Drugs advice for parents

Friday 28 March 2014

Parents are being given advice on how to talk to their children about the dangers and side effects of the drugs that used to be called "legal highs".

The Health department have re-issued a printed and online version of “A Parent’s Guide to Drugs” because of the growing number of young people taking the drugs that used to be known as "legal highs", but which health authorities are banning because of the damage that they can do.

Head of Health Improvement Martin Knight said: “We continue to be concerned about emerging trends in the use of new psychoactive substances amongst young people and really want all parents to know about the serious harms and side effects that can be experienced from these drugs.

“If mixed with alcohol the side effects of these substances can be particularly pronounced, including extremely negative changes in mood and behaviour."

The guide will be available through the Island’s secondary schools and Highlands College.

Mr Knight said: “The guide is designed to support parents and guardians by giving them information about drugs and their effects, as well as offering age-appropriate suggestions and approaches to having discussions on the issue of drugs with children, which we realise can be a difficult and sensitive area.”