Get professional support – if you feel like your addiction is spiraling out of control, it is essential that you get professional help. Your local GP will be able to refer you to the right local support services and/or residential treatment programs for substance abuse or alcohol addiction.

Talk to friends and family – your loved ones will be able to support you and share their observations of how alcohol or other substances are having an impact on you. It’s also important to maintain these social connections as part of your way of managing addiction.

Join a support group – there are many professional support groups you can join such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. Links for these organisations in New Zealand and Australia are at the bottom of this page.

Consider medical intervention – on the advice of a medical professional there may be treatments available to help you manage your addiction. For example, methadone can be prescribed to help with withdrawal symptoms from drugs such as heroin and methamphetamine.

Change your lifestyle – there are likely to be situations that trigger your addiction. For example, if you have a propensity to drink even more when you go out you may need to stop drinking altogether in social situations or have a period where you do not go to places where alcohol is served. Tell your friends you are having a break from alcohol if needed.

Look after yourself – one of the many side effects of alcohol abuse and substance addiction is the impact it has on your physical and mental wellbeing. Exercising and eating a healthy diet will not only make you feel better but will help support you on your journey to recovery.

Keep positive – the pathway out of addiction is not easy so be kind to yourself and stay positive. Surround yourself with people who will support you knowing that you will get there in the end.