Substance misuse
Alcohol
The legal age to drink alcohol is 18 years old. For under 18 year olds, it is illegal to buy alcoholic drinks or to ask someone over 18 to buy alcohol for you. Alcohol is a depressant, which means it slows the function of the central nervous system. Alcohol actually blocks some of the messages trying to get to the brain. This alters a person's:
- perceptions
- emotions
- movement
- vision
- hearing
When large amounts of alcohol are drunk in a short period, alcohol poisoning can result. Alcohol poisoning is exactly what it sounds like; the body has become poisoned by large amounts of alcohol. Violent vomiting is usually the first symptom of alcohol poisoning.
- extreme sleepiness
- unconsciousness
- difficulty breathing
- dangerously low blood sugar
- seizures
- death may even result
If you need any help or advice about alcohol then you can always talk to your Social Worker / Personal Advisor who may make a referral to a specialist organisation.
Drugs
Drugs are illegal and can be incredibly unpredictable. The effects that drugs can have vary from one person to another. Some drugs come in pill or tablet form, which are usually swallowed; some come in a powder form which can be snorted, smoked or injected, and some are in an herb or resin form which is usually smoked. Depending on the drug, the effects vary greatly but most give the user a ‘high’ and it is this high that can become addictive. However, after every high there is a come-down and they can be very unpleasant. Drugs can also lead to life threatening diseases and death. There are many reasons that you may begin taking drugs. The most common reason is pressure from friends.
Do you need help?
Worried about drugs or want some information? You can call FRANK confidentially and for free from a landline, 24 hours a day on 0800 776600, or visit Talk to FRANK. FRANK offers a confidential, non-judgemental drugs advice, information and support about legal and illegal substances. Don't forget you can also talk to your Social Worker / Personal Advisor or one of the organisations listed in this handbook.
Below is a list of a few services available in Southend-on-Sea:
Open Road
Open Road is a Drug and Alcohol support service in Essex and Medway that can work with you from the age of 10 up to the age of 29 years old. This service can offer support:
- For you if you struggle with drugs and alcohol
- For parents, carers and teachers
- Whole family support
- Online resources
You can visit the website for more information and make a self-referral. Someone will get back to you within 2 working days.
Please visit: www.openroad.org.uk
STARS (Southend Treatment and Recovery Service)
STARS are the providers of adult specialist substance misuse treatment in Southend. STARS provide advice, information and treatment to anyone over the age of 18 who is looking to address their drug and/or alcohol use.
STARS provide a range of services including:
- structured support groups
- 1 to 1 key working
- women-only sessions etc
- Support to you if you have been impacted by drug/alcohol use of a loved one
- Help to detox
- Prescribed medication (following assessment)
- Health checks and testing
- Support from peers who have been through similar experiences
They can also facilitate access to residential treatment placements where appropriate.
- call 01702 431889,
- email,
- visit the website, or
- drop in to: 25-27 Weston Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1AS