How drugs affect you
Drugs can affect your body, your mind, and your life in many different ways. For some, drugs can feel like they help in the moment, but they can also cause harm - sometimes straight away, sometimes over time.
How drugs affect your body
Drugs can change the way your body works. Some speed you up, some slow you down, and some change the way you see or feel things. Over time, drugs can harm your organs, lower your immune system, and affect your sleep and energy.
Featured resources
How drugs affect your body
Drugs can affect your body in different ways. In this article, we'll look at the short and long-term effects of drugs on your body.
Can you get addicted to cannabis?
Roughly 10% of people who use it can become physically addicted to it. In this article, we'll look at what cannabis addiction and dependence means, how to spot the signs, and what you can do if you're worried about your use.
Safer injecting advice
Injecting drugs comes with serious risks, and the safest option is to avoid injecting altogether. But if you are injecting, there are ways to reduce harm and look after your health - this guide will help you stay as safe as possible.
Making changes to your drugs use
Take a look at our tips for cutting down or quitting drugs
How drugs affect your mental health
Drugs can have a big impact on how you feel and think. Some might make you feel happy or calm at first, but those effects don't last. When they wear off, you might feel low, anxious, or on edge.
Using drugs can make these feelings stronger over time. It can also make it harder to cope with stress, sleep well, or feel in control of your emotions.
Our services
Drop-in
Our adult drop-in service is open to anyone aged 18 or over in Stoke-on-Trent. No referral or appointment is needed.
Support groups
Our groups and workshops are safe, friendly spaces to share, learn, and build confidence together.
Needle and syringe service
Our needle exchange service gives you free, clean needles and other equipment to help you stay safer if you inject drugs. This service is free, confidential, and open to anyone who needs it.
Naloxone
Our naloxone service provides free naloxone kits and training so you can help save a life in an emergency.
Blood-borne virus screening
We offer free and confidential blood borne virus (BBV) screening, testing for HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
Your choice, your journey
We’re here for anyone in Stoke-on-Trent affected by drugs or alcohol. We don’t tell you what to do or force you into one path. Some people want to cut down, others choose to stop completely - both are valid. What matters is that the decision is yours. We’re here to give advice, tools, and support so you can make the changes that feel right for you.
If you’d like to talk through your options, contact us or come along to one of our drop-ins if you’re over 18. You don’t need a referral or an appointment - just yourself and your choice to explore what’s next.
