Substance use refers to when an individual uses alcohol and/or other drugs such as depressants, hallucinogens, or stimulants. Some people are able to use alcohol and/or other drugs without experiencing negative consequences or addiction. However, for many other people substance use can lead to addiction and a range of issues within with relationships, work, school, and a person’s physical or mental health.
If you’re concerned about your own, a friend, family member or loved one’s drug use, it is important to know that help is available. Learning about the nature of drug abuse and addiction including what is addiction, how it develops, and what are the signs of it can help to gain a better understanding of the issue and ways in which to best assist with it. Sometimes, substance users do not want to talk about their substance use, problems, or feelings. They may hint at or say they need to talk. In these situations it is important to be available and listen without judgement, raise your concerns and ask if they are ok. You can encourage them to seek support for themselves. There is a range of support options available for substance use including talking to a psychologist, psychiatrist, contacting an alcohol and drugs service, or talking to a general practitioner (GP). It is also important for those whom are concerned about their loved ones to seek support for themselves you can talk with a friend, counsellor, GP, support group, etc.
The following is a list of some of the support services available on the Gold Coast.
Queensland Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs Service (AODS)
Southport (07) 5687 9119
Palm Beach (07) 5525 5701
Alcohol and Drug Information (24 hours)
1800 177 833
Queensland Injectors Health Network (QuIHN)
(07) 5520 7900
Lives Lived Well
1300 727 927
Family Drug Support – Supporting families affected by alcohol and other drugs in Australia
1300 368 186
How to access psychology/ psychiatry services at Mind on Health can be found here: https://mindonhealthpsychologists.com.au/faqs/
https://www.facebook.com/MindOnHealthPsychologists/
Tamara Hageman
Clinical Psychology Registrar
Mind on Health