Substance Misuse (Alcohol / Drugs / Dependency)

1) What it is

Substance misuse is using alcohol or drugs to cope with emotions, stress, or trauma, causing harm.

2) What it feels like

• “I need this to cope.”

3) Common signs & symptoms

• cravings
• tolerance
• withdrawal
• secrecy

4) Why it happens

• emotional pain
• trauma
• habit loops

5) Triggers

• stress
• social environments

6) What helps now

• trigger plans
• urge surfing
• change environment

7) Daily self-help support

• build routine

8) Professional treatment options

• local services
• CBT relapse prevention
• group support

9) Medication

May help withdrawal or cravings, GP-led.

10) Practical tips

• recovery improves with support

11) When to seek urgent help

Urgent help if:

• withdrawal is severe

12) Where to get help (UK)

• NHS local drug & alcohol services
• FRANK
• Samaritans 116 123
• Shout 85258

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