MK Young Person's Drug & Alcohol Service.

08/07/2025

Are out and about today with our friends and partner agencies supporting our community and raising awareness, it is importance to know what support is available and how to access this. Thanks to our friends at -mk just to name a few…🙌😇

04/02/2025

and out and about supporting our friends and partners in Milton Keynes. Bringing together community resources and services to promote general well-being and highlight the many resources available within Milton Keynes.

05/12/2024

Congratulations to our friends over at .mk for achieving charity status. It is great to see so many people attend yesterday's event in recognition of the amazing work Dafs provides to those struggling with the effects and implications of substance misuse with the family. We here at are proud to be associated with this incredible organisation and look forward to future joint projects.

25/11/2024

21/10/2024

Swipe left to bust some myths about alcohol 🚫 💭

The truths may surprise you - tap through our carousel to learn more.

Remember we're here to talk.

From all at MK YDAS have a spook-tacular Halloween 🎃

05/09/2024

🟢 Cannabis withdrawals 🟢

Withdrawals from cannabis can be difficult to manage and bear with. Remember that you're not alone and lots of people are experiencing the same thing. If you feel your motivation is diping, don't forget the reason you wanted to make the positive changes to your life in the beginning💪

We're here to talk

02/09/2024

Back to school anxiety is a real thing!
Anxiety: According to the NHS, "anxiety is a feeling of unease, such as worry or fear that can be mild or severe."

Everyone experiences anxiety in some way or another, so you are not alone, especially when going back to school.

It is important to be in control of what you can, such as making sure everything is ready the night before, ensuring you get enough sleep, and making sure your mind and body are healthy.

You can try to plan ahead to ease your worries such as knowing what time you will get to school, if you walk, what route to take, look at your time table to see what lessons you have. You can also ask friends to see if you have any classes together.

Have open communication with those around you. You are not alone, and others may have some more tips and tricks to help with easing your anxiety.

Remember, it is normal to feel anxious and you are not alone.

29/08/2024

Happy Thursday! 💙

As well as supporting young people in the community, at schools or wherever they feel most comfortable, we offer drop in’s at local services where we advertise our own service, meet people in the community and discuss harm reduction advice to those who need it or who have an interest.

Last week Alice & Emma visited MKUH for the morning and brought along the drug box which showcases what real drugs can look like, the effects they can have on someone and the law on possession and supply.

Our next drop in at the hospital is on the 10th September where you will find Ella & Jim ready to answer any questions you may have.

19/08/2024

GCSE results day, a time of high emotions which is entirely normal with everyone affected differently. Some may feel stressed or anxious.

Whilst waiting, YDAS MK offer 5 tips on managing your nerves building up to Thursday:
🎓 Talk to your friends. They're probably feeling the same as you about getting their results.
🎓 Tell your parents, carers and loved ones how you feel. They have probably been in a similar position as you before, so know what it is like waiting for results.
🎓 Take your mind off by doing something you enjoy. Spend time with friends, watch a series or film, and go out for food.
🎓 Do something active. Exercise releases endorphins which make you feel happier.
🎓 Steer clear of mood altering substances like alcohol or cannabis. Remember any high will be temporary and chances are you'll feel worse afterwards.

Be kind to yourself as all the worry in the world can't change the past or the results you're going to get on Thursday!

We wish you all the best for your next steps 🎓

13/08/2024

Nitrous Oxide- AKA 'Balloons', 'Nos', 'Smartwhip' ⛔️

We've seen a rise in nitrous oxide use in young people recently. It's commonly used by inhaling from balloons/ canisters containing the gas. Single use metal cartridges (known as chargers) hold gas, which is released by a devise called a 'cracker', which then releases gas into a balloon that's inhaled.

We are now seeing larger cannisters, known as 'smart whips' that may be cheaper than single use cannisters. Larger canisters lead to further risks, as ita difficult to monitor the amount used.

What are the risks?

Nitrous oxide use can lead to:
🚫 memory loss
🚫 lack of Vitamin B12
🚫 Numbness
🚫 Ear ringing
🚫 Weakened immune system
🚫 Depression
🚫 Paralysis
🚫 Psychological dependence

Be safe when using. Don't hesitate to contact us for further information/ support. [email protected]

05/08/2024

How much do you really know about Vapes?

Vapes are extremely popular due to being easily accessible, bright colours and all different flavours however, some people tend to forget some of the negative effects v**es can have.

Vapes can cause people to have a higher risk of tooth loss, gum disease and tooth decay. They can also cause bad breath, a persistent cough and many other negative health effects.
Not only can Vapes harm the user but also those around due to second hand smoking

1, 600 puff v**e is also equivalent to 40-50 ci******es

Advice:
● If you don't already smoke, don't start va**ng
●If you begin to feel unwell, seek medical attention and tell a trusted adult
●Avoid sharing v**es to reduce illnesses and diseases
●Avoid breathing in the smoke too deeply to protect your lungs

If you or someone you know is struggling with their v**e use and would like some support head to

https://www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/health-and-wellbeing/support-drugs-alcohol-and-gambling/drug-and-alcohol-support-services-young

31/07/2024

The sun is finally here! 🌞

We know the temptation of beer gardens and social events will be high, especially with young people.

Binge drinking is a real concern due to not everyone knowing or understanding the risks.

It helps to understand what you are drinking and to keep track of how much alcohol you are consuming. A great way to do this is to know about units. 1 unit is 10ml of pure alcohol. Units will be different depending on the ABV (Alcohol By Volume). For example, a pint of beer that has 4% ABV is 2.3 units, whereas a pint of beer with 5.2% is 3 units.

Choosing lower strength alcohol or swapping for alcohol free drinks can help ensure you keep yourself safe.

Have fun in the sunshine, but please remember to keep yourself safe whilst out drinking ☀️🍹