Drug addiction: getting help

Negative effects of drug misuse/ addiction include:

• Family or household breakdown
• Strained or ruined relationships
• Job loss and unemployment
• Legal problems, including arrest and imprisonment
• Financial problems
• Homelessness
• Suicidal thoughts and behaviours 

Long-term impact on health

Alcohol and drug addictions are associated with a wide range of long-term physical consequences, which can even result in death. These include:

• Liver damage
• High blood pressure, stroke, and other heart problems
• Problems in brain function
• Pancreatitis
• Gout
• Ulcers
• Sexual dysfunction
• Kidney failure
• Weakened immune system
• Increased risk of different types of cancer

Most of these conditions can be treated. The crucial first step is to seek help from a professional for your addiction.