Substance misuse

Using drugs and alcohol is known to change your feelings quickly, so it's no surprise people turn to them when they're going through a tough time, wanting to relax or escape a bad feeling (including mental health problems).

Alcohol and drugs

It's important to know, although alcohol and drugs give you a short term escape from your feelings, this doesn't last long, drinking to excess and drug use can have a negative impact on your overall health and can make your feelings worse.

The effect of drugs on your body and mind is unpredictable and if you begin to rely on them to escape your feelings, it's important you access help and support available.

Help and support

If you're worried that you're drinking too much or you have a drug related problem you can get treatment:

• ask your GP (doctor) for advice. If you aren't registered with a GP you can find and register with a GP
• speak to your social worker or any other healthcare worker, they can refer you for an assessment and treatment if necessary
• refer yourself to Turning Point who provide free treatment in Leicestershire.
  • 0330 303 6000
  • llreferrals@turning-point.co.uk
  • Visit one of the Turning Point hubs for advice.

You can also get useful information about giving up drugs from:

• Talk to Frank offer friendly, confidential drugs advice
• Health for Teens - Drugs provides information for teenagers and young people

If you need information about alcohol problems, you can go to:

• NHS One You – Drink less to find out about the effects of drinking alcohol
• NHS One You – Days off app helps you track your drinking
• Health for Teens -Alcohol provides information for teenagers and young people