Drugs that can cause difficulties include prescription medications such as Valium, Ritalin, Adderall, steroids, codeine, opioids, and painkillers. Legal recreational substances such as nicotine, alcohol, solvents, or nangs (nitrous oxide) can also become problematic. Illegal recreational drugs may include cocaine, marijuana, ketamine, MDMA, GHB, crystal meth, ice or heroin.
Use commonly increases over time. This may involve larger quantities, more frequent use, or a widening range of substances. Many people notice that their daily life begins to organise itself around drug use. A significant amount of time can be spent thinking about drugs, sourcing them, using them, or managing access. This may include switching doctors or pharmacies, obtaining drugs online or through contacts, waiting for dealers, hiding use, telling lies, or pulling away from friends who do not use drugs while spending more time with those who do.
Travel and holidays can become difficult if access feels uncertain. Some people feel a constant fear of running out or not being able to get the drugs they prefer. Others find themselves taking party drugs when alone, or combining substances to manage the effects of feeling too high or too low.
Problematic drug use can interfere with sleep, making restful nights difficult. Physical health effects may include nosebleeds, constipation, night sweats, irregular heartbeat, sleep apnoea, bladder weakness, skin problems, dehydration, exhaustion, depression, and high anxiety.
Financial strain is common. People may spend large amounts of money on drugs, borrow money, sell possessions, gamble to fund use, or take drugs from others. Legal problems can occur, and some episodes end in hospital visits due to overdoses, accidents, or psychotic breaks.
I work with adults who are trying to understand their relationship with drugs and reduce the impact on their lives. I see addiction as a survival response rather than a personal failing, and I meet you where you are, whether you are seeking harm minimisation, greater control, or deeper change over time.
Together, we look beneath surface behaviours to understand what your drug use has been helping you manage, and how your life can begin to stabilise once it is no longer organised around fear, survival, and consequences.
Recovery is not about pressure or quick fixes. It is about rebuilding a life that feels more aligned with your values, one step at a time.
If you would like to explore whether working together feels right for you, you are welcome to get in touch.
Please be aware that psychotherapy should not be considered an emergency treatment. If you are feeling suicidal, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14, and contact your GP or other healthcare provider for extra support.
