If you are concerned about your own, or others', drug or alcohol misuse, below are some useful links.
Offers friendly, confidential drugs advice. When someone has an alcohol or drug problem, it affects everyone around them. When a parent or family member has an alcohol or drug problem, it often leaves children and young people struggling to understand what has happened. They can be left with difficult feelings, locked up worries or anger and feel isolated or vulnerable.
Essex Young People's Drug and Alcohol Service provides free and fully accessible help. They will see young people in the community at locations chosen by them. EYPDAS works with children, young people and families up to the age of 19 (or 24 where additional needs are present) who are affected by their own, or someone else's, substance use. Their Youth Alcohol Workers work with young people aged 18-24. Referrals are accepted from individuals, families and professionals.
TIPS FOR TEENS
Even when you are confident in your decision not to use drugs or alcohol, it can be hard when it’s your friend who is offering.
A lot of times, a simple “no thanks” may be enough. But sometimes it’s not. It can get intense, especially if the people who want you to join in on a bad idea feel judged. If you’re all being “stupid” together, then they feel less self-conscious and don’t need to take all the responsibility. But knowing they are just trying to save face doesn’t end the pressure, so here are a few tips that may come in handy.