The use of alcohol and other drugs in Australia is common. Most often, people use alcohol or drugs because of the effect it has on them. Alcohol of drugs may make them more relaxed, provide them with a temporary escape from their worries, or induce a state of happiness or increased confidence.
People with a mental illness are more likely to use alcohol or drugs at risky levels. Alcohol or drug use may provide them with a temporary escape from the symptoms of their illness. This is often referred to as self-medicating.
Many people are able to use such substances without experiencing mental health problems as a result. However, it is clear that some people experience drug induced mental health problems as a result of using drugs. These problems can include anxiety, depression, psychosis and memory problems.
Many factors will determine the type of reaction a person experiences when using alcohol or drugs. These factors include the individual characteristics of the person, their mood, the environment, the amount of the drug used and combination of drugs used. Alcohol and drugs can trigger mental health problems or intensify symptoms in people who are already experiencing a mental illness.
It is understandable that people try to find something to help them feel better. However, there are a number of consequences from using drugs. We also know that when people already have a mental illness, sometimes even small amounts of substance use can have an impact on their mental health and, in some instances, interfere with their psychiatric medication.
There is evidence to suggest that tobacco smoking is more common among people in treatment for anxiety disorders, depression and schizophrenia. People with substance use problems are even more likely to smoke. Research has found that smokers with mental health problems find quitting more difficult. If you would like more information about quitting smoking contact 1300 889 788.
Cannabis (also known as marijuana and hashish) itself does not cause mental illness. However, if a person experiences anxiety or depression, cannabis can either trigger or make these feelings worse.
Cannabis is also known to trigger psychotic episodes, particularly in those who are predisposed to mental illness. For these reasons it is recommended that those people diagnosed, or with a family history of,schizophrenia or other mental illnesses, do not use cannabis.
Many family members and friends of people who use substances can feel powerless and distressed by seeing the ones they love causing harm to themselves by using substances.
Sometimes it is a friend or family member who notices that someone may be having difficulties with alcohol and other drugs. The family member or friend may want to sit down and discuss their concerns with the person. This should be done at an appropriate time, when their relative or friend is not intoxicated and everyone is calm and able to discuss the issue.
Supporting the relative or friend to find other ways of coping without drugs can be helpful. For example, if a person feels that they are using cannabis to deal with stress, they can approach this differently by learning other skills such as relaxation, gentle exercise and problem solving skills. The person should be encouraged to seek advice and support or to speak with their doctor or care coordinator.
It can take your relative or friend time to realise that the negative effects of alcohol and other drugs outweigh the short term feeling they get from using. Some people may refuse to seek support. This can be a frustrating period for you because you want your family member or friend to give themselves the best opportunity to stay well.
Caring for someone who using substances can be like being on a roller coaster, experiencing the highs and lows and not knowing what lies around the corner. Family and friends can be left feeling stressed and it is important that they feel they have support at this time.
Northern Sydney Central Coast Area Drug and Alcohol Service
Phone: 1300 889 788
For confidential information advice, assessment, counseling and referral for all drug and alcohol related problems.
Alcohol and Drug Information Service 24 hour helpline
Phone: (02) 9361 8000
Family Drug Support Service
Phone: 1300 368 186
Website: www.fds.org.au
Assists families throughout Australia to deal with drug issues in a way that strengthens relationships and achieves positive outcomes.
NSW Poisons Information Centre
Phone: 131 126
Service Directory: NSW Detoxification and Rehabilitation Services - click here