Woodmill High School

Substance Misuse

Substance Misuse

Substance misuse among teenagers in Scotland is an increasing concern, as it can impact health, education, relationships, and future opportunities. Understanding the types of substances, reasons for use, risks, and available support can help prevent and address the issue effectively.

Common substances misused by teenagers

Teenagers may experiment with different substances, including:

Legal Substances (Age-Restricted but Often Misused)

  • Alcohol – Most commonly misused substance among Scottish teens.
  • Nicotine & Vapes – Growing concerns about e-cigarettes and underage vaping.
  • Over-the-Counter Medications – Misuse of painkillers, cough medicine, or energy drinks.

Illegal Substances

  • Class A Drugs: Cocaine, ecstasy (MDMA), heroin, LSD.
  • Class B Drugs: Cannabis, speed (amphetamine), synthetic cannabinoids (spice).
  • Class C Drugs: Prescription drugs (e.g., Xanax, Valium) taken without a prescription.

Emerging Concerns

 

Nitrous Oxide ("Laughing Gas") – Used recreationally but poses serious health risks.


New Psychoactive Substances ("Legal Highs") – Synthetic drugs with unpredictable effects.  Specifically THC vapes at present. In Scotland, as well as the wider UK, THC vapes are typically referred to by various street names or slang terms. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the active ingredient in cannabis, and vaping it has become more common in recent years, especially among young people. These vapes are often sold illegally and come in different forms, including cartridges or disposable devices.

Here are some common street names and terms for THC vapes or products related to them:

THC Vapes or Cartridges

  • THC Pods
  • Pen J’s or Penjamin
  • THC Vape Pens
  • Cannabis Vapes
  • CBD/THC Oil Pens (though some pens may contain a mix of both CBD and THC)
  • THC E-liquids or THC Vape Juice

Street Names (General Cannabis Slang for THC Products)

  • Weed Pens
  • Canna Pens
  • Pens
  • Joints (though more often referring to rolled cannabis, some may refer to vape pens this way informally)
  • Shatter – Referring to cannabis concentrate, often used in vapes.
  • Wax – Another type of cannabis concentrate that may be vaporized.

Other Slang or Terms

  • Dank Vape or Dank Pens (dank is a term for potent cannabis products)
  • Cart (Carti) – Short for vape cartridge, often used when referring to disposable THC vapes or pre-filled cartridges.

Important Notes:

  • Legality: THC is illegal for recreational use in Scotland, and using or possessing THC vapes is against the law unless prescribed for medicinal use by a doctor.
  • Disguised as Nicotine Vapes: THC vapes can sometimes be disguised as nicotine vape products (like regular e-cigarettes), making it harder to spot them. This can be an issue in schools or among young people.

Why do teenagers misuse substances?

Teenagers may use substances for various reasons, including:

  • Peer Pressure – Wanting to fit in or be accepted by friends.
  • Curiosity & Experimentation – Trying substances to see what they feel like.
  • Stress & Mental Health Issues – Using substances to cope with anxiety, depression, or trauma.
  • Family & Environmental Factors – Growing up around substance misuse or facing family issues.
  • Accessibility – Alcohol, vapes, and some drugs are easy to obtain from friends or dealers.
  • Media & Social Influence – Exposure to drug and alcohol use in music, films, or social media.

Risks & consequences of substance misuse

Substance misuse can have short-term and long-term effects on young people’s health, education, and future.

Short-Term Risks:

  • Impaired judgment leading to accidents, injuries, or risky behaviours.
  • Increased risk of violence, fights, or legal trouble
  • Health effects like vomiting, unconsciousness, or overdose.
  • Poor concentration affecting school performance.

Long-Term Consequences:

  • Mental Health Issues – Increased risk of depression, anxiety, and psychosis.
  • Addiction & Dependency – Struggling to stop using substances.
  • Legal Problems – Criminal records affecting jobs, travel, or future opportunities.
  • Health Risks – Damage to the brain, liver, lungs, or heart.

Legal Consequences in Scotland:

  • Underage Drinking: It is illegal for under-18s to buy alcohol, and under-16s cannot drink in public places.
  • Drug Possession: Even small amounts of illegal drugs can lead to a criminal record.
  • Supply or Dealing: Giving or selling drugs (even to friends) is a serious offence with severe penalties.

Signs of substance misuse in teenagers

Parents, teachers, and friends should look out for signs such as:

  • Physical Signs: Bloodshot eyes, sudden weight loss, lack of energy.
  • Behavioral Changes: Mood swings, withdrawal from family, new friend groups.
  • Academic Issues: Drop in grades, skipping school, lack of motivation.
  • Secrecy & Lying: Hiding activities, avoiding conversations, stealing money.
  • Health Problems: Frequent sickness, slurred speech, trouble concentrating.

Preventing & addressing substance misuse

 

For Parents & Guardians:

  • Keep open, non-judgmental conversations about drugs and alcohol.
  • Set clear rules and expectations about substance use.
  • Be a role model by promoting healthy habits.
  • Educate about the real dangers of substance misuse.
  • Monitor changes in behaviour and seek help if needed.

For Schools & Teachers:

  • Deliver drug education through Personal & Social Education (PSE) lessons.
  • Offer counselling and pastoral support for students at risk.
  • Work with police and health professionals to raise awareness.
  • Enforce strict policies on drug and alcohol use on school grounds.

For Teenagers Themselves:

  • Say No – Learn ways to resist peer pressure.
  • Know the Risks – Understand how substances affect health and future goals.
  • Find Support – Talk to a trusted adult if struggling with substance use.
  • Make Healthy Choices – Engage in sports, hobbies, and positive activities.

Where to get help & support in Scotland

 

Health & Support Services

  • NHS Scotland – Free advice and treatment for substance misuse ( www.nhsinform.scot)
  • Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol & Drugs (SFAD) – Support for families
    www.sfad.org.uk | 08080 10 10 11
  • We Are With You – Confidential help for young people struggling with substance use www.wearewithyou.org.uk

Helplines & Confidential Advice

Substance misuse in Scottish high schools is a serious issue, but education, open conversations, and access to support can help teenagers make safer choices.

Further Resources:

Alcohol and Young People Toolkit - Alcohol and Young People Toolkit.pdf

Drugs - Drugs Shatter the Myth.pdf

Parental Substance Misuse - Living with an Elephant - Parental Substance Misuse.pdf

Parent Guide for Alcohol - ParentGuide for alcohol.pdf

Parent Guide (Talking to kids about alcohol ) - Talking to Kids about Alcohol.pdf

You and Substance Use - You and Substance Use.pdf

Solvent Abuse - Young People | Solvent Abuse

Effects of Substance Abuse - EffectsofSubstanceAbuse.pdf

Substance Misuse (Hidden Harm) - Hidden Harm.pdf

Impact of Parental Substance Misuse - The impact of parental substance misuse on child development.pdf

Barnardos Parent Substance Misuse - Children affected by parental substance misuse service.pdf

Youtube Videos:

Battling with Drug Addiction - BBC Teach

Sams Story - Drink and Drugs

How Addiction Happens - Information

Helping a Teen Whos Using Drugs - Josh Shipp