Help in an emergency when someone has taken alcohol
Alcohol is a drug and has strong effects. If you notice someone who has drunk alcohol and is behaving in a way that makes you anxious about their safety, the safety of those around them, or who has become very ill from drinking alcohol, take the following steps:
- tell them you're concerned about their safety
- telephone 999 and ask for an ambulance or help from the police
- make sure the person's airways aren't blocked, for example by vomit, and check they haven't swallowed their tongue
- don't let them fall asleep without someone watching them
- don't let them leave or walk alone
- don't let them drive - take their car keys if possible
- get help from the police or paramedics as quickly as you can
- Know your limits - Public Health Agency website
Help in an emergency when someone has taken drugs
Look out for danger signs if you or other people have taken drugs, including:
- overheating
- dizziness
- sickness
- sudden tiredness
- headaches
- cramps and aching arms and legs
People on drugs showing these symptoms or looking distressed could have had an allergic reaction to the drug they have taken, or may have overdosed. It's important to take the following steps immediately:
- get help and be honest about all drugs they've taken
- telephone 999 and ask for an ambulance
- clearly and calmly say where the patient is, what drugs they've taken and what their symptoms are
- if instructed to give mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, put the patient into the recovery position or do something else to save the person's life
- make sure the person's airways aren't blocked, for example by vomit, and check they haven't swallowed their tongue
- collect evidence of any drugs they may have taken, doctors need this important information to give the best treatment
- collect containers that drugs were kept in, including wrappers, packets, cling film, tin foil and syringes and get a small sample of the vomit if the person was sick
- stay until the ambulance arrives
- Drugs and your child
Getting help in your area
There are local dedicated drug and alcohol support services, providing help to people with drugs and alcohol problems.
If you have a problem with alcohol or drugs and want information about support services near you, go to:
Self referral
If you need help because you're misusing alcohol or other substances, you can refer yourself to get help and support. Check support and advice services in your area which accept self referrals.
Support for family members
There is support and advice for people affected by a family member's substance misuse even if that person isn't receiving treatment.
Mental health services relating to drug or alcohol problems
There are different mental health services available across Northern Ireland to deal specifically with drugs and alcohol-related problems.
For information about statutory, voluntary and community mental health organisations, use the Mental Health Services Finder.
More useful links