Winter Wellness: Reducing Risks Around Drugs

Winter in the Outer Hebrides brings colder temperatures, longer nights and sometimes more time indoors. If you choose to use drugs, taking a few simple precautions can reduce harm and help keep you, and your community, safe. The Outer Hebrides Alcohol & Drug Partnership would like to provide some advice to help make sure you stay safe.

Know the risks: In 2024, there were 1,017 drug deaths registered in Scotland, with an average age of 45 years. Health risks from drugs such as Ketamine can include bladder pain and long-term damage to the kidneys. In the most severe cases, the bladder is so badly damaged it must be removed. Cocaine brings serious risks, particularly to the heart, such as chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and increased risk of heart attack or stroke. Mixing drugs with alcohol or other drugs further heightens these dangers.

Take precautions: Cold weather puts extra strain on the body. Some drugs can increase this risk by affecting temperature and blood flow. If you’re out and about, stay warm, travel safely, and try not to use substances alone, especially in remote areas. Strength and purity can vary. If you’re trying something new or using it after a break, start with a very small amount and wait to feel the effects before taking more.

Take care with polydrug use: Combining alcohol with drugs, or mixing different drugs, can sharply increase the risk of overdose, falls, and injuries. If you do mix, reduce the amount of each substance and ensure someone you trust is around.

Eat well and stay hydrated: Winter gatherings can be fun, but people can become vulnerable quickly. Stay with friends, keep an eye on anyone who seems unwell, and don’t hesitate to get help. It is also advisable to stay hydrated and eat well. Certain drugs can affect blood sugar, so drink water, eat beforehand, and pace yourself throughout the evening.

Reduce the risks: It is advisable not to use drugs alone, but if you do, you should try to reduce the risks. Letting someone know where you are, keeping your phone charged and accessible, using small amounts at a time, and avoiding higher-risk substances are sensible precautions.

Overdose – know the signs: Knowing the signs of an overdose can be vital. These can include difficulty breathing, unresponsiveness, blue/grey lips or fingertips, very slow heart rate, and fitting/seizures. All of these require immediate help. If someone needs help because of an overdose, call 999 immediately and ask for an ambulance.

Naloxone can temporarily reverse opioid overdoses, such as heroin and codeine. If you or someone you know uses opioids and could be at risk of an overdose, you can request a Naloxone Take Home Kit through the Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol and Drugs (SFAD) postal service at https://www.sfad.org.uk/support-services/take-home-naloxone. If you carry it and learn how to use it, you could save a life this winter.

Know where to get support: If you feel you may have a problem with drugs, substances, or even prescribed medication, please talk to your GP. Local services are here to offer non-judgemental advice, support, and information at any time of the year. Seeking support is a strength, not a failure. You can also find information on other alcohol and drug services available in Outer Hebrides on our website – www.outerhebadp.com