Terry's case: A Youth at Risk

You chose 3: that is incorrect.

The correct answer is 4. You should not ask: Where do you get your drugs and how much do they cost you?

If you want to continue to be trusted by Terry, questioning him about where he buys his drugs and how much they cost is not a good idea.

However to properly understand Terry's risks, you do need to ask about substances used, injection habits and sex under the influence. What drugs does Terry inject? Does he take drugs by any other means (by mouth, inhalation)? Does Terry share his injection equipment (the works - syringe and needle)? What about sharing the cotton ball used to filter the drug, the spoon (cooker) used to prepare the drug, or the water used to mix the drug?

Other issues that should be raised during an open and honest discussion about substance use include problems arising as a result of substance use, such as social, employment and family issues.

During such a discussion, it is important to use language that will be easily understood. Drug terminology may vary from one locale to another but becoming familiar with the terms used in your region can help you to effectively communicate with those who use drugs.

For vocabulary you need to know when interacting with a person that uses substances, see below.

Vocabulary you need to know when interacting with a person who uses substances:
Their words	It means
Cut/step on	Substances used to create volume or dilute the quality
Chasing the dragon	Smoking or inhaling heroin
Mainlining or shooting up	IV use
Muscle or skin popping	Injecting in the muscle or under the skin
Cold turkey	Detox without control of withdrawal symptoms

 

For a glossary of terms related to substance use, click here.

For a comparison of the "street names" and scientific names for common drugs, click here.

Don't forget to ask about other percutaneous risks such as tattooing and body piercings.

Substance use vs. Substance abuse

The word use carries no value judgement, but abuse does. Asking about substance use is much more likely to lead to an open, honest answer.