The right support can make it easier to change your drug use.
Types of support include:
- information and advice on how to change your drug use
- talking to someone you trust
- our partner organisations
- a GP or nurse
- our drug and alcohol services
- residential services - this is where you stay in a treatment centre
The type of support you need depends on how drug use affects your everyday life.
The information on this page is for people who want to get help for their drug use. We have other advice if you want to get help for someone else's drug use.
Information and advice on drug use
Information and advice can help you to understand your drug use and what to do next. It can be the first step if you're thinking about change or not sure if you are ready.
Non-urgent advice: Drugs and alcohol helpline
You can contact the helpline for support, information or advice on treatment and support options.
Freephone: 1800 459 459
Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 5.30pm
Email: helpline@hse.ie
Talking to someone you trust about your drug use
Having someone to talk to can be a great support when you are changing your drug use. Start with someone you trust who has supported you with other things.
You could explain:
- what you have been thinking or feeling
- why you use drugs
- what you want to change
- how they can help
People often respond well when someone asks for help. But some people may not know what to say or do.
If you do not want to talk about some things with people you know, you could contact the drugs and alcohol helpline.
Our partner organisations
There are many organisations in Ireland that support people who use drugs.
Support can be from:
- people who use or used to use drugs (peer support)
- trained volunteers
- health and social care professionals
Types of support can include:
- helplines and listening services
- support groups - often with other people who are changing their drug use
- family support
- counselling
- advice on how to reduce your risk of harm from drugs
- creating a support plan to reduce or stop your drug use
- help to access and prepare for specialist services
They can also help if you are not sure that you want to change your drug use.
You do not need a referral from a GP for most of these services. But your GP can give you advice about services in your area.
Help from a GP or nurse
A GP or nurse can:
- support you to gradually reduce your use of drugs such as opioids or benzodiazepines
- help you manage symptoms of withdrawal such as anxiety
- give you advice on ways to improve your health and wellbeing
- recommend organisations in your area that can help
- refer you for counselling or therapy
- refer you to specialist services if you need it
If you're worried about talking to your GP
Healthcare professionals talk about things such as drug use all the time. Some GPs also have specialist training in drug use.
But if you feel uncomfortable talking about your drug use or withdrawal, you could:
- write down what you need to say beforehand - you can give your notes to the person if you need to
- explain how you feel - this can help you feel less nervous
- use everyday words - you do not need to know medical terms
- contact a local drug and alcohol service - they can help you to prepare for appointments
Our drug and alcohol services
Our drug and alcohol services can help you to:
- understand your drug use and treatment options
- plan how to stop or reduce your drug use
- improve your health and wellbeing
- find ways to help you reduce the risk of harm from drug use
To access a local service, contact:
- the drugs and alcohol helpline
- your local health office
- a GP or pharmacist
Your waiting time for some services may depend on the demand for appointments in your area.
You can also contact a service directly.
What happens when you go to a drug service
The service will ask you about your drug use, needs and goals. They will work with you to create a plan.
Your plan may include:
- detox preparation and support
- individual or group counselling
- support for mental health difficulties such as depression or anxiety
- testing and treatment for infections such as hepatitis or HIV
- support if you want to stop using other substances such as alcohol or tobacco
- care for specific health needs such as pregnancy
- support from a key worker - a person in the team who will help you achieve the goals in your care plan
- family support
- support for housing, education or work
Residential or specialist services for drug use
Most people can get the help they need through their GP, our partner organisations or our drug and alcohol services. Some people may need specialist services. For example, residential services or day programmes.
If your GP or another health professional thinks you may need specialist help, they will discuss your options with you. They can help you to access a service that meets your needs.