Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children
Alcohol and drug addiction, also known as substance addiction or dependence, occurs when someone becomes both physically and mentally reliant on a substance. This reliance often leads to tolerance, where increasing amounts are needed for the same effect, and withdrawal symptoms when the substance is reduced or stopped. Alcohol and drug addiction also interferes with the brain’s reward system, driving cravings even when the substance use causes significant harm.
Identifying alcohol and drug addiction can be challenging, but common signs include:
Loss of Control: Struggling to cut down or stop using, even if you want to.
Cravings: A strong urge to use the substance, often feeling like you can't think about anything else.
Tolerance: Needing more of the substance to get the same buzz as before.
Withdrawal: Feeling physically or mentally unwell when you're not using.
Neglecting Responsibilities: Letting work, school, or family duties slide because of substance use.
Social and Interpersonal Issues: Having more arguments, becoming isolated, or being secretive about your activities.
Physical Changes: Noticeable changes in appearance, like weight fluctuations or neglecting personal hygiene.
Behavioural Changes: Mood swings, irritability, or acting out of character.
Financial Issues: Spending lots of money on the substance, borrowing money, or facing financial trouble.
Risk-Taking: Doing risky things while under the influence, like driving or unsafe behaviours.
Around 2.8 million Australians
use cannabis
Approximately 113,000
people use cocaine
regularly in Australia
Around 77% of Australian
adults drink alcohol
One in three adults exceed the Australian Alcohol Guidelines, risking alcohol-related disease or injury.
Addiction to alcohol and drugs affects nearly every aspect of a person’s life—health, mental well-being, and relationships. Addressing alcohol drug addiction effectively requires personalised, multifaceted treatment plans.
CBT is a proven approach for managing alcohol drug addiction. It helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours, develop coping mechanisms, and reduce the risk of relapse.
MI focuses on enhancing an individual’s motivation to change harmful habits associated with addiction. It is particularly effective for young people and those with mild dependence.
These short counselling sessions aim to reduce harmful substance use, particularly in individuals not yet experiencing severe dependence.
CM uses tangible rewards to reinforce sobriety and adherence to treatment plans, showing strong results for opioid and polysubstance users.
RP equips individuals with skills to manage cravings, handle high-risk situations, and maintain sobriety.
ACT helps individuals struggling with alcohol and drug addiction by focusing on psychological flexibility. Rather than trying to eliminate cravings or distressing thoughts, ACT encourages people to accept these experiences while committing to actions that align with their values. By using mindfulness strategies and behaviour change techniques, ACT supports long-term recovery and reduces the impact of urges and triggers.
Therapeutic communities, Twelve-Step Programs, and pharmacological treatments, such as acamprosate and naltrexone, complement psychosocial approaches to provide comprehensive support for recovery.
*Source: Evidence Based Psychosocial Interventions in Substance Use – National Library of Medicine
A strong support network is key. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups for encouragement—you’re not alone in this.
Setting clear, realistic goals keeps you motivated. Whether it's cutting down or aiming for abstinence, a plan makes a big difference.
Find hobbies you enjoy to distract from cravings. Exercise, painting, reading, or learning something new can keep you busy and feeling fulfilled.