Substance Abuse and Addiction 

What is Substance Abuse?
Substance abuse refers to the harmful or hazardous use of substances such as alcohol, tobacco, and drugs (both legal and illegal). It occurs when a person uses these substances in a way that negatively affects their physical health, mental well-being, relationships, or daily life. For young people, substance abuse can interfere with brain development, education, and overall well-being.

Common substances that may be misused by young people include:

• Alcohol
  
  

• Tobacco (including vaping)
  
  

• Cannabis
  
  

• Prescription medications (such as painkillers or ADHD medication)
  
  

• Illegal drugs (such as ecstasy, cocaine, or nitrous oxide)
  
  

• Inhalants (such as glue or aerosol sprays)
  
  

Why Do Young People Experiment with Substances?
There are many reasons why students might try substances, including:

• Peer pressure and a desire to fit in
  
  

• Stress, anxiety, or other mental health struggles
  
  

• Curiosity and risk-taking behaviour
  
  

• Exposure to substance use at home or in the media
  
  

• Seeking a way to escape problems or cope with emotions
  
  

The Risks of Substance Abuse
Substance misuse can have serious short- and long-term effects on young people, including:

• Poor academic performance and attendance
  
  

• Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and addiction
  
  

• Physical health problems (e.g., lung damage from vaping, liver issues from alcohol)
  
  

• Increased risk of accidents and injuries
  
  

• Legal consequences for possessing or using illegal substances
  
  

Support for Students Aged 11-18

There are various sources of help and support for young people struggling with substance use or worried about someone else:

1. School Support Services
   
   

   • Wellbeing care teams and school counsellors can offer guidance and confidential support.
     
     

2. Helplines and Online Support
   
   

   • FRANK (Talk to FRANK) – A UK government-supported service providing confidential drug advice (Call: 0300 123 6600, Text: 82111, Website: www.talktofrank.com)
     
     

   • Childline – Support for young people on various issues, including substance abuse (Call: 0800 1111, Website: www.childline.org.uk)
     
     

   • YoungMinds – Mental health support for young people, including guidance on substance misuse (Website: www.youngminds.org.uk)
     
     

3. Local Drug and Alcohol Services
   
   

   • Many local authorities offer youth-focused drug and alcohol services where students can speak to professionals for advice and support.
     
     

   • GP surgeries can also provide referrals to appropriate services.
     
     

4. Youth Support Groups
   
   

   • Organisations like The Mix (www.themix.org.uk) offer free, confidential support and advice for under-25s.
     
     
     

5. Parental and Family Support
   
   

   • Encouraging open and honest conversations at home can help you feel supported.