Whether you're worried about yourself or a friend, you can find information about drug and alcohol use and smoking in the links below.

Things to remember about taking drugs:

1. you never know exactly what’s in them
2. you can't be sure how they'll affect you each time you take them
3. drugs can have long-term side effects
4. some drugs are highly addictive and can be hard to stop even if you know they’re bad for you.

Things to remember about drinking alcohol:

1. alcohol affects you more quickly if you are smaller, weigh less or if you haven't eaten
2. the mood you are in when you start drinking is often heightened by alcohol
3. you lose control of your body and your judgements
4. it can affect your memory and make it easier to forget things
5. drinking too much alcohol on a regular basis can cause cancer, heart problems, stroke, liver disease and other health problems.

Get more information and advice about drugs and alcohol

• Talk to Frank - A website for young people providing free, confidential drugs information and advice 24 hours a day. 
• Childline
• Safe

ChatHealth is a confidential school nurse messaging service for young people aged 11-19 years, living or attending school in Lambeth and Southwark. Young people can get advice and support about health related issues by messaging a school nurse Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm (automatic bounce-backs respond to incoming messages out of hours). The text number for ChatHealth is 07507 332 150.

Does your parent have a drug and alcohol issue?

If you are worried about a parent, go to the NSPCC website for help and advice or call Childline on 0800 1111.