For many people, having the freedom to experiment with drugs and/or alcohol is part of university life. But it’s really important that you can make informed choices about alcohol and drug use, understand the risks and know how to get help if drug or alcohol misuse becomes a problem.
You might also have questions about how to support a friend who's using drugs and/or alcohol.
If you’re worried about your friend’s drug and/or alcohol use, you might find it helpful to sensitively let them know your concerns. Conversations like this can be difficult, Young Minds have some guidance on having a supportive conversation.
If you're seriously concerned about a friend’s wellbeing or safety then it’s important that you tell someone. Read I have a serious concern and want help for myself or a peer for information about who to contact and what happens next.
It’s important to remember that you are not responsible for your friend’s difficulties and expert help is available. The most effective thing you can do is signpost your friend to one or more of the specialist support services listed on this page and be sure to look after yourself as well.
This article outlines some of the substances you might encounter, explains what is legal and illegal in the UK and tells you where you can get information, help and support for your alcohol or drug use.
Alcohol
In the UK the legal age for purchasing alcohol is 18. When buying alcohol, you will need a valid form of identification to prove your age, such as a driving license or passport. Many London bars and retailers operate a 'challenge 25' policy. So, if you appear to be under the age of 25 to the person serving you, you can expect to be asked for ID.
Drinking alcohol is an accepted part of social life for many people in the UK, although more and more people are choosing not to consume alcohol, or significantly reduce their intake for health or personal reasons.
If you do choose to drink alcohol there are short and long-term health risks associated with this. If you want to check how much alcohol you are consuming, there are a number of helpful self-assessment tools you can use. The Drinkaware tool helps you understand the health risks associated with the amount of alcohol you currently consume - give it a go!
Coping with university drinking culture
The drinking culture at university is often seen as just another part of the social side of student life. But for many new students, the emphasis on drinking can be one of the biggest concerns about going to university in the first place, and understandably so. However, it’s an interesting fact that an increasing number of students choose to abstain from alcohol, with a 2018 National Union of Students survey finding that 1 in 5 students are teetotal (don’t drink alcohol at all).
Although it can feel like there is enormous pressure to take part in the drinking culture at university, there are lots of opportunities to get involved in activities that don’t centre around alcohol or are completely alcohol free.
KCLSU run events and activities that are alcohol-free. You can join a club or society that focuses on one of your hobbies or interests and you can encourage your friends to take part in social activities that don’t involve drinking.
You can make friends and get support at the King’s and KCLSU Take Time Out Wellbeing Hubs.
Find out about alcohol free nights out by searching for 'sober raves'.
If you are heading out for the night and you plan to drink, there are a couple of simple things that you can do to stay in control and ensure that you have a great time.
- Have a meal before you go out and grab some snacks between drinks. This can help slow down the absorption of alcohol, helping you stay in control
- Have a glass of water between drinks to stay hydrated and slow down your alcohol consumption over the course of the night – or even better, alternate alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
- If you are going to a friend’s for pre-drinks, try and avoid drinking too much too quickly as this can really have an impact later on in the evening
- Know how to support someone who has drunk too much alcohol.
- If you're drinking on campus, have the SafeZone app on your phone, ready to contact campus security if you need to
- If you're seriously concerned about your own safety, or that of someone else, call the emergency services by dialing 999.
Recreational drugs
Recreational drugs and psychoactive substances are chemicals that are used to alter a person’s state of mind. There are many reasons why people take drugs; for fun is one reason but some people take recreational drugs to help them cope with difficulties like anxiety or depression. It’s helpful to understand the risks associated with taking drugs so that you can make informed decisions about their use.
Know the law
It's illegal to consume, produce, supply or possess most recreational drugs and psychoactive substances in the UK. If you're from another country, the laws around drugs in the UK may be different to what you're used to at home. If you're travelling between countries, you should also know the laws around each country you visit.
The penalties if you are caught can be significant and may have an impact on your life in the future. Check out Talk to Frank for detailed information about recreational drugs and the penalties associated with possession and consumption.
The quality and composition of recreational drugs is completely unknown and there is a real risk that you could take something that is contaminated or has been missold to you as something else. Like alcohol, there are short and long-term health risks associated with taking drugs.
If you or a friend experience a bad reaction after taking an illegal substance it is essential to seek medical advice immediately. Dial 111 for medical advice if you are concerned or if it is an emergency dial 999 for emergency health services.
Study drugs at university
‘Study drugs’ or ‘Smart drugs’ are terms used to describe prescription drugs that are misused by people because of the perception that they aid concentration and enhance performance. When prescribed, these drugs are used to treat conditions like ADHD or narcolepsy.
Like other drugs, they have varying side effects which can include skin reactions, insomnia, psychiatric disorders and reducing the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives.
The use or ‘study’ or ‘smart’ drugs can seem tempting, however there is no evidence that these substances enhance performance. It’s important to know that the sale and use of these drugs without a prescription is illegal in the UK.
If you feel that you have ADHD or narcolepsy that could benefit from prescribed medication, you should speak with your doctor or, for support, the Disability Support & Inclusion team.
Getting help with your drug and alcohol use
If you’re worried about your alcohol or drug use, help is available. You can receive support and treatment for alcohol and drug addiction through the NHS. Find a local service near you:
Your doctor is a good place to start if you’re looking for support and they can help refer you to specialist services. Check how to register with the King’s College Health Centre.
If you’re not ready to speak to a medical professional or specialist service, you can consider the following support services:
Here are some indicators that you might have a problem with a substance:
- Using alcohol or drugs to escape problems
- A high tolerance level; this means that you gradually seem to be able to drink more and have fewer side effects
- Blackouts – sometimes not remembering what happened while intoxicated
- Problems at college or at work as a result of drinking or drug use
- Concern shown by family and friends about drinking or drug use
- Noticing a change in friendship group to those who also use
- Finding a reason to use drugs/alcohol independent of feelings (e.g drinking to celebrate, drinking to drown sorrows)
Alcohol and drugs affect us not just physically but also psychologically:
- Increases self-harming behaviours
- They can cause depression or trigger anxiety
- Drug use may lead to psychosis (loss of reality)
- Lowers our inhibitions, leading to greater risk of violence and unwanted sexual encounters
- Numerous long-term health risks.
Where can I get more information and support?
If you would like to speak to a Counsellor about alcohol or drug use, please contact us or make an appointment to see your GP.
These are some external organisations who specialise in supporting with difficulties with drugs or alcohol:
