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
For support with your use of alcohol, visit the Middlesbrough Alcohol Centre of Excellence (MACE). You can drop in between 1pm and 3pm, Monday to Friday, to talk about the help you need.
Address: Middlesbrough Alcohol Centre of Excellence (MACE), Ayresome Green Lane, Middlesbrough, TS5 5BA.
For support with your use of cocaine, cannabis, or tablets, visit the Live Well Centre. You can drop in between 1pm and 3pm, Monday to Friday, for an assessment.
Address: The Live Well Centre, Dundas House, Dundas Street, Middlesbrough, TS1 1HR.
For support with your use of heroin or any other opiate, visit Foundations medical practice. You can drop in between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday, to talk about the help you need.
Address: Acklam Road, Middlesbrough, TS5 4EQ.
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.