I’m worried about my drinking or drug use
Drug and alcohol misuse is common with many people and families being affected yearly in the UK.
Recent statistics show 1 in 11 adults have used drugs within the last year with drug and alcohol misuse rising in children 14-18. Equally alcohol use is on the rise with 24% of adults drinking over the recommended limits and over 600, 000 dependent drinkers across the country.
It may seem gloomy statistics but should not be a cause for concern for those out there seeking and wanting help as a range of support services are available to help address the causes and challenges brought about from substance misuse and addiction.
In Somerset there is a number of options for you depending on the severity, complexity and nature of your substance use
If you think you have a drinking or drug use issue, please get in touch with Mindline Somerset locally on 01823 276892 or freephone 0800 138 1692.
If you are in crisis and need immediate support please contact 999.
Substances and Mental Health
The issue now commonly known as “co-existing disorders”, this being substance use and mental health issue existing at the same time is understood in much more depth and local services are aimed at supporting those who have challenges with both.
It is important to know that the use of substances can have a powerful effect on your mental health. Substance use disorders can both worsen an already existing mental health issue or in some cases cause one due to the psychoactive nature of illicit drugs and alcohol.
More information about this can be found on the Mind and Rethink Mental Illness websites.
How to get help
Somerset Foundation Trust mental health services work closely with drug and alcohol partners Somerset Drug and Alcohol Service (SDAS) to ensure positive joint working practice takes place to address people suffering both mental health and substance use disorders. Your GP or other health professional can refer you to either service and you can self-refer to SDAS.
Local “no wrong door” approaches means you can contact and begin working with either service and whichever you feel most comfortable to approach first will support you to engage with the other if the need presents itself.
SDAS is provided by the addiction charity Turning Point, you can seek help as a family or friend without your loved one suffering substance use issues having to be engaged in treatment.
You can call SDAS to self-refer on 0300 303 8788
You can also get good advice around addiction on the NHS website here.
In addition to NHS services and SDAS a range of voluntary services can help you make positive steps to change
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
Cocaine Anonymous (CA)
Marijuana Anonymous (MA)
SMART Recovery
Useful Resources
Alcohol Change UK
Drug Wise
Talk to Frank
The Loop