Preparing to quit drugs

Reducing or quitting drugs can be hard – you may have become dependent or addicted.
It’s a good idea to be prepared for what’s involved.

Admit you have a problem

The first step in quitting drugs is to admit that you have a problem. If you’re not sure,
ask yourself the following questions:

 Are you taking drugs first thing in the morning or to get through the day?
 Do friends or family worry or complain about your drug use?
 Do you lie about how much you’re using?
 Have you sold possessions or stolen to pay for your drug habit?
 Have you participated in dangerous or risky activities, such as driving under the
influence, having unprotected sex, or using dirty needles?
 Do you feel that you’ve lost control of your drug taking?
 Are you having problems with relationships?

If you answered yes to any of these questions it might be time to accept that you have a
problem and ask for help.

See your specialist alcohol and other drugs service or local doctor

It’s important to talk to your specialist alcohol and other drugs (AOD) service or doctor
about reducing or quitting drugs. They can help you get appropriate help and support.

It takes courage for someone to admit they may have a problem with drugs or alcohol.
Recognising you might have an issue and asking for help is an important first step to
making a change.

For free and confidential advice about alcohol and other drug treatment services, you
can call the Alcohol and Other Drug hotline on 1800 250 015. It will automatically direct
you to the Alcohol and Drug Information Service in your state and territory. These local
alcohol and other drug telephone services offer support, information, counselling and
referral to services. You can also visit a specialist alcohol and other drugs service or
doctor directly.