Getting support

• Consider using less or stopping use.
• Avoid using alone.
• Avoid mixing drugs.
• Consider safer ways of using.
• Be aware of your moods and emotions.
• Be prepared and careful.
• Consider the safety of others.
• Try to live a healthy, balanced lifestyle.

No matter what things are like, we can help you find the right treatment option. We can help you to use more safely, cut down or stop. Treatment might include:

• counselling (listen non-judgmentally, help you identify goals around your substance use, provide helpful strategies to achieve these goals and link you with other community supports and services.)
• withdrawal (detox.)
• Alcohol and Other Drugs Counselling for Young People (from 12 years and older)
• pregnancy support
• opioid treatment
• medications to treat alcohol and other substance use problems
• and many other kinds of support.

We have Aboriginal health staff within the AOD service to support First Nations people.  When asked by health staff at your first point of contact if you identify as being Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, you’ll be offered the support by Aboriginal health staff to provide:

• support for First Nations people with drug or alcohol issues
• support for First Nations people families who are/ have been impacted by drug and alcohol use
• group programs, specifically designed for First Nations people to meet their needs in a culturally appropriate safe way
• links to a range of support services to access in your area, based on cultural needs of First Nations people/ families.

We have consumer representatives with lived experience to support people to access services and those currently engaged with our service. We’re available to have a confidential, friendly chat with you to:

• support people with drug or alcohol issues
• advocate for clients and provide links to a range of support services based on needs
• assist with navigating barriers to treatment.

Finding out that someone you know has an issue with alcohol or drugs can be worrying and frustrating. Knowing what to say or what to do may seem difficult but we have support available for you as well as for them.

Some things that might help include:

• remaining calm when talking with your loved one and knowing when to end the conversation
• maintaining good boundaries – let the person know what you can do and what you can’t do
• looking after yourself – having time out, opportunities for self-care, positive time with friends or family.

Some indicators that your loved one needs help could be: 

• they’re often feeling sick, low on energy, not looking after themselves and their appearance is changing e.g., gaining, or losing weight
• you notice changes in their personality, they seem more lethargic or more aggressive, they are experiencing mood swings
• they’ve been missing days off work or study and are struggling to keep up
• they’re in debt, they aren’t paying their bills, there is unexplained spending, they’ve been borrowing money and not paying it back
• there’s an increase in secretive communication or changes in friendship groups
• they’ve unexplained accidents.

When someone you know is using alcohol or other drugs, it can be overwhelming. To help you support your loved one, it’s important for you to look after yourself. 

• Connect with people who support you.
• Ensure all other family members are safe, particularly young children.
• Set consistent boundaries and expectations around their behaviour.
• Do things that bring you pleasure and help you feel connected, healthy, and positive.
• Monitor your own substance use.