Many people turn to alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs for various reasons - relaxation, increased energy, reduced inhibitions, or pleasure. Some use these substances as a coping mechanism for life's challenges.
Alcohol and drug use can negatively affect individuals and their families, even without addiction or high dependency. If your substance use interferes with work performance, relationships, or daily life, it's advisable to get professional help, which could include help from a psychologist.
Dependencies can Common problematic substances include:
- Legal: alcohol, benzodiazepines, codeine-based painkillers, tobacco
- Illegal: cannabis, heroin, amphetamines (including unprescribed dexamphetamine), methamphetamine
These substances can lead to dependence and cause problems even in small doses.
Substance use issues aren't limited to stereotypical "addicts." Many affected individuals are ordinary people using substances to manage stress or difficult emotions, often exacerbating their problems long-term. Underlying issues typically prompt substance use, with stress being a significant trigger for cravings and relapse. Related conditions may include depression, anxiety, impulsivity, attention problems, and bipolar disorder.
If you're concerned about your substance use or its impact on your life, seek help early to prevent escalation. Someone.health offers assessment and support for managing these concerns.
Our psychologists can assist by:
- Acknowledging the issue
- Providing emotional support
- Educating on best practices for reducing substance use
- Identifying underlying concerns
- Addressing thoughts and feelings about substance use
- Teaching new ways to relate to thoughts and feelings
- Developing a support system and self-care plan
- Finding suitable short- and long-term treatment programs
You can book an appointment in less than five minutes on our website.