Addiction support
"Addiction is defined as not having control over doing, taking or using something, to the point where it could be harmful to you. Addiction is most commonly associated with gambling, drugs, alcohol and nicotine, but it's possible to be addicted to anything"
NHS.UK
Addiction and dependence can affect anyone at any stage of their lives, so it's important to recognise the signs as early as possible.
Do you recognise any of these signs?
Tolerance
Are you having to take/do more of something for it to have the same effect it once did?
Physical or psychological harm
Has the substance or activity had an adverse physical or psychological effect? Do you feel shame or guilt afterwards?
Lack of control
Do you find it hard to stop yourself from taking a substance or engaging in a certain behaviour?
Persistent desire/need
Do you persistently think about a substance or activity to the point where it is distracting?
Do you often think about how to distance yourself from a substance/activity?
Isolation
Have you surrounded yourself with only the people who engage with the substance/activity? Have you isolated friends or family?
Conscious efforts to cut down/quit
Have you tried or failed to distance yourself from the substance/activity in the past?
Dependence
Do you need to engage with the substance or activity to function "normally"? Do you suffer mental or physical symptoms as a result of withdrawal?
We're here to help
If the answer to one or more of these is yes, then you should consider speaking to Student Support.
Their advisors can direct you to the most appropriate support service for your specific needs. If necessary they can help you apply for intermission during the recovery process.
Are you supporting a friend through addiction?
If someone you know is struggling, the most important thing you can do is reassure them that it's OK to seek help and support them in finding out what services are available locally when they're ready.
When supporting them...
Listen to them
Sometimes just lending an ear can help someone's state of mind
Ask what they need
Instead of assuming, ask questions like, "What do you need right now?" or "Is there anything I can do to help?". This consideration can go a long way in making a friend feel cared about.
(Little gestures such as a glass of water, a cup of tea, a snack, or some words of affirmation can also make a friend feel less alone if they are struggling.)
Validate their feelings
Let them know you acknowledge their feelings and struggles without necessarily agreeing or disagreeing with them. Statements like, "That sounds really difficult," can be helpful.
Stay calm
Speaking gently and keeping your body language relaxed can help your friend feel safer and calmer.
Suggest professional help
Encourage your friend to talk to a mental health professional, and offer to help them find resources or go to their first appointment.
Help them contact someone
Ask if there's another trusted person they'd like you to contact, like a family member or doctor.
Keep social contact
Continue to include them in normal, fun activities when appropriate to combat isolation and reinforce that they are valued and cared about.
Resources you may find useful:
Helplines
Mind - mental health support - call 0300 330 5488
Citizens Advice - legal issues call 0800 144 8848
Norfolk MAP - advice and support call 0800 0744454
The Matthew Project - drug and alcohol issues call 01603 626123
Change Grow Live - drug and alcohol advice call 01603 514096
Mental Health Foundation
Student Minds
Supporting a friend I Student Minds
Mental Health Support – For UK University Students | Student Minds
Happiful
Spot the signs of an unhealthy relationship with alcohol
4 Signs to spot alcohol addiction
5 Ways to Lower How Much You Drink Throughout the Week
6 Ways To Cut Back on Drinking
How To Talk To A Friend About Their Drinking
How to support your friends whilst looking after your own mental health:
Whilst you can empathize with a friend’s situation, you can only provide a certain level of support when you are not a trained professional. Therefore, it may be useful to signpost them to professional services either within or outside of University. Supporting a friend can also be emotionally demanding, so it's important to look after your own wellbeing and seek support if you need it.
To look after yourself...
Practice empathy with detachment
Empathize with your friend's situation without becoming completely absorbed in their emotional state.
Monitor for compassion fatigue
Pay attention to signs like irritability, emotional exhaustion, or a reduced sense of empathy in yourself. This may be a sign you need to take a step back and make your own self-care a priority. Rest and do things you enjoy to recharge.
Build your own support network
Don't be afraid to lean on your own support system. Being the supportive friend doesn't mean you can't receive support yourself.
