It takes courage for someone to admit they may have a problem with drugs or alcohol. Recognising you might have an issue and asking for help is an important first step to making a change.
Different people will have different definitions or opinions of what is too much and when does using substances (including alcohol) become problematic. Thinking about the 4 L’s can be useful:
Is it affecting my LIVER? Liver implies all the physical and psychological health problems caused by alcohol and drug use, such as cirrhosis, depression, anxiety, and psychosis. It also refers to risk of increased injury which might need medical attention like falling, fighting, or stumbling.
Is it affecting my LIFESTYLE OR LIVELIHOOD? Refers to problems of employment, problems with study, financial problems and other problems which have taken place due to substance use and its changes to social behaviours.
Is it affecting my LOVE LIFE? Refers to relationships within families, friends, and romantic partners. Thinking about how substances are contributing to arguments, disagreements, and breakdown of relationships.
Am I having problems with the LAW? Can what I am doing cause potential issues with the law? Am I putting myself at risk of being caught DUI (Driving under the influence) or being caught with illicit drugs? Or can the behaviours that happen because of my use land me in trouble with the law?
How to find support
There are services throughout Australia that offer drug and/or alcohol support and treatment options for yourself or people you care about.
Different people will have different service needs, and this will depend on the nature and complexity of the issues they might be facing. In many cases, starting a conversation with your local doctor or primary care provider can be a good first step.
ADIS - a confidential and free helpline
It can be challenging and confronting for people admitting they have a possible problem and then talking about it, especially with someone they know. If this is the case, there are a multitude of helpline and online options available to start this confidential and free conversation.
ADIS (Alcohol and is and Drug Information Service NSW) 1800 250 015 is a good place to start, where one can either talk on the phone or use webchat. It is a free and confidential counselling helpline for NSW residents with concerns around alcohol and/or drug misuse and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
ADIS is staffed by professional counsellors who provide education, information, counselling, support, and referrals to other appropriate services in NSW. This 24/7 support line can also be used by families and carers who are concerned about someone they love.
The webpage yourroom.health.nsw.gov.au has a lot of resources and more pathways to help.
For pathways to help, local resources and more information and a directory to services go to the Service Directory on this website.
Free Poster download
Download and print the ADIS poster below.
They can be used for tea rooms, behind toilet doors, in offices and clubhouses.
All of Deni can be part of making sure our community knows when and where to look for help if needed.
