Being spiked can often go unnoticed at first because the warning signs are often masked by alcohol
Spiking can happen to anyone anywhere – no matter their age, gender, sexuality or ethnicity. It can be carried out by strangers or by people you know.
EastEnders will shine a light on the growing epidemic later this month as Anna Knight – played by actor and singer Molly Rainford – gets her drink spiked on a night out with friends. With her friends believing that Anna’s behaviour is down to alcohol, the incident initially goes unnoticed.
But, Anna’s friends soon become concerned for her welfare when they realise that her behaviour does not equate to the little amount of alcohol she has actually consumed.
As the situation unfolds, viewers will be able to see the life-changing impact of drink spiking from the unique perspective of both Anna and her friends. The storyline has been developed with Stamp Out Spiking, WithYou and experts who are already in the field to ensure an accurate version of the dark experience.
According to the NHS, there are many variables to how symptoms could surface in your body after getting spiked. It can be difficult to know if someone has spiked you.
But if you feel strange or like you’ve had more alcohol to drink than you actually have, then get help straight away. Tell them that you believe someone has spiked you and call for an ambulance if the symptoms get worse.
Signs and symptoms:
The physical symptoms of spiking can take hold of a person within minutes of being targeted and can last for several hours depending on what someone has used. The signs of spiking could include:
- confusion
- nausea or vomiting
- hallucinations and paranoia
- disorientation or poor coordination
- loss of ability to communicate properly
- memory loss
- feeling sick or throwing up
- lowered inhibitions
- loss of balance
- unconsciousness
- problems with vision
As well physical effects, such as feeling sick or dizzy, you might experience a range of emotions after someone spikes you. These are normal responses to a stressful life experience.
What happens if I report I’ve been spiked?
A forensic test can establish whether someone may have spiked you. Only the police can conduct a forensic test and the result of this can be used in evidence if the person who spiked you is later found and identified. You can report spiking without providing a sample for forensic testing.
How can you stay safe?
Spiking is a criminal offence and whilst all venues should be taking steps to ensure they are safe places to be, you may still need to protect yourself, particularly if you feel at risk or you’re in a place that is unfamiliar. To spike a drink means to put alcohol or drugs into someone’s drink without their knowledge or permission.
There is also some concern at the possibility that people are being ‘spiked’ by needles/syringes containing drugs. Although this is much less likely than drink spiking, a lot of the advice for staying safe from spiking a drink can also protect you from the possibility of needle spiking too.
There are some things you can do to protect yourself from the risk of spiking, according to TalkToFrank:
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Plan your night out, including your journey there and back.
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Make sure the venue you are going to is licensed – venues are required to take steps to ensure the safety of their customers.
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When going to a pub, club or party avoid going alone. Friends can look out for one another.
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Be aware of what’s going on around you and keep away from situations you don’t feel comfortable with.
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Think very carefully about whether you should leave a pub, club or party with someone you’ve just met.
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Make sure your mobile phone has plenty of charge in it before you leave home and keep your mobile safe and accessible.
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Always buy your own drink and watch it being poured.
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Don’t accept drinks from strangers.
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Never leave your drink unattended while you dance or go to the toilet.
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Don’t drink or taste anyone else’s drink.
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Throw your drink away if you think it tastes strange or different.
