Inhalant and solvent addiction (volatile substance abuse, VSA) involves sniffing, huffing, or bagging volatile substances such as glue, butane lighter fluid, aerosols, petrol, and correction fluid. VSA is most common among young people but affects all ages. Sudden Sniffing Death Syndrome (SSDS) can cause fatal cardiac arrest on first use — VSA is extremely dangerous. Free support is available in Scalloway via Frank (0300 123 6600) and specialist drug services.
Showing 5 CQC-registered centres from Aberdeen (336 km away) — these centres may accept referrals.
Volatile substance abuse (VSA) carries extreme risks. Sudden Sniffing Death Syndrome can cause fatal cardiac arrest even on first use — particularly with butane, aerosols, and other fluorinated hydrocarbons. Inhalants also cause hypoxia (oxygen deprivation to the brain), permanent neurological damage, liver and kidney damage, hearing loss, and loss of coordination. The risk of suffocation is significant, particularly when inhaling from a bag.
Treatment for inhalant addiction in Scalloway combines psychological support (CBT, motivational interviewing) with harm reduction, family work, and addressing underlying factors (boredom, peer pressure, trauma, housing instability). NHS drug and alcohol services in Scalloway accept referrals for VSA and can provide specialist support. For young people, CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) may also be involved.
Source: National Records of Scotland 2022. Data covers Scotland — the NHS region serving Scalloway. Drug-related deaths are defined as deaths related to drug poisoning, drug misuse and dependence.