Finding the right support shouldn't feel impossible.
You don't have to have all the answers before you ask for help. There are different types of support available for drug and alcohol misuse, from local NHS and specialist services to peer support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous. We can help you understand what is out there and find the right door to walk through.
Assessment & Keyworker Support
An initial assessment helps professionals understand your physical and mental health, family circumstances, and wider situation. A keyworker may then provide ongoing, personalized support.
Detoxification
A medically supported process to help you stop using a substance safely. Detox is not appropriate for everyone and should always be discussed with a qualified professional.
NHS & Specialist Drug Support
support may include
The support available will depend on where you live, your circumstances and the type of help you need.
The NHS and local specialist drug services can provide support tailored to your circumstances. You can speak to your GP, or in many areas, contact a local drug treatment service directly.
Talking Therapies
Talking therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), help you understand the link between thoughts and behaviours while developing healthy new ways of coping.
Harm Reduction
Specialist services help reduce risks associated with drug use, supporting your health even if you are not ready or able to stop using immediately.
Medication
For some forms of dependence, particularly opioids, prescribed medication may form a vital part of your clinical treatment and stabilization process.
Residential Rehabilitation
Some individuals may be referred to residential rehabilitation when a more intensive, live-in level of support is identified as appropriate for recovery.
Free to Attend
There are no dues or fees to join or attend any NA meeting.
Available Online
Connect with support from anywhere through virtual meeting spaces.
NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS
NA is a peer-support fellowship for people who want to stop using drugs. Meetings are warm, supportive, and grounded in mutual respect.
Anonymous
Your privacy is respected; what is said in meetings stays in meetings.
Just Listen
You are welcome to simply sit and listen if that feels right for you.
Local Groups
Meetings are available in hundreds of physical locations worldwide.
No Pressure
A safe space where you don't have to speak unless you want to.
Support for alcohol use
NHS and specialist alcohol services can support people who want to reduce or stop drinking when alcohol is affecting their health, relationships or everyday life.
One-to-one support
Support from trained professionals to understand drinking patterns and work towards realistic goals.
Counselling & CBT
Talking therapies can help people explore the reasons behind drinking and develop healthier ways of coping.
Group support
Some services offer structured group programmes where people can learn alongside others experiencing similar difficulties.
Self-help
Some people benefit from structured self-help programmes alongside ongoing professional support.
Rehabilitation
For some people, more intensive or residential rehabilitation may be appropriate.
“You don't have to decide whether you are ‘an alcoholic’ before asking for help.”
The important question is whether alcohol is causing problems in your life and whether you want support.
Free to attend
No need to speak
Alcoholics Anonymous
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a peer-support fellowship for people who share their experiences with each other to solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. AA is entirely separate from NHS medical treatment; it is a community of people supporting one another through shared experience and mutual strength.
Fully anonymous
Many local locations
Attend simply to listen
Available online
“You don't have to say anything. You can simply sit, listen and see what you think.”
Newcomers to Alcoholics Anonymous are always welcome. There is no pressure to speak, to identify yourself as an alcoholic, or to share your story until you feel ready. Your presence alone is enough.
AA Helpline — 0800 9177 650