Substance Abuse

The difference between substance abuse and addiction is very slight. Substance abuse means using an illegal substance or using a legal substance in the wrong way.

You can abuse a drug (or alcohol) without having an addiction. People can get addicted to all sorts of substances. When we think of addiction, we usually think of alcohol or illegal drugs. But people become addicted to medications, cigarettes, even glue! Some substances are more addictive than others. Drugs such as cocaine or heroine can be so addictive they only need to be used once or twice before the user looses control.

Addiction means a person has no control over whether he or she uses a drug or drinks. Someone who is addicted to cocaine has grown so used to the drug that they have to have it. Addiction can be physical, psychological, or both.

Many people think that they can kick the problem on their own, but that rarely works. Find someone you trust to talk to. If you can’t talk to your parents, you may want to approach a relative, doctor, tutor, our Designated Safeguarding Officer or councillor.

Below you’ll find useful contacts that may help you should you be affected by any of this information or wish to seek advice however you can also talk to our Designated Safeguarding Officer Carina Bush on 0117 422 4000 or email Safeguarding@professionalapprenticeships.co.uk.

National Drug Helpline: (talk to frank) 0800 776 600 | talktofrank.com
Alcohol Abuse: (Drink line) 0800 917 8282 | drinkaware.gov.uk