Drugs
When we talk about drugs, we mean the recreational and illegal kind, not drugs prescribed by your GP or medical team. Some prescribed drugs can be abused and therefore become recreational and potentially harmful when used in this way.
Youth at Heart believes in informed choice, harm reduction and in the clinical advice given by your medical team.
There are various categories of illegal drugs such as stimulants, depressants, tranquilizers, hallucinogens, euphoriants and inhalants. They also come with many different names on the street. Some can be incredibly addictive, life threatening or have an impact on your physical and mental health.
Our CHD Health Youth Workers can help you find the right information and support.
Legal Drugs
Prescribed drugs are legal drugs and should only be used as described in your prescription.
Both cigarettes and alcohol are legal drugs that are readily available, dependent on age, and can become addictive and harmful. Because they are legal drugs there is lots known about the side effects and impact they can have on an individual.
Links
Frank – Honest information about drugs
British Heart Foundation - Effects of smoking and drugs on your heart condition
Explore Youth at Heart
Youth at Heart are a charity committed to young people aged 13-24, and their families, who are living with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) in South West England and South Wales.
We empower, inform and support them to live their best life.
For young people
We are committed to supporting you as you start your Transition Journey aged 13 and leading up to your Transfer from Paediatrics to Adult Services and beyond, until your 25th birthday.
For the whole family
Youth at Heart recognise that congenital heart disease affects the whole family, which is why our Youth Workers are there for families too.
For professionals
Youth at Heart is a charity independent from the NHS that works in partnership with health professionals across the South Wales & South West Congenital Heart Disease Network.
Get involved
Youth at Heart rely on funds being raised through donations, grants, events and activities and for people to get involved to help us carry on our important work.