General Risks
 As a student you may come across both legal drugs (alcohol, haliborange, lem-sip) and illegal drugs. Although the law should prevent you from taking illegal substances, ultimately the decision lies with you - just be sure you are fully aware of the risks and the costs financial, physical and in some cases mental. Repeated abuse of a particular substance can lead to overdosing, dependency (addiction), physical and mental effects, however one contaminated dose of a drug can be fatal. Dealers can mix substances with talc, flour, washing powder, Vim or powdered milk for more of a profit margin, which can lead to poisoning and death. The sharing of equipment such as needles and filters increases the risk of the user contracting HIV and Hepatitis B. Cannabis Probably the softest and Britain's illegal drug of choice (it's even legal in certain European cities), Cannabis (or spliff, joint, draw, smoke etc) can have side-effects including paranoia, psychosis, lack of motivation and even lung and throat disorders when mixed with tobacco or contaminated. It's usually smoked or eaten (hidden in choc browies, biscuits or pizzas) and other effects include the giggles and munchies. Ecstasy & Amphetamines Ecstasy tablets have been known to cause deaths when they have been contaminated, but the main side effect of the drug is heat stroke, which includes dizzy spells, tiredness, cramp and difficulty in peeing. You should make sure you keep well hydrated and drink plenty of water - but don't overdo it either. If you do experience these symptoms you should go somewhere cool, breathe calmly and sip (not gulp) water. Amphetamines (speed, whiz, sulphate, base) are more aggressive in terms of effects even in small quantities. You may experience more confidence and higher energy levels, but the side-effects include paranoia, violent behaviour, depression, hunger, headaches and diarrhoea. Class A Drugs These are the harder and potentially more harmful drugs, not to mention more expensive. Heroin (smack) can make you feel high and help you temporarily forget your problems, but it can also cause comas, strong psychological dependency, severe constipation and death. As the 'high trips' last longer with drugs such as LSD (effects can last up to 12 hours), the side-effects are also worse with psychotic behaviour and flashbacks months later. Cocaine and crack can help overcome tiredness and pain, while also increasing confidence, but users may experience severe panic attacks later (which can prove fatal) along with insomnia, exhaustion and diarrhoea. The Law All of these drugs are illegal and we strongly recommend that you don't bother with any of them. If you are caught using, carrying or selling these substances you will probably be prosecuted, and at the very least you may receive a caution and fine. At worst you will have to pay a hefty fine and spend a very long time in prison. Depending on what you are caught with, you may be charged with 'possession' or 'intent to supply', and class A drugs also carry larger sentences. If you are caught passing two pills or wraps, for example, you may be charged with supplying, in which case your sentence will dramatically increase. There are a few legal exceptions, (obviously alcohol and smoking) magic mushrooms can be legal but only while in the raw state, once prepared they are illegal (and can be poisonous), tranquillisers are only legal if prescribed by your doctor. If you choose to use or handle any drug be aware of the dangers: arrest; being ripped off by dealers, health risks and even death. In the event of a problem seek medical attention immediately. | 
