Bristol’s ‘White Christmas’

The holidays are coming and while it’s hard to predict the weather at Christmas, this year it’s easy to forecast that many people across Bristol will be looking to have their own white Christmas as they ‘share a coke’ with friends.

With this year’s Global Drugs Survey reporting an increase in cocaine use over the last three years, it’s evident that Bristol is no different from other UK cities and has its fair share of the white stuff.

“Cocaine is the second most frequently mentioned drug in Bristol that my team are working with” says Stacey, a local drugs worker. “People we’re talking with in clubs and raves are saying that coke has become the new pre-drink.”

Over the past few years, local charity Bristol Drugs Project (BDP) have seen a rapid rise in people coming to them for support around their cocaine use. “We’re seeing more people wanting to get more control over their cocaine use than ever before”, reports Stacey. “Between 2014 and 2015 we saw the number of people seeking our support double. And 2016 is set to be even higher.” 

Whilst many people use cocaine on a planned night out, it is a highly psychologically addictive drug and can push some people’s weekend use into mid-week and sometimes daily use.

Cocaine produces its psychoactive and addictive effects by affecting our limbic system, the part of our brain which deals with tasks such as our emotions and behavior. It’s short-term effect gives “rise to euphoria and a desire to take the drug again.”

But as the Global Drug Survey tell us; we quickly build up tolerance to its effects. “After more than a day or two you’ve probably emptied your brain of most of the neurotransmitters you need to get a good high. Continuing to use just leads to less of a buzz and more unwanted effects.”

If you’re planning on taking cocaine this festive season, BDP have put together a few suggestions to help you reduce the harm it could cause you: 

– Safe Source? White powders are unpredictable and can be cut with any number of different chemicals. You can never be 100% safe. Reduce risk by sticking to a source you trust. 

– Dirty Money. Avoid bank notes, even the new £5. Use your own tube or straw. As well as swapping unwelcome nasal discharge, sharing also means you could be passing around blood borne viruses – such as hepatitis C.

– Get Nosey. Take it in turns using your left and right nostrils to lessen the damage on one side.

– Finer Goes Further. Chopping your powder finely can help you better control your dose, which also helps your drugs last longer. It also reduces damage to your nose.

– Trust Your Mates. If you’re going out with friends, let them know what you’ve had and ask what they’re taking. If there is a problem, don’t delay getting help. Plan how you’ll get back and where you’ll stay. Never let friends go off alone.

– Avoid Alcohol. Mixing with alcohol can lead to increased drink and drug use, making the night more expensive. It also creates Cocaethylene, which is toxic in the liver, raises blood pressure and increases the chances of seizures, heart attacks and strokes.

Want to talk about your own or someone you care about’s use?

If you feel your own (or someone you care about’s) cocaine use is getting out of hand and you’re thinking about controlling or quitting, contact BDP for free, non-judgemental and confidential support. Call 0117 987 6000, email pod@bdp.org.uk or text/whatsapp 0790 860 7754. You can also pop in for a chat at BDP 11 Brunswick Square, Bristol, BS2 8PE. Mon-Fri: 9am-8pm, Sat: 10am-5pm.

For personalised drug advice, visit www.drugsmeter.com.