuana, Polly, P-One, Mary-Jane, Weed. 

Cannabis

How does it make you feel

The effects of cannabis can vary from person to person, but many people say feeling 'stoned' makes them feel chilled out and happy in their own thoughts, with feelings of euphoria and relaxation, while others say it makes them giggly and chatty. However, it can also make people feel lethargic, unmotivated, paranoid, confused and anxious.

Physical health risks

It can damage you lungs, make you cough painfully, and make your asthma worse if you have it. Long term it can Increase the risk of lung cancer, affect your blood pressure, and impact the ability of men and women to have children.

Mental health risks

It affects your motivation to do things, impairs your memory so you can’t remember things or learn new information, gives you mood swings, disturb your sleep, can make you depressed and anxious (sometimes for days at a time). You can experience paranoia and hallucinations, and increase your chances of developing illnesses like drug induced psychosis. It can also lead users to becoming psychologically addicted.

The law

Cannabis is a Class B drug and possession carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison and/or an unlimited fine. Supply and production offences carry maximum penalties of up to 14 years in prison and/or an unlimited fine. If you are under 18 the police are allowed to inform your parents, carers or guardians if you are found in possession of illegal drugs. Police officers can issue a warning or an on the spot fine of £90 if you're caught with cannabis.