An introduction to addiction
Addiction is not having control over doing, using or taking something to the point that it could be harmful to you. This can include substances such as alcohol and drugs or gambling. Living with an addiction can impact all areas of your life including your health, relationships with friends and family, work and finances.
Caring for someone with an addiction to drugs or alcohol
Caring for a loved one who has an addiction to a substance such as drugs or alcohol can be very challenging. The stigma in society around addiction can make it difficult for family or friends to reach out for support. Very few people who support a loved one with an addiction identify themselves as a Carer. This can result in isolation and not accessing vital support services to protect your own wellbeing.
Many Carers also have to support with the additional problem of the drug user having a mental health problem (dual diagnosis). This type of condition can create barriers for accessing the correct treatment or service. For many people with an addition, the mental health diagnosis cannot be treated effectively whilst there is still concurrent drug use, this causes many people to drop out of services putting more stress and strain on their Carer and family.
Derbyshire Adult Carer Support Service
Derbyshire All Age Carers Support Service have a variety of support services that have been designed to assist Carers with the practical, physical and emotional impact of care giving. We can help you create a support plan and prepare for the future by connecting you to relevant services and giving you choice and control over the support you receive.
Derbyshire Recovery Partnership
Derbyshire Recovery Partnership is a combined drug and alcohol service and provides a variety of services including:
- advice to drug/alcohol users and/or their carers/family members
- medical prescribing and detoxification
- a counselling service
- group based treatment.
Call or text 0124 620 6514 or email info@derbyshirerecoverypartnership.co.uk
Families Anonymous is a world-wide fellowship of family members and friends affected by another’s abuse of mind-altering substances, or related behavioural problems. FA has groups, spread throughout the country, which meet regularly.
Find out everything you need to know about drugs, their effects and the law. Talk to Frank for facts, support and advice on drugs and alcohol today. There are a lot of useful factsheets on their website such as what to do in an emergency and if you are concerned about a friend.
Call 0300 1236600 or text 82111
Delivered by Action for Children, Space for you in a service that supports children affected by others substance use. The service works with children aged 5 to 18 across Derbyshire.
This free NHS service provide information and support for people worried about their gambling or their loved ones gambling. They also provide specialist therapies, treatment and recovery to those affected by gambling addiction and gambling problems.
Call 0300 013 2330 or email dhcft.emgamblingharms@nhs.net
