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VSA is
when solvents and volatile substances are inhaled through
the nose or mouth with the sole purpose of getting high. There
is a misconception that solvent abuse or 'sniffing' was a
drug problem that had fazed out by the end of the 1980s. However,
on average, there is still one death a week from VSA. It kills
more young people than illegal drugs and is becoming more
common in the adult population as a reliable method of suicide.
Solvent abuse is a difficult and hidden issue often overshadowed
by the abuse of illegal drugs. However, when we take into
account the availability of abusable products and the risk
of instant death, 'sniffing' is an issue that society cannot
afford to ignore.
Aims:
- Raise
awareness about the range of substances that may be misused
and how they are misused.
- Recognise
possible indications of solvent abuse.
- Explore
the short and long term effects and associated risks.
- Discuss
prevalence and reasons for use.
- Examine
treatment options and risk reduction
- Consider
best practice skills regarding VSA prevention
Course
Learning Outcomes
By the
end of the day delegates will know how to:
- Identify
legal substances which can be misused and their methods
of use.
- Confidently
recognise signs of abuse and understand referral systems
for treatment.
National
Occupational Standards
This course links to the following units:
AA1, AB2, AD1, AG3, AI1, AI2, HSC22, HSC233, HSC3111, HSC330,
HSC35
Who
should attend?
Individuals and volunteers whose work brings them into contact
with young people or adults in variety of settings, who wish
to increase their skills and knowledge around volatile substance
misuse specifically in relation to identification and treatment.
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