Did you know that:
- It is an offence to be unfit to drive through alcohol, even if you are below the legal limit. You face the same penalties as you do for being over the legal limit. You could go to prison.
- It is also an offence to drive if you are under the influence of over the counter or prescription medicines. If your medicine carries a warning that it may cause drowsiness, your ability to drive may be affected, and you could face tough penalties.
- A cup of strong coffee does not sober you up. Caffeine is a stimulant, therefore you may feel more alert. It does not alter the effects of the alcohol in your system and doesn’t change the amount.
- Mixing alcohol and cocaine creates Cocaethylene in the body. It can cause an added strain on the cardiovascular system, loss of reasoning and violence, and can remain in the body for a number of days.
- Mephedrone is a powerful stimulant and can cause heart damage and also fits.
- Ketamine has been found to seriously affect the function of the bladder. In some cases people have had to have their bladder removed.
- Many synthetic cannabinoids (chemicals which mimic the effects of THC,found in cannabis) are NOT a legal alternative to cannabis. They are illegal (Class B) to possess, give away or sell.
- Drugs, including alcohol are responsible for a high proportion of workplace absenteeism and cost companies money and sometimes their reputation.
- Up to 1/4 of people who are seeking help for substance misuse problems are in employment. (How many who are yet to seek help, are in employment….?)
- Most people who are getting help will at first lapse back in the cycle of change, to another stage. It can take time and they require support and understanding. Anyone who has overcome drug or alcohol dependency has not done so easily. It takes courage, determination, effort and commitment.
If you are interested in finding out more about substances, please take a look at our training events page for a list of forthcoming courses, including a Basic Drug Awareness course and a Drugs in the Workplace Course.
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