In this episode we speak to Sonya Jones, Service Manager from the charity We Are With You. We discuss some of the most commonly used substances, their effects, and some of the steps that can be taken to reduce harm and increase education around drugs.
There is evidence that the onset of COVID-19 has led to an increase in illicit substance use amongst students, and the wider population (Neurosight, 2020)
This can be understood in terms of a number of factors-including the way students socialise, the freedom of being back at University following lockdown and easier access to substances online such as via the dark web which people perceive as being a less risky means of acquiring drugs.
Whilst evidence shows an increase in the use of cannabis, ketamine, MDMA, LSD and benzopiazepines a very clear message is that 93% of students report that they would not consult their university about drug use with over half of this group stating so due to a fear of being punished. (Neurosight, 2020)
You can find out more about We Are With You and access resources via their website or on social media:
Instagram: @wearewithyoucharity
Twitter: @WeAreWithYou
Facebook: @wearewithyoucharity
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