ABSTRACT
In 2017 the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported 3,756 deaths from drug poisoning in England and Wales – two thirds of which was related to drug misuse. Whilst male deaths had reduced, drug deaths in women had increased for the 8th year running. In reality, it is difficult to prove a death is drug-related and gather specific data so most believe the true figure is much, much higher. In 2018 the ONS conducted a ‘deep dive’ into coroners’ reports concerning drug-related deaths. They found; ‘…a vulnerable, at-risk population engaging in unsafe drug-taking practices such as taking drugs alone and consuming multiple different types of drug alongside alcohol’.
This chapter explores further:
The complex inter-relationship between life experience, trauma, deprivation, mental health issues and substance use.
The concept and practicalities of harm reduction.
Common drugs, their effects and management strategies.
Problem drinking and strategies to address it.
Risks for vulnerable populations including blood-borne viruses and strategies for whole person care.
