There is no single amount or frequency that tells us everything about someone's substance use.
It may be worth talking to somebody if you notice that:
- you use more than you intended;
- you need more of a substance to get the same effect;
- you think about using frequently;
- you find it difficult to cut down;
- you use to avoid feeling unwell;
- your use has increased;
- you regularly use more than one substance;
- you use alone and worry about what would happen if something went wrong;
- you have experienced blackouts, loss of consciousness or overdose;
- your mood or anxiety is getting worse;
- you are missing teaching or placement;
- your relationships or finances are affected;
- you are taking increasing risks;
- you continue to use even though you know it is causing harm.
You do not have to recognise all of these things for support to be appropriate.