Staying safe over the festive season

The Outer Hebrides Alcohol and Drug Partnership (OHADP) social media winter campaign is focussing on reminding individuals of the harms caused by drug use and how to keep yourself and others safe.  

In 2023, there were 1,172 deaths caused by drug misuse in Scotland. This is an increase of 121 deaths compared with 2022. Opiates and opioids, including heroin, morphine and methadone were implicated in 80% of those deaths with street benzodiazepines linked to 572.

Worryingly, there are more dangerous and potent drugs in circulation which contain substances which could affect your reaction. OHADP advises people not to take illegal drugs. However, if you do, it is important that you only try a small amount and wait at least an hour to gauge the effects before considering taking any more, and only take drugs in a safe environment and not alone.

Spiking has had increased publicity, where a person is given alcohol or drugs by someone else without their consent.  Spiking using Ketamine or Cocaine can be very dangerous when mixed with alcohol, as this could result in an overdose. Be aware of the signs to look out for such as confusion, loss of co-ordination, slurred speech, and vomiting. If you suspect you or someone you know has been spiked, stay with them and alert the venue manager, who should notify the police immediately and call an ambulance if there is a deterioration. Spiking is an offence, and anyone charged with this crime could face a prison sentence. Make sure to ask staff at local licensed bars and clubs for spiking covers or bottle stoppers to prevent your drink getting spiked.

Naloxone can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, from drugs such as heroin, methadone, and buprenorphine, as well as other illicit and prescribed opiate-based medications. A discreet click and deliver postal service for Naloxone prefilled injection or nasal spray kit are available from Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol and Drugs through their secure online portal – https://www.sfad.org.uk/support-services/take-home-naloxone.

Look after yourself, your friends and family. If you are worried about your own drug use or someone else’s use, please have a chat with your GP or nurse practitioner. You can also find a list of local and national services available in the Outer Hebrides Alcohol and Drug Partnership Recovery Support Services Directory – Alcohol & Drug Services « Alcohol Drug Partnership. There are also various sites; SFAD’s website contains drug and alcohol factsheets, information on prescription drugs, support for LGBTQ+ people, families, and communities as well as helplines and online forums.    

If you are Worried About Your Drug Use? – Know the Score website contains information on the most current, up to date drugs and their side effects.  

Keep an eye on NHS Western Isles’ social media pages for daily posts with further information on alcohol and drugs over Christmas and New Year.