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Alcohol and drug use

When drinking or using stops being a way to relax and starts being a way to cope.

Get help now

Alcohol, tramadol, cannabis and other substances can feel like a way to switch off. Over time they usually make low mood, anxiety and anger worse, and can damage health, work and family life.

A man talking openly with a doctor in a clinic consultation room

Signs it may be a problem

  • Using to cope

    You drink or use to sleep, to calm down or to face the day.

  • Needing more

    You need larger amounts to get the same effect.

  • Cannot cut down

    You have tried to stop or reduce and could not.

  • Damage to life

    It is affecting your work, money, health or relationships, and you keep going anyway.

  • Hiding it

    You hide how much you use, or feel ashamed and defensive when asked.

Getting support

  1. 1

    Be honest with one person

    Shame keeps this hidden. Telling someone you trust takes some of its power away.

  2. 2

    Do not stop suddenly on your own

    Stopping heavy alcohol or certain drugs suddenly can be dangerous. Speak to a doctor or the Mental Health Authority first.

  3. 3

    Look for treatment

    Public psychiatric hospitals and some clinics offer substance use treatment and counselling.

  4. 4

    Treat the cause too

    Often there is stress, trauma or depression underneath. Treating that helps the recovery last.

Talk to someone

  • National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline

    0800 678 678

    Run by the Mental Health Authority. Toll-free.

    Free to call

  • National Emergency Line

    112

    Police, ambulance and fire. Use it if someone is in immediate danger.

    Free to call

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