How to reduce drug related risks this Christmas

At Ana Liffey Drug Project, sadly, we have known too many people to die from an overdose over the festive season.

Here’s Ana Liffey’s twelve tips to reduce drug related harm this Christmas…

It is always safer not to take drugs at all, but if you are going to, follow the tips below:

1. When obtaining drugs, try to stick with a source that you trust. Don’t take or buy drugs from complete strangers who do not care about your welfare.
2. Avoid using drugs alone. Talk to your friends about what you think you are taking so that they can help you if there’s an emergency.
3. Start with a small test dose,to see how your body reacts.
4. Allow time for the drug to take effect, be patient, do not quickly snort, swallow or inject more drugs if you don’t’ feel an immediate effect.
5. Use one drug at a time, never mix drugs.
6. Remember alcohol is a drug, avoid mixing alcohol with other drugs.
7. Never share drug taking equipment like tooters, spoons, pipes, needles, etc.
8. Leave at least two hours between drug taking episodes.
9. Carry a condom
10. Remember when initiating or having any sexual contact no means no, and no response means no too. Establish clear consent.
11. Start a conversation with family and friends about how to reduce drug, including alcohol, related harms among your loved ones this Christmas.
12. Click here to educate yourself and others about drug related risks.

Please donate €4 to support the work of Ana Liffey Drug Project by texting safer to 50300.