Support during the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak

We understand that many people in our community are feeling anxious about the spread of COVID-19. We’ve compiled some resources to help you with any problems or concerns you may be experiencing.

Remember if you need support our counsellors are available on webchat 24/7, or you can call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline 1800 250 015 to speak to someone in your state.

Last Updated 26 March 2020

COVID-19

There is a lot of information about this virus and it is difficult to work out what is real and what is not. We suggest you minimise the sources of information to help you keep a clear view of the situation, the Commonwealth and State Government websites are solid places to start.

Harm minimisation

As always we know practising harm minimisation e.g. using sterile equipment, managing dose etc. reduces the associated risks for people who use drugs and drink alcohol. With the increased risks presented by COVID-19 (it greatly affects respiratory function) it is additionally important that you look after yourself.

We asked an expert to share some tips for harm minimisation during the coronavirus.

Read more

You can find useful tips and advice from local harm minimisation services below:

Self-isolation, quarantine or lockdown

It’s understandable that many people want to prepare for the possibility of being cooped up in their homes for long periods. We know people are self-isolating due to:

  • Recent overseas travel
  • Being in contact with people who have the virus
  • Are awaiting their own test results
  • Or have the virus themselves

Additionally, people are concerned about the reality that Australian cities are being ‘locked down’, as has happened in parts of Europe. 

You can find more up-to-date information on your states current lockdown status here:

Withdrawal or detox

For people who regularly use (or are trying not to use) alcohol and other drugs isolation may present unique challenges.

People who use substances may find that they experience symptoms of withdrawal if they stop suddenly. Withdrawal can be dangerous, if you are concerned about you or someone else, contact your GP or chat to one of our counsellors.

Here are some sites with excellent resources to help you learn more:

General

Alcohol

Opiates

Ice

Overdose

We know during times of great stress and upheaval drug use can increase, this means the risk of overdose can also increase. Take care of yourself and those close to you, if you are in a situation where someone is overdosing, try to remain calm, call 000 – emergency services are there to help.

General

Heroin and other opioids

Heroin and other opioids are responsible for more than half of the fatal overdoses in Australia each year. The majority of these overdoses are unintentional. Learn about the symptoms to watch out for.

Naloxone is an opioid-inhibitor that is frequently used to reverse overdoses, and is becoming more widely available throughout Australia. It’s a good idea to arrange to get some naloxone now, just to have on hand.

Helplines

  • 1800Respect offers support related to sexual assault, family or intimate partner violence.
  • SANE Australia offers counselling and support for people experiencing or caring for mental illness.
  • Suicide Callback Service also offers 24-hour telephone and online counselling for people concerned about suicide.
  • Lifeline 13 11 14 offers 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention counselling.
  • Gambling Help Online offers 24-hour telephone and online counselling for people who are affected by gambling.
  • National Debt Helpline is a telephone line available Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm to discuss any problems related to debt.
  • Headspace offer an online and telephone counselling service for young people 12–25 who are concerned about mental health issues.
  • Kids Helpline is a free helpline for young people 5–25 to confidentially discuss any problem.
  • QLife offers a free counselling and referral service for LGBTQIA+ people experiencing any issue that may affect their health and wellbeing. Available 3:00 pm to 12:00 am.