Alcohol Awareness
Realising you have a problem with alcohol is the first big step to getting help
You may need help if:
- you often feel the need to have a drink
- you get into trouble because of your drinking
- other people warn you about how much you're drinking
- you think your drinking is causing you problems
If you're worried about your drinking, speak to someone close to you and contact your GP or local alcohol service and get the support you deserve.
Withdrawal symptoms information
It can be very dangerous to stop drinking suddenly if you're dependent on alcohol. If you get withdrawal symptoms, get medical help before you try to stop drinking.
But you can still take control of your drinking. Talk to a GP or your local community alcohol service who will be able to get help for you to reduce your drinking safely.
Services and support
A good place to start is with a GP. Try to be accurate and honest about how much you drink and any problems it may be causing you.
If you have become dependent on alcohol, you will have found it difficult to fully control your drinking in some way. So you'll probably need some help either to cut down and control your drinking or stop completely, and also some plans to maintain the improvement after that.
The GP may suggest different types of assessment and support options available to you, such as from local community alcohol services. You can also ask about any free local support groups and other alcohol counselling that may suit you.
Via - Kingston Wellbeing Service
The Kingston Wellbeing Service offers free and confidential support to people in Kingston aged 18+ affected by drug and alcohol use.
Services available include:
- One-to-one support & treatment
- Alcohol screening and assessment
- Access to prescribing appointments
- Assessment and preparation for detox and residential rehab
- Advice about your health and wellbeing
- Regular sessions with your personal keyworker
- A range of different support groups
- Integrated Offender Management (IOM) programme
- Assessment and referral for mental health issues
Website: Via - Kingston Wellbeing Service
ASCA
ASCA is a registered charity that offers general counselling as well as for people with concerns around their substance use and their families. Although based in Richmond clients do not need to reside in the borough to refer themselves.
Website: ASCA
Young People's Substance Misuse Service
The Young People’s Substance Misuse Service consists of a range of substance misuse specialists from different agencies, working together to provide a comprehensive drug and alcohol service for young people in Kingston.
The service works with young people aged 18 years and under, and/or their families, who are affected by a young person’s substance use. A range of interventions are available including ongoing one-to-one support, group work, family work and school based work. Specialist interventions are aimed at reducing drug and alcohol related harm and involve the young person in all aspects of their care.
