Psychosocial Support for Nitrous Oxide Misuse

Nitrous oxide (laughing gas, N₂O) is the third most commonly used recreational drug among young people in the UK. Although it may seem harmless, frequent use can damage the nerves and spinal cord. Vitamin B12 injections can help treat these neurological complications, but continued N₂O use can reduce how effective this treatment is.

Some people use N₂O to cope with stress or emotional difficulties, while others may find it hard to stop because of cravings or habits. These emotional and social difficulties can negatively affect recovery, wellbeing, and quality of life.

Our team has developed a new brief support programme for people experiencing mild to moderate emotional and social difficulties related to N₂O use. The programme provides information and practical strategies to help people cope, manage emotions, and prevent problems from worsening. It is delivered by a trained facilitator over up to four weekly sessions, either in-person or remotely.

In this study, the support programme will be introduced to patients attending the Royal London Hospital clinic for N₂O related neurological harms. Ten participants will receive the programme alongside their usual care. Participants will complete questionnaires before and after the programme to monitor mental health, quality of life, and dependence on N₂O. The research team will evaluate whether the programme was delivered as intended and whether participants remained engaged. Participants will be invited to take part in an interview to feedback on their experiences and suggest improvements before the programme is tested in a larger study. Participation will last up to 8 hours in total over approximately 9 weeks.