Some people who use drugs or alcohol can develop a dependence (addiction). People who are dealing with addiction will usually:
- feel a need for the substance (alcohol or drug) regularly
- have a constant supply of the substance
- have tried and failed to stop using the substance
- do things they normally would not do (for example, stealing money to pay for the substance)
Get help
If you're struggling to cope with your drug or alcohol use, or you know someone who is, we can help. We provide a wide range of support including prescribing, psychosocial interventions, counselling, and recovery support.
If you need help, you can refer yourself to our service. We also accept referrals from family members, carers, and professionals, as long as they have your consent. The service is open to both young people and adults.
Our team is made up of experienced staff, volunteers, and peer mentors, with some in recovery themselves. We provide group sessions and one-to-one support across Middlesbrough.
Get help by phone
You can contact us on 01642 726800 for support.
Get help in person
Help with opiates
You can get help with heroin, methadone, buprenorphine (Subutex), or any other opiate like codeine, at Foundations.
Address: Foundations medical practice, Acklam Road, Middlesbrough, TS5 4EQ.
Opening times: 9am and 4:30pm, Monday to Friday
Help with alcohol or non-opiate drugs
You can get help with alcohol, cocaine, crack, or any other non-opiate medication like pregabalin or zopiclone, at the MACE.
Address: Middlesbrough Alcohol Centre of Excellence (MACE), Ayresome Green Lane, Middlesbrough, TS5 5BA.
Opening times: 1pm and 2:30pm, Monday to Friday
Self help
You can visit the alcohol and drugs support hub for self help guidance. The website includes exercises which will help you look at your current alcohol and drug usage, and the changes you could make.
If you're affected by someone else's substance use
Branches is a local support group which offers support to people affected by a loved one’s drug or alcohol use. It gives you the chance to talk to others who are experiencing, or have experienced, feelings similar to your own. The group is run by volunteers so they can't give professional help (like counselling), but they can point you in the right direction depending on your needs. To find out more, email branchescarers@outlook.com.
The Mind website also has a list of charities which support the friends and family of a person dealing with addiction.