Signs of substance misuse or addition.

Below are some common signs of substance misuse but be mindful that these are just some examples and each individual may experience and respond in different ways.

• Finding it difficult to meet responsibilities
• Withdrawing from activities or not enjoying activities that used to provide satisfaction e.g. work, family, hobbies, sports, socialising.
• Taking part in more dangerous or risky behaviours e.g. drink driving, unprotected sex, using dirty needles.
• Behaviour changes e.g. stealing, exhibiting violence behaviour toward others.
• Conflict with partner/family/friends, losing friends.
• Experiencing signs of depression, anxiety, paranoia or psychosis.
• Needing more substance to experience the same effects, cravings and urges to use the substance and symptoms of withdrawal when not using the substance.
• Having difficulty reducing or stopping substance use.

• National Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline: 1800 250 015 (available 24/7). This service is free and offers confidential advice about alcohol and other drugs, offers support, information, counselling and referral to services. 
• Family Drug Support (FDS): 1300 368 186 (available 24/7). This service provides support and information to families, friends and carers of people who have problematic alcohol and other drug use across Australia.
• Stimulant Treatment Line: 9361 8088 or 1800 101 188 (outside Sydney) (available 24/7). This service is a confidential service offering information, education and counselling around your own or someone else’s stimulant use.
• Opioid Treatment Line (OTL): 1800 642 428 (Monday to Friday: 9:30am to 5:00pm). This service provides information, advice and referral to opioid treatment options.
• Counselling Online (24/7). Online counselling and support for people with a dependence. counsellingonline.org.au
• Alcoholics Anonymous Australia 1300 222 222 or visit aa.org.au
• Narcotics Anonymous Australia 1300 652 820 or visit na.org.au
• Quitline: 13 78 48 or visit quitnow.gov.au
• Mensline Australia: 1300 78 99 78 (24hrs)
• Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800
• Sobriety App - I am Sober is an addiction buddy useful for quitting any activity or substance.

For local services and centres in your area, visit the Lifeline Service Finder Directory