Service Description

Substance abuse counseling is a combination of treatment and support to help people break free from drug or alcohol addiction. This specific type of therapy is often a key part of rehabilitation programs so clients can overcome substance dependence mentally and emotionally. Substance abuse counseling involves: 1. Talk therapy sessions. 2. Discussing the causes of addiction 3. Positive coping strategies 4. Developing treatment goals and plans 5. Practicing skills and behaviors necessary for recovery 6. Recommendations for 12-step programs or groups Substance abuse, also known as substance use disorder, involves the overuse of substances such as alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs, often to dangerous levels. It is characterized by heavy and prolonged use of a substance that leads to personal or social problems. In Australia, around 1 in 20 people has an addiction or substance abuse problem. Substance abuse can result in changes and long-term damage to the brain and other organs. Commonly abused substances in Australia are tobacco and alcohol. Smoking is the main cause of preventable death and disease in the country. About 1 in 4 Australians drinks alcohol at risky levels, which can lead to short-term risks such as accidents, injuries, and violent behavior, as well as long-term medical complications like liver disease and mental health disorders. Drug use disorders can include the misuse of illegal drugs (such as cannabis and amphetamines) and the use of medicines, like painkillers or sedatives, for non-medical reasons. The most used illicit drugs in Australia are cannabis, cocaine, and ecstasy. Signs that substance use is becoming a problem include loss of control of alcohol or drug use, harm from substance use (such as injuries, medical problems, damaged relationships, or problems at work), and the development of addiction and dependence on those substances. Addiction is a mental and physical dependence where you are unable to control or stop using the substance, even when it’s causing you harm. You may develop tolerance (where the substance does not have much effect on you, or you need more of the substance to get the effect you want) and have cravings or withdrawal symptoms when stopping. Withdrawal symptoms are feelings of physical illness when not using the substance, and these symptoms are relieved by taking more of it. If you suspect someone is struggling with substance abuse, it's important to seek professional help. There are many resources av