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Self help options

Self help options

Will I have withdrawals if I reduce or don’t use?

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The fear of experiencing unpleasant feelings can be a big barrier for young people trying to reduce or better manage their use.

Exactly what you will experience when you reduce your use or don’t use for a while will depend on what you use, how much, how often and in what ways you use. Why you use, (or how your drug use helps you) is also important.

For example if you use cannabis to deal with stress and tension then without cannabis these things may feel like they increase until you try out other strategies.

Some young people have no trouble reducing or stopping their drug use and even experience better moods and have more energy. Other people find it more difficult-with less energy and more emotional problems like anxiety and trouble sleeping.

Some young people have no trouble reducing or stopping their drug use

It can be difficult to tell whether what you experience is a result of withdrawal symptoms from a particular drug or because of the changes you are making to your lifestyle and routine. Regardless, there are things you can do do to make both easier.

Need to know more? Talk to YoDAA if you want more help understanding what you might experience if you reduce of stop using.

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.

Further Reading

Setting a goal for your drug use

Staying as safe as you can

What will not using or reducing my use feel like?

Looking after yourself when you’re using

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