Many chemical substances are used as drugs. Some are used to treat or prevent disease. These are prescribed by health professionals for an individual depending on the disease and the person’s health.

Other substances are taken for the effects they produce. Many drugs are illegal. Effects can be both pleasant and harmful. Many effects will depend on how a person is feeling both physically and emotionally.

Below is information aimed at parents and carers.

Websites:

• We Are With You – Advice for friends and family
• What to do if your student son or daughter is taking drugs – An article that gives advice to parents whose student young people are taking drugs. It reassures parents there are steps they can take, and encourages open communication. A variety of harm reduction strategies are described.
• Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol and Drugs– Advice and support for those affected by an alcohol or drug problem of a family member.
• The Drugs Wheels – Useful website for categorising drugs and their effects

Publications

• Talking to your child about Legal Highs
• You Your Child and Drugs
• Drugs and Alcohol information Leaflet – HADP (please note this resource contains outdated alcohol unit guidance).