Bristol Drugs Project: take back control

Whilst celebrating December’s festive holidays, the British population are expected to have consumed more than 600 million units of alcohol. It’s no surprise that in January we begin to set resolutions to live healthier and happier lifestyles.

Reflection
Over time, a social drink, smoke, pill, or sniff can sometimes escalate from enjoyment into a necessity, getting in the way of work, relationships, routines and ambitions. Some people might think their concerns aren’t ‘big enough’ to speak to people, but whatever the substance and whatever the problem, local charity Bristol Drugs Project (BDP) are here to help. 

Resolution
If you’re looking to cut down your alcohol or drug use, trying to quit, or have any questions or concerns, then call BDP on 0117 987 6000, or drop in to their Advice & Information Centre to access free and confidential support.

BDP, 11 Brunswick Square, BS2 8PE (only a two minute walk from Cabot Circus).
Open Monday – Friday: 9am-8pm, Saturday: 10am-5pm.

Recovery
With 30 years’ experience support people in Bristol, BDP understand that not everyone who uses drugs or alcohol has a problem, but they’re here to offer support to those that do. As the gateway into Bristol ROADS (Recovery Oriented Alcohol & Drugs Service), they are currently helping over 4,000 people get the support that’s right for them.

BDP believe that the better understanding you have of the pleasures and risks associated with substances, the more you are able to make informed decisions. Here are some tips to help you in the New Year:

Alcohol: Accidents and illnesses caused by alcohol will lead more people to A&E than any other drug this year. Know your limits. Don’t end up on your own – stick with your mates.

Cocaine: Mixing with alcohol creates Cocaethylene. This is toxic in the liver, raises blood pressure and increases chances of seizures, heart attacks and strokes.

Legal Highs: It’s impossible to know what’s in a ‘legal high’ when you buy it. Many contain banned substances and have not been tested. Some synthetic cannabinoids like Spice may have been mixed in a cement mixer – so concentration and therefore effects can vary wildly even in the same batch. Spice in particular can leave you vulnerable and has led many to A&E.

Benzos: Avoid repeated use as they are highly addictive and dangerous to stop suddenly. They can make you confused, forgetful and drowsy, leaving you vulnerable, so stick with your mates. Mixing with alcohol can cause breathing problems and overdose.

GHB: If you don’t know the strength of your GHB/GBL, be careful. There is no way, without testing, to determine its strength. Avoid frequent use as dependency occurs quickly.

Ketamine: Can be mistaken for or cut with MXE (which is about 8x stronger) causing panic, anxiety and short-term paralysis. Avoid sharing tubes or using notes – to reduce the risks of blood borne viruses.

MDMA: The average strength of Ecstasy has doubled over the past 5 to 10 years – to around 140mg: some brands have come in at more than twice this MDMA content. So if taking, start low with half a pill. Avoid re-dosing and mixing with other drugs or alcohol.