Opioids and Other Drugs
If you or a friend need help, don't hesitate to ask.
Prescription drugs, opioids, and street drugs like cocaine, ecstasy, and others are not worth the risk. You don't know what you're getting. You don't know what they'll do to you.
Our Substance Use Policy includes policies for amnesty and good samaritan behaviour that are meant to encourage you to help those in need, even if using an illegal substance or drinking/smoking underage.
Opioids
Opioids and other painkillers can be extremely addictive and extremely dangerous. Many of these products may be laced with fentanyl, which can easily lead to life-threatening overdoses. If you use opioids, there are ways to reduce your risk that you should be familiar with. We also encourage you to consider speaking with a counsellor, medical professional, or support group.
Naloxone kits are available in every residence and at Safety & Security in the ASU. You can also get a free naloxone kit to take home at many local pharmacies and healthcare facilities.
- Signs of an opioid overdose
- How to give a Naloxone injection (video)
- How to give a Naloxone nasal spray (video)
Prescription Drugs
Just because it's a medical drug doesn't mean it's safe or a good idea. Using prescription drugs like stimulants or ADHD medications can cause side effects and lead to anxiety, sleep disorders, and changes to your mood and behaviour.
Prescription drugs may be totally different substances than what you think you're buying. They could also be laced with fentanyl, or include filler substances that can cause reactions.
Even if you think you have a safe supply of a drug, like a friend who has a medical prescription, keep in mind that it can have a totally different effect on you. Differences in body chemistry mean that a drug may be a lot more powerful for you, or the drug may create a dangerous reaction with your legitimate prescriptions. There are very good reasons why these substances are controlled by medical professionals.
Other Drugs
Cocaine, ecstasy, and many other street or party drugs can be easily overused or laced with dangerous, unexpected substances like fentanyl. You can't be certain exactly what you're getting, and the effects may be far too strong to use safely.
Health Canada offers information on the risks of illegal drugs like cocaine, shrooms, ecstasy, methamphetamine, ketamine, and LSD.
Substance Use Policy (PDF)
Share the Air Policy (PDF)
Emergencies
Dial 911
Safety & Security
Open 24 hours a day
Tel: 902.585.1103 or "88" from a campus 585 phone
519 Student Union Building
30 Highland Ave.
Wolfville, NS, B4P 2R6
Naloxone kits are available at Safety & Security or in every Residence; ask an RA for assistance.
Health
If substance use is impacting your life, please consider speaking with our Counselling team.
You can also book an appointment with a doctor at the campus Health Centre.