Substance abuse

Substance use disorders involve using too much alcohol, tobacco or other drugs, and are also known as substance abuse, substance dependence or addictions.

Read more

Drugs and alcohol

Learn more about alcohol and a range of drugs including marijuana, ice (crystal meth) and MDMA (ecstasy).

Read more

What is addiction?

This article describes the types, causes and signs of addiction, and where to get help.

Read more

Drug abuse

Drug abuse can affect health, relationships, job and education. Learn about Australia’s drug laws, drug addiction and where to get help.

Read more

Helping someone with ice addiction

There are many services available to people who are addicted to ice. As a carer, it's also important that you look after your own wellbeing while supporting someone else.

Read more

Party drugs

Parties are about having a good time. However, party drugs can impact your mental and physical wellbeing, and many are illegal.

Read more

Overcoming addiction

Quitting an addiction doesn't happen overnight - it is a gradual process and may take a few attempts. Rehabilitation will be easier with support to help you deal with withdrawal symptoms and set goals for the future.

Read more

Marijuana (cannabis)

Marijuana (cannabis) is one of the most commonly used illicit drugs in Australia. You can find out more about marijuana and how it impacts users here.

Read more

LSD (acid)

LSD is a hallucinogenic drug that can change the user’s perception of reality. Here’s how LSD works, its physical effects and the health risks of LSD addiction.

Read more

Ice (crystal meth)

Ice, also known as crystal meth, is a very addictive illegal drug. Find out more about ice including what it is and the dangers of abuse.

Read more

How to help someone with a drug problem

This article will provide you with some information and advice on caring for someone with a drug problem.

Read more

Speed

Speed is a drug that can become addictive and lead to health, social and financial problems. Find out about its effects and associated risks.

Read more

MDMA (ecstasy)

MDMA (ecstasy) is an illicit drug which can give a euphoric rush, but which has dangerous side effects. Learn about its physical effects and risks posed by MDMA use.

Read more

Can medicines be addictive?

Some medicines can cause dependence and addiction. Learn which ones are associated with these risks and how to avoid dependence or addiction when taking them.

Read more

Inhalants

Inhalants are chemical substances that release fumes or vapours. Some people inhale these fumes to feel high. There is no safe level of inhalant use.

Read more

Kava

Kava is a drug made from the roots of a plant in the pepper family. It has traditionally been cultivated by Pacific Islanders for use as a ceremonial drink.

Read more

Addiction withdrawal symptoms

For someone recovering from a physical or psychological addiction, they may have withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit. Withdrawal symptoms are different for different people and can be mild or severe.

Read more

Cocaine

Cocaine, or 'Coke' as it is commonly known, is a highly addictive drug associated with health issues and other problems. Learn more about its physical effects and the risks associated to cocaine use.

Read more

Drugs, alcohol and mental health

People from all walks of life take and abuse drugs. Research has revealed that around half of all people with a mental illness also have a substance abuse problem.

Read more

Mental health and wellbeing

Almost half of Australian adults will experience a mental illness at some point in their life. Learn more about a range of mental health and wellbeing issues here.

Read more

Anorexia nervosa

People with anorexia nervosa have an irrational fear of gaining weight and put themselves on restrictive diets and harsh, punishing exercise routines.

Read more

Nine signs of mental health issues

Can you spot the difference between a bad mood and something more serious? These 9 signs could point to a mental health issue in someone you love.

Read more

Types of mental illness

There are nearly 300 mental disorders listed in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). This is a handbook used by health professionals to help identify and diagnose mental illness.

Read more

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD, also known as ADD) is characterised by symptoms including inattention, hyperactivity and impulsive behaviour.

Read more

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Someone with PTSD experiences long-term fear, anxiety and memories of trauma that interfere with their ability to function. Here are symptoms, causes and treatment for PTSD.

Read more

Personality disorders: an overview

Personality disorder refers to a long-term pattern of thinking and behaviour that causes distress, making it difficult to function in everyday life. Read more for personality disorder symptoms and treatment.

Read more

Social workers

Social workers provide counselling, information and referral to other services in crisis situations. Here's what to do if you need a social worker.

Read more

Alcoholism at home

Signs of alcoholism can include secretive drinking, and blacking out after drinking. Drinking too much can impact mental health and relationships.

Read more

Loneliness and isolation

Everyone feels a sense of loneliness and isolation at times. Learn why you may feel this way, how it affects your mental health and how to deal with it.

Read more

Antidepressant medicines

Antidepressant medications treat depression, anxiety and related conditions. They should only be used in consultation with a doctor.

Read more