Speed and mental health

Speed can increase your confidence and energy, but high doses and long-term use can cause mental health problems similar to paranoid schizophrenia.

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Alcohol injuries

Excessive alcohol consumption is a major cause of road and other accidents, violence, crime, liver injury and brain damage.

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ON TRACK with The Right Mix

DVA’s ON TRACK with The Right Mix is a free app to help current and former defence force members track drinking and spending and their impact on wellbeing.

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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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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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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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Binge drinking

Alcohol is so much an accepted part of Australia's social culture that many people are not aware of the dangers of binge drinking.

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Is alcohol ever good for you?

Alcohol, according to a recent study, is the most harmful drug in Australia. But can alcohol (wine, in particular) be healthy? Find out here, and get tips on reducing your drinking.

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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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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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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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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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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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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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Heroin

Heroin is a highly addictive drug with many serious side effects. Find out more about heroin's effects and the dangers of long term abuse and addiction.

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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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Alcoholism at home

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

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Hangover ‘cures’

While there are no cures for a hangover, here are tips for avoiding one and for easing the symptoms if you have them.

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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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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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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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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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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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