Drug dependence is when you feel you need a drug to get through the day, or to avoid feeling unwell. It can involve illegal drugs, or medicines such as opioid painkillers or sleeping tablets. It is a health condition, and help is available.
Signs of drug dependence
- feeling you cannot cope without the drug
- needing more to get the same effect
- withdrawal symptoms when you stop
- using more than you meant to, or finding it hard to stop
- carrying on despite harm to your health, work, money or relationships
Staying safer
If you use drugs, these steps can reduce harm:
- do not use alone, and avoid mixing drugs, including with alcohol
- if you use opioids, carry naloxone and make sure others know how to use it
- use clean equipment from a needle and syringe programme
- your tolerance drops quickly after a break, such as after prison, hospital or detox, which raises the risk of overdose
Getting help
- Local drug and alcohol services are free and confidential. You can usually refer yourself.
- Your GP can help and refer you.
- FRANK gives free, confidential advice on 0300 123 6600.
Common questions
Will I get into trouble if I ask for help?
No. Drug services are confidential and are there to help, not judge. They will not usually share information without your agreement, unless someone is at serious risk.
What is naloxone?
Naloxone is a medicine that can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose, for example from heroin or methadone. Local drug services and many pharmacies give out free naloxone kits and show you how to use them.
Sources we used
- NHS, Drug addiction, getting help
- NICE guideline CG51, Drug misuse in over 16s, psychosocial interventions
- FRANK
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