1. What are the effects of drugs?The effects of drugs are many and varied, from physical and health effects, to the pleasure people can gain from using substances.
Find out more: BBC A-Z of Drugs2. How much of a problem is drug taking in the Rhondda Valley?
There is what could be described as a drug problem, as is true of many areas across the UK. There has been a change in illegal drugs use roughly over the last ten years. However, it should be borne in mind that alcohol continues to be the most problematically used drug.
3. Which age group is mostly affected by drug taking?
The highest referral age to TEDS is 18-30 years, but it affects all ages.
4. What influence might drug-taking have on your children?
Each case of drug use has to be dealt with on its individual merits. It is too naïve to claim that drug use in parents will lead to drug use by their children.
5. What are the main factors contributing to people getting involved in drug taking?
Again, factors influencing a person's drug use are wide and varied. People may use experimentally, trying varying substances out of curiosity and/or looking for excitement. People may use recreationally, and their drug use not be any cause for concern. Such individuals have control over their use, often using at particular times. Finally, people may have problematic drug use. The reasons can vary from some kind of childhood trauma, to issues of low self-esteem, to people just finding it difficult to cope at certain times in their lives.
The above answers have been revised since the original interview took place.TEDS is a voluntary agency offering free and confidential services to users of drugs or alcohol throughout Rhondda Cynon Taf.
For further information, call TEDS on 01685 880090
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