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.

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Drugs and alcohol

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

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What is addiction?

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

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Drug abuse

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Party drugs

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

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How to help someone who is misusing drugs or alcohol

Supporting a friend or family member who's struggling with drug or alcohol misuse is not easy. These tips and resources may help.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Cannabis (marijuana)

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.

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Mental health and wellbeing

Almost half of Australian adults will experience a mental illness at some point in their life. Mental health conditions do not discriminate, and can affect anyone. But support and treatment can help.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Anorexia nervosa

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

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Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

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

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What do social workers do?

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

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Dissociative identity disorder

Dissociative identity disorder, previously known as multiple personality disorder, causes people to feel as though they have multiple distinct personalities.

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Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT)

Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy (talk therapy) that helps a person to identify and change unhealthy or damaging thinking habits.

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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.

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Schizophrenia

Despite what many think, people with schizophrenia don’t have a ‘split personality’ and very few are violent. Learn more about this mental illness.

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Social anxiety disorder

Social anxiety or phobia is a fear of social situations. People with social phobia can feel anxiety and fear even over everyday social outings.

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