64 In-spire LS
In-spire LS
Health
Festival
Downers
F
or many, festivals are a time to have fun, bask in the sun, hangout with our friends and listen to
our favourite bands/artists. However, it is definitely not unheard of for many people to take drugs
to `enhance' their experience. However, with there being a rapid increase in drug related deaths in
the UK and Ireland from both legal and illegal substances. It has never been more important to
know what drugs are readily available, what the side effects are and more vitally what they can do
to YOUR body.
The Dangers of taking drugs at Festivals....
Heroin
Popular Street Names: Smack, Brown and Skag
It may not seem like this drug is readily available, but it is still very accessible and is
still recognised as being one of the most dangerous drugs on the market.
Side effects: Heroin gives an initial high where the user will feel as if they are
floating. However, this is soon followed by a dry mouth and heavy arms and legs.
The drug slows down the respiratory system and can cause the heart to beat at a
lower rate increasing the risk of respiratory failure.
Ecstasy
Popular Street Names: Scooby Snacks, Happy
Pill, Smiley's and Skittles
Ecstasy is the more common name for the drug MDMA.
This drug has been a popular drug of choice since
the early 90's and continues to rise up the ranks with
party goers. Nothing can help us to forget the death of
teenager Leah Betts who died after taking ecstasy tablets
and consuming 7 litres of water in 90 minutes. Hard
hitting but necessary as ecstasy causes dehydration and
paired with hot environments can increase the risk of
consumers of this drug drinking too much water. Ecstasy
is said to make those who take it feel more confident in
social settings. However, that is quite quickly followed by
depression and anxiety.
By Sasha Shantel @sashashantelvip