Getting help
GETTING HELP
Managing your drug use can be a big step. Reducing or stopping your drug use can still leave you cravings. So don't be hard on yourself if the first few times you don't succeed. It takes time and most people will try a number of times before they are successful. The important thing, if you want to stop or reduce your use, is to keep trying.
SOME THINGS THAT MIGHT HELP YOU ARE:
Make it more difficult to access -
It's easy to fall back into regular patterns, so try and remove yourself from the things that would normally lead to your drug use. If there are certain people that you use with, get supplies from etc., it may be good to distance yourself from them.
Plan distractions for yourself -
Think about what might help when you are craving, going for a walk, a bath, playing sport. listening to music.
Get support from family and friends -
Having support is a big thing if you can talk to your family and friends and let them know what you are trying to do. It might be good to get them some information on giving up so they understand a little about how it is for you.
Talk to someone -
A counsellor can help you with your strategies to stay on track and give you someone to talk honestly about how your feeling. Some counsellors specialise in drug and alcohol counseling but most counsellors will be able to help. If you don't find you connect with the first one you see, shop around until you find one feel comfortable with.
Join a self help group -
Narcotics Anonymous run regular meetings in most areas, there is also a number of great programs around where you can join a group of likeminded people and gain support. Check out the links below for details.
Look after yourself -
Looking after your self is important, eat well, get plenty of sleep and drink plenty of water. You may not feel like eating or sleeping at first but it is important to look after yourself while your body goes through withdrawal.
See your doctor -
For some drugs there are medications that can help with withdrawal symptoms, such as methadone, Naltrexone, Buprenolphine for heroin. Your doctor can help link you with a program in your area and give you information on these medications.
For more information follow these links:
Reachout.com.au
QLD Govt. - Alcohol, Tobacco & other Drugs Services
Drug Arm Australia
Drugnet.net
InfoXchange Australia
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