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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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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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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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.

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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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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.

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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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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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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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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.

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GHB and mental health

GHB is a depressant drug that can feel like alcohol intoxication at first. Risk of overdose is very high. Not a lot is known about the long-term effects of GHB yet, but regular use does lead to dependence.

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Cocaine and mental health

Cocaine is a highly addictive drug which can have an adverse affect on the mental health of the user. Long-term use can cause depression, sleep disorder and aggressive behaviour.

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LSD (acid) and mental health

LSD is a powerful drug, people who take LSD do not know if they are going to have a good trip or a bad one, or how intense the trip will be. This is dependent upon their mood and mental state at the time.

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Heroin and mental health

Heroin users are likely to develop mental health problems. Heroin is highly addictive, but there are many treatment options available for heroin users trying to kick the habit.

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Ice and mental health

Regular use of ice can lead to a condition known 'ice psychosis', making the user paranoid, aggressive and violent. It can be hard helping a friend or loved one cope with an ice addiction - but there is support available.

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Marijuana and mental health

Long-term marijuana users can become reliant on the drug. If they do try to stop, they may feel anxious, irritable and angry. Marijuana can trigger psychosis in people who are already at risk.

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Causes of anxiety

There are many causes of anxiety such as a family history, ongoing stressful occasions, physical health issues, substance abuse or your personality type.

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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.

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Causes of depression

Depression (also known as major depression, or clinical depression) is a medical condition where people experience long and intense periods of low mood which affects their ability to function.

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Symptoms of PTSD

No two people experience symptoms of PTSD in the same way. PTSD in children and teenagers can also occur differently from how it does in adults.

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Personality disorders: symptoms, diagnosis, causes

Every personality disorder has its unique symptoms and behaviours. Someone may display some of these traits but not have a personality disorder diagnosis.

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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.

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Diagnosis of schizophrenia

If you have unusual thoughts, perceptions or behaviours that sound like schizophrenia, a doctor can diagnose your symptoms and recommend 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.

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Assessment of paranoia

It's important to seek professional help if you or someone you know, is affected by paranoid thoughts often. An assessment can help determine the cause.

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Tips for men on coping with family break-up, separation or divorce

Dealing with a family break-up, separation or divorce can leave you feeling powerless. Find out about tips for men on how to cope better.

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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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Anorexia nervosa symptoms

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

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