What is withdrawal?

Withdrawal is the process of giving your body and mind time and space to adjust to life without a substance, whether you're cutting back or stopping altogether. It can feel uncomfortable, and for some substances (alcohol and benzodiazepines in particular) it can be dangerous without medical support. That's why it's usually done with some kind of care around you, and why talking to a health professional first is a good idea. There's no single right way to do it. The best path is the one that works for you.

Before you start: the practical stuff

It helps to think through the everyday things that might need a plan:

• Study, work and carer or family commitments. Who needs to know, and what might need to shift?
• Centrelink requirements. Check what you need to do to keep payments on track.
• Your home environment and living arrangements. Is it a calm, safe place to be while your body adjusts?
• Your people. Letting a friend, family member or partner know what you're planning can make a big difference. You don't have to do this alone.
• Your pets. Worrying about a pet is one of the biggest things that stops people from getting support. If you're heading into detox or rehab, there are services that can help.

Help with pets, around Australia

A good national overview is at Pets of the Homeless. Some options by state (check each service for current eligibility, costs and availability):

• Victoria:Lort Smith Emergency Welfare Assistance offers short-term accommodation and foster care for pets of people in crisis, though places are limited and you'll need an appointed case worker (03 9287 6433). Also see Second Chance Animal Rescue (9357 0834) and Pets of the Homeless (0487 222 290).
• Queensland:AWLQ Emergency Boarding offers free two-week boarding by referral from a support worker, agency or hospital. RSPCA Queensland offers paid boarding at several centres.
• South Australia:Safe Pets Safe Families provides emergency foster care for up to 12 weeks for a small weekly contribution. The Animal Welfare League SA offers paid boarding.
• Tasmania:Dogs' Homes of Tasmania offers boarding at Devonport and Burnie. Ask them about costs.
• ACT:RSPCA ACT Tango's Place offers paid cat boarding.
• Western Australia:Cat Haven in Perth offers paid cat boarding.
• Northern Territory:RSPCA NT points to PetCloud, where you can find trusted pet sitters.
• New South Wales:Paws and Recover charges a nominal fee for foster care and in-home feeding.

Start with a conversation

A GP is a great first step. They can help you understand what symptoms to expect with the substance(s) you use and how to prepare for them. If your first GP doesn't feel like the right fit, it's okay to try another. Finding someone you feel comfortable talking to can make a real difference. Some GPs are more experienced with alcohol and other drug use than others, and you deserve someone who listens without judgement.

You can find GPs near you, including bulk-billing clinics, at Healthdirect.

If you can't take time off work, or you live a long way from a town or city, GP guidance combined with other supports can still be an option. Many people are in that situation.

The different ways to withdraw

Home-based withdrawal

Also called non-residential withdrawal, this involves receiving withdrawal support while staying at home, often with guidance from a nurse through home visits or phone check-ins. A GP and access to a pharmacy are usually part of the picture. Not every service offers it, so it's worth asking. Windana's Detox at Home is a good example of how it works.

Residential detox

A short stay in a supported facility where staff can monitor you and help manage symptoms. This can be a good choice if you're withdrawing from substances that carry higher medical risks, or if home isn't a safe or calm place right now.

Day rehab

Structured programs during the day, with counselling, groups and practical support, while you sleep at home. It can suit people who have a stable home and want daily support without staying somewhere else.

Residential rehab

Live-in programs that give you time and distance from everyday triggers, with counselling, routine and peer support. Stays are usually longer than detox, and many people go on to rehab after withdrawing.

Learning about your specific substance

Every substance is different, and so is every body. The Australian Drug Foundation has plain-language information on specific substances, what withdrawal can look like, and where to find support.

If you're under 18, or in your early twenties

There are youth-specific alcohol and other drug services that offer withdrawal support and rehab, and they understand the pressures of being young. The ADF website can point you to services in your state.

One last thing

Deciding to make change is a big step. Be gentle with yourself. You can take this one small step at a time, and you don't have to do it alone.

Looking for support?

If you'd like to talk to someone right now, you can access free, confidential, 24/7 online counselling and support by chatting to one of our qualified counsellors or connect with others who understand what you are going through on our community forum.

Alternatively, you can call the free and confidential National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015 to connect you with services in your state.