Self help options

Staying as safe as you can

Regardless of what you use, you can always try to be as safe as possible!

Whether you are trying a drug for the first time, been using ‘full-on’ for years, whether you smoke, swallow, inject or sniff, or you drink alcohol, or use heroin or the newest designer drug, there is one thing that should be common to everyone. You can always try to be as safe as you can when using.

There are general tips for staying safe and tips specific to different drugs.

Sometimes putting every bit of harm reduction advice into practice can be hard. For instance, getting a taxi home after drinking might be safer than walking home but if you have no money, this is hard. None-the-less the more aware you are of how to stay safe the more you can have some choice over your health.

Our Top Tips for Staying Safe article has some great tips for staying safe no matter what you are using, or check out some our drug facts for young people, for tips and resources tailored to your drugs of choice.

It takes courage to change. Remember you are not alone & other young people have been in your shoes.

Get help now

YoDAA is a free and confidential online and phone service that offers supports to young people, families and professionals. You can contact 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday.

Related Articles

Not sure what I want to do
Single Session Family Consultation [SSFC]

YoDAA can provide a neutral, confidential space led by professionals who understand the challenges families face. Their role is to support healthier communication—not to judge or take sides. Sometimes one good conversation is…

Duty of Care

If we become concerned about your safety (or anyone else’s) during a chat or phone session or because of the contents of an email, we will always do our best to…

Not sure what I want to do
Top tips for staying safe

Staying safe is the most important thing. That starts with knowing what you are taking! Ask and research everything you can about a drug. Do your research. Where possible, know what…