substance use disorders

Substance use disorders (SUDs) afflict one in seven people during their lifetime.

What is it?

A SUD is present when a person cannot control their intake of a drug or medication to the point where it causes them harm. It includes what is sometimes described as dependence or addiction.

The substances involved may be illegal drugs such as heroin or cocaine or readily available products like alcohol or nicotine that affect the brain and cause a preoccupation with use alongside cravings and even physiological changes.

What are the treatments?

Across Australia, there are a wide range of services and support for people wanting treatment options for their SUDs, as well as support for their families and friends.

Most treatment options aim to reduce harm, coordinate care, and provide intensive interventions that can include withdrawal management or detoxification, counselling, peer support programs, rehabilitation and medication-assisted therapy. Treatments are tailored to the individual’s needs.