Opioids: understanding the risks and finding support 

Understanding the risks, the signs to look out for, ways to reduce harm, and available support can help people make safer choices and access the right support in West Northamptonshire. 

Quick answers about opioids 

• Opioids include substances such as heroin, morphine and codeine 
• They are depressant drugs that slow breathing and heart rate 
• Opioids carry a high risk of overdose, especially when mixed with alcohol or other drugs 
• Dependence and withdrawal can develop over time 
• Inspire offers free, confidential support in West Northamptonshire 

What are opioids? 

Opioids are a group of drugs that act on opioid receptors in the brain and body. They are often prescribed for pain relief, but they can also be used illegally. 

Opioids include: 

• Heroin 
• Morphine 
• Codeine 

Some opioids are prescribed by doctors, while others are obtained without a prescription. Even when prescribed, opioids can carry risks if used for long periods, in higher doses, or in ways other than intended. 

Opioids slow down the central nervous system, including breathing. This is what increases the risk of overdose.

How can opioids make you feel? 

Opioids can make people feel: 

• Relaxed or calm 
• Drowsy or sleepy 
• Less aware of pain 

They can also cause: 

• Slowed breathing 
• Confusion 
• Nausea or vomiting 
• Loss of consciousness 

Effects can vary depending on the substance, the amount used, and whether opioids are mixed with other drugs.

Why do people use opioids? 

People may use opioids for different reasons, including: 

• Managing physical pain 
• Wanting relief from emotional pain or stress 
• Coping with trauma or difficult life experiences 
• Continuing use after a prescription ends 

Over time, the body can become used to opioids, which can lead to tolerance, dependence and increased risk. 

What are the risks of using opioids? 

Physical health risks 

• Slowed or stopped breathing 
• Overdose 
• Unconsciousness 

Mental health risks 

• Low mood or depression 
• Anxiety 
• Reduced concentration 

Dependence and withdrawal 

• Opioids can cause physical dependence 
• Withdrawal symptoms can include aches, nausea, anxiety and agitation 
• Stopping suddenly can feel extremely uncomfortable and difficult 

Overdose risk 

The risk of overdose increases when: 

• Using stronger or unknown opioids 
• Using after a break from opioids 
• Mixing opioids with alcohol, benzos or other depressants 

Is my opioid use a problem? 

There isn’t a single definition of how much is too much. What matters is how opioid use is affecting you or someone you care about. 

Some signs that support from our experienced team could help include: 

• Using opioids more often or in higher amounts than intended 
• Experiencing cravings or withdrawal symptoms 
• Needing opioids to feel “normal” 
• Opioid use affecting health, relationships, work or education 
• Worry about overdose or safety 

Reducing the risks of opioid use 

If someone is using opioids, there are ways to reduce some of the risks: 

• Avoid mixing opioids with alcohol, benzos or other depressants 
• Be aware that strength and purity can vary 
• Understand that tolerance can change after breaks from use 
• Seek advice if unsure about risks 

If someone feels dependent on opioids, stopping suddenly can be very difficult. Support can help make changes safer. 

Cutting down or stopping opioid use 

Some people want to stop using opioids completely. Others want to reduce their use. 

What’s right depends on: 

• How long opioids have been used 
• The type of opioid 
• Health and personal circumstances 

Support can help people manage withdrawal, reduce risks and find a safer path forward.

When should I think about getting help with opioid use? 

You might consider getting support if: 

• Opioid use feels hard to control 
• You’re worried about dependence or overdose 
• You’ve tried to stop or cut down and struggled 
• You’re worried about someone else’s opioid use 

You don’t need to wait until things reach crisis point to ask for help. 

How Inspire can help 

Inspire provides free, confidential support for people affected by opioid use across West Northamptonshire. 

We support: 

• Young people 
• Adults 
• People worried about someone else’s use 

Support may include: 

• One‑to‑one support 
• Advice to reduce harm 
• Ongoing, personalised support 

You don’t need a diagnosis to access support. 

Getting support 

There are different ways to access Inspire’s services: 

• Self‑referral – if you’d like support for yourself 
• Referral on someone else’s behalf – if you’re worried about a friend or family member 
• Professional referral – through work, GPs or other services 

If you feel like you need support with opioid use, we’re here to help.

Support for someone else’s opioid use 

If you’re worried about someone else using opioids, it can be frightening and exhausting. 

We can support: 

• Parents 
• Partners 
• Friends 
• Carers 

You don’t have to deal with this on your own, and talking things through can help you understand your options. 

When opioid use becomes an emergency 

If you or someone you are with is very unwell, unconscious, struggling to breathe, or you’re seriously worried about overdose, call 999 or seek medical help immediately. 

You’re not alone 

Many people are affected by opioid use, either directly or indirectly. Reaching out for support is a positive step. 

If opioids are affecting you or someone you care about, Inspire is here to help.