Alcohol
Other names include:
“Drink” “Beer” “Vodka” “Swal”
About the drug:
Alcohol is still a popular drug amongst young people. It may be the only substance they take or they may drink alcohol alongside taking other drugs.
Many young people prefer Alcopops for their sweet taste and Vodka as it can be low cost.
Shots are also very popular.
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Vodka – 1ltr - £17
Alcopops – WKD 70cl 2x£6
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After a few drinks:
alcohol makes people more sociable and talkative,
reduces inhibitions and
effects decision making (doing things you wouldn’t do when sober)
Drinking a lot of alcohol will make you intoxicated (drunk): slurred speech; lack of co-ordination and blurred vision unable to stand or walk properly.
How quickly you feel the effects and how long they last, depend on…. how much taken & how quickly, body size, if a person has eaten and if any other drugs have been taken.
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Some of the dangers include:
Becoming aggressive, getting into fights
Accidents or injuries
Loss of personal items, handbag, phone wallet etc
Unprotected sex
They may not remember what happened while drinking (blackout), may wake up with regrets from the night before’s behaviour.
Alcohol is a depressant drug, drinking outside in the cold increases the risk of hyperthermia.
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Planning a night out well in advance – asking for money days/week in advance
Taking alcohol from the home or hiding drink
Smell of alcohol on their breath – obviously trying to hide the smell
Signs of a hangover – sore head, unable to eat food, vomiting, lack of energy