How to help someone with alcohol and drug problems
Alcohol and substance use has surged since the start of the pandemic. Here’s how to tell if a loved one has a problem and how to help.
With more than 17,000 Australians choosing to give booze a rest as part of the Dry July campaign, mounting research is revealing just how large a problem substance abuse is in Australia.
According to Australian Bureau of Statistics data, one in four Australian adults exceeded national alcohol guidelines, while research by The Banyans Healthcare Group found a fifth of Aussies self-medicate with alcohol for stress management.
And the Covid-19 pandemic hasn’t helped.
Roy Morgan data found the number of Aussies drinking rose significantly in 2021, a review of evidence from around the world found consumption of alcohol and other substances increased.
The dangers of alcohol and substance abuse
“We know alcohol can lead to a number of cancers as well as high blood pressure and heart disease, and mental health issues — not to mention the role alcohol plays in increasing the risk of accidents and injuries,” Alcohol and Drug Foundation chief executive Dr Erin Lalor says.
“Every year there are more than 4100 alcohol-related and more than 2000 drug-related deaths in Australia, as well as thousands hospitalised.”
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The impact of alcohol or substance abuse on families
According to The Banyans research, 23 per cent of Aussie families have a family member who struggles with addiction.
Watching a loved one battle alcohol or substance addiction carries enormous burden for families in almost all aspects of life, and many don’t know how to help them.
The Alcohol and Drug Foundation fields numerous calls from family members deeply concerned about a loved one’s alcohol or drug use, chief executive Dr Erin Lalor says.
“But they don’t know how to support them, or even start the conversation,” Dr Lalor says.
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How to support someone with substance addiction
“Our research shows only about half of Australians know how to access alcohol and other drug information because they don’t know where to look, or what questions to ask,” Dr Lalor says.
In a bid to turn this around, the ADF has launched a new information portal, Path2Help.
Simply answer 11 questions and the portal automatically sifts through more than 7000 specialist services to match you with the support services closest to you, based on your individual needs.
Signs someone may have a problem with alcohol or substances
“Look for signs of particular behaviours increasing, or whether you’re thinking about drinking alcohol more than you usually would,” University of Technology Sydney clinical psychologist, Dr Anastasia Hronis, says.
While there’s nothing wrong with a glass of wine with dinner every so often, you should try to avoid using alcohol as a way to relieve stress, rather than for enjoyment and pleasure.
“Be aware if it’s starting to have a negative impact on your life,” she says.
“For example, not spending time with the family because of drinking, or frequent thoughts about the next time you’ll have a drink.
“And be cautious of building up a tolerance and needing more to get the same effect.”
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Other ways to get help for alcohol or substance addiction
Find the right support
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, Dr Lalor warns.
“While medical and rehabilitation services are important for some, they’re not the only answer,” Dr Lalor says.
“It may be that counselling services, activities within a local community group or even strengthening a sense of belonging may help.
“You don’t need to know what you’re looking for with Path2Help, the portal’s inbuilt algorithm does the work for you.”
Decide how to approach conversations with a loved one
Yes, it can pretty daunting, Dr Lalor says.
“Maintaining trust and open dialogue, free from judgment and accusation, will help you stay on their side,” she says.
“Ask open-ended questions to help you understand.”
Don’t let stigma stop you
“One in five people report feeling too embarrassed to reach out for help,” Dr Lalor says.
“Path2Help is anonymous and confidential and doesn’t store any personal information or data.”
Be persistent
If you’re met with resistance on your first attempt to reach out to someone, don’t be put off. Accepting help can be difficult so find ways to connect with the person you are concerned about and keep trying, Dr Lalor advises.
Remember to support yourself
“Helping someone else with their challenges can be draining,” she says.
“You’ll find counselling and peer support services specifically for family and friends through Path2Help.”
For additional support go to ADF or call the DrugInfo line on 1300 858 584.
Written by Liz McGrath.
