Support for people with drug dependencies

The NHS is committed to helping anyone with an illness and does not discriminate against those with a dependency. If you think you have a drug dependency you should consult your GP; they will be able to assess your condition and refer you to a specialist who will start to tailor your care pathway; during treatment you will work together with a drug key worker to combat your dependency. Treatment also involves counselling and therapy, which will help to identify the reasons you take drugs and teach you new ways to cope; these methods will also boost self-esteem and confidence.

You should also try to talk to people around you, like friends, relatives or colleagues about your problems; they can lend their help and support and help you get through it. If you feel that a friend of relative may have a problem, don’t hesitate to talk to your GP about it or contact either of the helplines listed above; try to talk to the person about it as they may find your emotional support comforting.

If you need additional support you can call the national Drugs Helpline or the FRANK helpline; these services are 24 hour, free services, which offer confidential advice and support. You can also consult the NHS website; this is packed with information and advice and has links to lots of useful websites and sources of support.

There are also a number of private clinics which offer rehabilitation programmes to combat drug dependencies; details of these clinics can be found by using an online search engine.

Guide to Drug Abuse

Drug Abuse Intro

Amphetamines

Cannabis

Cocaine

Drug addiction the implications

Ecstasy

Hallucinogens

Heroin

Alcohol

Long term effects of drug abuse

Short term effects of drug use

Solvents

Spotting the signs of drug abuse

Support for people with drug dependencies