Christmas can be one of the toughest times of the year, and if you have a problem with substances it can be even tougher. Whether it’s putting on a front to make the family believe everything is okay or being confronted with more drugs at parties or on nights out. We want to give you some practical advice to ensure you stay safe over the festive season and ensure a MERRY CHRISTMAS.
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If you do take substances, be aware of what you take…
Make sure whatever drug you take, you know exactly what it is. If you don’t know for sure, take a small dose first before you take the full amount so you know there is no unexpected reaction. Don’t assume you have a tolerance as different batches of drugs have different strengths.
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Don’t mix different drugs and alcohol…
Taking multiple substances increases the chances of bad reactions, drinking at the same time makes you even more vulnerable. If you need to take substances make sure you stick to that and don’t create additional risk.
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Tell someone what you’ve taken…
Another way to alleviate risk is to tell someone exactly what you’ve taken. If you have a bad reaction and an ambulance arrives, the quicker the emergency services have this information it could save a life.
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Buy from a trusted source…
Don’t accept anything from someone you don’t know, it increases the risk of not knowing what you’re taking and you could be being intentionally spiked.
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Keep yourself busy…
it sounds simple but a good way to keep cravings at bay can be to keep yourself occupied. Whether it’s spending time with friends or family, exercising or just getting outdoors.
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Think about the consequences…
Anyone who uses drugs is aware of the inevitable feeling of the “come down” once the drugs wear off – if you feel tempted just remember how bad that feels and use that as motivation to steer clear of substances.
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Focus on why you could, or chose to stop…
Whatever it is, there will be a reason you chose to stop, or even thought about stopping taking substances. Whether it’s for you to feel better or for your family or friends, just hang on to that reason and use that as a goal, as well as save a substantial amount of money.
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If you begin to feel unwell, seek help immediately…
if you have taken a substance and feel unwell or are having a reaction you did not expect, contact the emergency services right away. The sooner you get checked the better. It could save your life.
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Open up…
be honest with yourself about how drugs are affecting your life and open up to those closest to you about the fact that you may have a problem. Talk to your friends and family, they may be able to support you and help you through the holiday season. Know you are not alone…
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Call us…
If you feel like your drug use is getting on top of you and is a problem, we’re here to help. we offer tailored support programmes and treatments to meet your individual needs and circumstances at times to suit you.
03333 448 288
Most importantly, Enjoy your Christmas and know you are not alone whatever you’re going though.
The Team
RECOVERY4LIFE
