Alcohol Drug Helpline
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If you are worried about your own drug taking, or a friend, get in touch with the
You'll be able to speak with a trained counsellor, who can provide you with helpful information, insight and support. They’re available 24/7, all calls are free and confidential.
Call the Alcohol Drug Helpline on 0800 787 797
Free txt 8681 and we will txt you back for a free, confidential conversation
Call our Māori Line on 0800 787 798 for advice and referral to kaupapa Māori services
Call our Pasifika Line on 0800 787 799 for advice and referral to services developed for Pacific people
Call our Youth Line on 0800 787 984 for advice and referral to services for young people
Website
At the Helpline we are committed to providing a culturally affirming service, utilising resources available specifically for Māori, and referring callers to kaupapa Māori treatment services when requested.
Do I have a problem?
If you do have a problem with alcohol or drug use, you may experience one or more of the following:
drinking too much (perhaps vomiting or experiencing a hangover)
overdosing (losing consciousness)
regular need for the alcohol or other drug
having previous failed attempts to stop using
significant changes in mood and/or behaviour
a decline in health (mental and/or physical)
neglecting responsibilities
lowered productivity
accidents
financial problems
deteriorating relationships at work and with family and friends
doing things you normally wouldn’t do (such as illegal activities like stealing)
What’s OK? Is it ever safe to use drink alcohol or use drugs?
Different people react in different ways to alcohol and drugs. The safest option is to avoid drinking alcohol or using drugs.
If you are concerned about whether your use is okay then check out either our drug testor drink test.
No drugs are safe – all drugs have risks associated with them. This includes drugs prescribed by a doctor, medicines you buy over-the-counter at the supermarket or pharmacy, legal drugs such as tobacco or alcohol, and illegal drugs such as cannabis, methamphetamines, ecstasy and heroin.
The effect of any one drug (including alcohol) depends on lots of things, including the person’s size, weight, metabolism, general health and wellbeing, how much is used, how it is taken, whether the person is used to using it, whether other drugs are also taken, the person’s mood and the environment in which it is used.
Avoiding use of all drugs, unless prescribed by a medical professional, is the safest option. However, if you do choose to use alcohol or other drugs, please:
When taking prescription medications, always follow instructions for use
When drinking alcohol, drink sensibly and stick to the recommended guidelines
When taking illicit drugs, know what you are taking, the risks and effects the warning signs and what to do if something goes wrong. Knowledge and information guide you and helps keep you safe. Click on Drugs A-Z in the navigation for further information.
At any time, if you seek advice and guidance, contact the Helpline (0800 787 797).