Addictive Behaviour

• Addressing Substance Abuse

Addressing Substance Abuse

It is unlikely that you will be able to manage to help your partner or yourself to overcome a serious addiction without some professional help. Your first port of call should be your GP or a national and well respected agency specialising in self-help and support. There is literature and information to help you available from the organisations listed below.

If your partner has a serious problem they may be unable to recognise it and may be unwilling to seek help voluntarily. It sometimes takes the threat of the end of a relationship for the substance abuser or addicted party to seek help.

Different addictions and dependency on specific substances will produce different behaviours and symptoms and there are many organisations that offer specific help for the particular abuse in question. However, if you believe you are in physical danger then you should make attempts to remove yourself from the situation, this can be temporary and you can still support your partner through the recovery process.

The following specialist and well recognised organisations cover all areas of the UK and can offer advice and support networks to help you address your specific problems. People experiencing similar difficulties frequently post on our forum and will also offer further advice based on experience.

Alcohol

Alcoholics Anonymous . A self-help group run by recovering alcoholics for alcoholics. Helpline: 0845 769 7555

Al-Anon offers support for anyone whose life is, or has been, affected by someone else's drinking problem. Includes a good section called Alateen for parents who are concerned about their teenagers. Tel: 020 7403 0888

Drugs

Narcotics Anonymous . A self-help group run by recovering addicts for drug users with a network of meetings across the country: Helpline: 0845 373 3366

Families Anonymous (Famanon). Provides support for the relatives and friends of people with drug problems. Helpline: 0845 120 0660

The National Drugs Helpline . Free help and advice 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Excellent for younger people but also helpful for carers. Tel: 0800 776600

Gambling

Gamblers Anonymous . For anyone who thinks they may have a gambling problem.

Gamanon. Support for anyone whose life is, or has been, affected by someone else's gambling problem.

Eating Disorders

Beating Eating Disorders . Provides support and information on all aspects of eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia and related disorders.

If you need urgent help call The Samaritans 08457 909090.