Heaps of young people make changes to how they use without stopping completely. Completely stopping your use may be unrealistic and daunting.
The goal for lots of young people is to feel more in control of their drug or alcohol use. When quitting isn’t an option, here are some tips to cut down or reduce.
- Plan drug free days or set limits on number of days a week to use
- Set limits on the amount you use per day (e.g. never more than x amount per day)
- Set limits on the time of day you use (e.g. only after midday)
- Delay the first time you use for the day for as long as possible.
- Put away using equipment when you are not using
- Keep a record of how much and how often you are using so things don’t get away from you without noticing.
- Try to replace a session or particular drug use time with a specific alternative activity.
- Only prepare or buy a small amount of what you are using at a time.
- Don’t carry too much cash or your ATM card.
These are general tips. You can always seek personal advice if you are planning to stop your use. You should also get medical advice if you are planning to stop or significantly reduce your use of benzos, GHB or alcohol. Stopping using these can sometimes lead to potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms. Please seek medical advice if you are stopping benzo’s, GHB or alcohol.
YoDAA website drug fact GHB, Alcohol and Benzo’s
Please see further reading from Australian drug foundation website for more information regarding GHB, Benzo’s or alcohol.
It takes courage to change. Remember you are not alone & other young people have been in your shoes.
Get help now
YoDAA is a free and confidential online and phone service that offers supports to young people, families and professionals. You can contact 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday.
