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NEXSTEPS | INDEPENDENT LIVING SKILLS

ALCOHOL, DRUGS & SUBSTANCE MISUSE

KNOW THE FACTS. UNDERSTAND THE RISKS. MAKE INFORMED CHOICES.

Understanding alcohol and drugs is an important part of staying safe and making informed decisions. This learning programme helps you explore the facts, recognise risks, understand influences and know where to get support.

UNDERSTANDING ALCOHOL & DRUGS

ALCOHOL — THE FACTS

Explore how alcohol affects the body, behaviour, judgement and personal safety.

DRUGS — KNOW THE RISKS

Understand different substances, uncertain contents, health risks and the dangers of mixing substances.

WHY DO PEOPLE USE?

Explore curiosity, stress, social situations, peer pressure and other reasons people may use substances.

RISKS & WARNING SIGNS

Alcohol and drug use can affect physical health, mental wellbeing, relationships, money, education and personal safety. Understanding these risks is crucial for staying safe.

Physical health

Physical health

Mental wellbeing

Mental wellbeing

Relationships

Relationships

Money & Responsibilities

Money & Responsibilities

Dependence & Addiction

Dependence & Addiction

Warning Signs

Recognising warning signs

YOUR CHOICES MATTER.

Learning how to recognise peer pressure, set your own boundaries, and make informed choices is essential for staying safe and feeling in control of your future.

PEER PRESSURE

Building the confidence to say no, set boundaries, and make your own decisions based on what is right for you.

TRIGGERS & COPING

Recognising the situations and feelings that influence your choices and finding healthier, safer ways to cope with stress.

HELPING A FRIEND

Recognising when someone you care about needs support and knowing exactly what to do and where to turn in an emergency.

LEARN IT. TRY IT. PUT IT INTO PRACTICE.

The Nexsteps Alcohol, Drugs & Substance Use Workbook helps you explore real-life situations, understand risks, build confidence and develop your own safety and support plan.

  • Easy-to-understand information
  • Real-life scenarios
  • Personal reflection activities
  • Peer pressure and decision-making exercises
  • Coping strategies and support planning
  • Goals, progress and review activities

GETTING HELP & SUPPORT

YOU DON'T HAVE TO WORK IT OUT ALONE.

Asking for help is a positive step. There are many people ready to listen and support you, including a trusted adult, support worker, GP, local young people's substance use service, and FRANK.

If someone is unconscious, having difficulty breathing, having a seizure or otherwise seriously unwell after alcohol or drugs, call 999.

YOUR FUTURE. YOUR CHOICES. YOUR NEXT STEP.

Understanding the risks is not about judging people. It's about having the knowledge, confidence and support to make safer decisions.

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