Drug use: understanding effects, reducing risks, finding help

Drug use vs. drug abuse

Drug use means that you use substances that alter your mood or perception - for example cannabis, alcohol, MDMA or ketamine. This alone is not a sign of addiction or loss of control. Many people use occasionally and are fine with it.
From Drug abuse is when your consumption is a burden, you lose control or your everyday life suffers as a result. If you are unsure, counselling can help you to assess your use and find ways to reduce the risks.

Drug effects: What substances do in the body

The effect depends on the drug, the dose, the form of consumption and your physical and mental condition.

• Stimulants (e.g. speed, cocaine) make you alert, active and euphoric.
• Depressants (e.g. alcohol, benzodiazepines) calm and relax.
• Hallucinogens (e.g. LSD, magic mushrooms) alter perception.
• Opioids (e.g. heroin, oxycodone) have a strong analgesic and sedative effect.

Every substance harbours its own risks - from overdose to mixed use to psychological stress. If you know how a drug works, you can make more informed decisions and use it more safely.

Drug use in a party context, chemsex and sexuality

Many use Party drugs or other substances to reduce inhibitions or intensify experiences - for example in clubs or during sex („chemsex“). This can be risky: through overdose, unprotected sex or addiction.
Take special care of yourself if you use drugs during sex:

• Drink enough water, eat regularly and allow yourself breaks.
• Use condoms and gloves to protect yourself from HIV and other STIs.
• Take time to recover after long sessions.
• Talk to friends about risks and safe practices.

Safer use: practical tips for minimising risk

You can reduce risks without giving up drugs completely.

• Know your substance: Find out about the effect, dosage and after-effects.
• Start low: Test small amounts and wait to see how your body reacts.
• Avoid mixed consumption: Several substances at the same time greatly increase the risk.
• Do not consume alone: If something goes wrong, someone can help.
• Use sterile utensils: Own tubes or needles prevent infections.
• Test if possible: Drug checking services help to recognise dangerous extenders.
• Take breaks: Give your body a rest - mentally too.

Safer use does not mean „carefree“, but „aware & informed“.

Addiction and drug prevention

Drug prevention does not just mean saying „no“. It means talking honestly about risks, sharing knowledge and pointing out alternatives. Offers such as Addiction prevention in schools, counselling or drug checking help to reduce risks.
If you reflect on your consumption and inform yourself, you can make more conscious decisions and live a healthier life. Counselling supports you in finding ways to deal with drugs - without pressure or judgement.

Emergency assistance in case of overdose

One Overdose is a medical emergency. Respond immediately if someone:

• becomes unconscious,
• breathing shallowly or not at all,
• gets blue lips or skin.

This is the right way to act:

1. Call 112 and stay on the phone.
2. Place the person in the recovery position.
3. Ensure clear airways.
4. Breathe mouth-to-mouth or mouth-to-nose in an emergency.
5. Tell the rescue service, which substances are involved - that saves lives.

With Opioids the emergency medication Naloxone cancel out the effect and buy time. Seek advice from a pharmacy or AIDS service organisation.

Help and advice centres

If you want to talk about your consumption or are worried about it, there are many offers:

• Drug counselling centres (anonymous & free of charge)
• self-help groups
• Addiction outpatient clinics or doctors
• AIDS service organisations & online offers

Relatives can also find support there. Nobody has to be left alone with consumption problems.

Frequently asked questions about drug use (FAQ)

Here you will find answers to typical questions about drug use, party drugs, prevention and risks - clearly, honestly and without judgement.