If you're worried about your use of alcohol or drugs, you're not alone, and support is available.
Substance use can affect your physical health, mental wellbeing, relationships, and studies, but small changes can make a big difference.
If you're considering cutting down or stopping, it's important to seek support, particularly if you've been using substances regularly, as withdrawal can sometimes require medical supervision.
Self-help resources
- NHS – Alcohol support – support and useful contacts for alcohol addiction.
- NHS – drug addiction: getting help – advice on where to get drug addiction treatment.
- Talk to FRANK – information, advice and support about drugs.
- Forward Leeds – free confidential drug and alcohol support in Leeds.
Videos
- Talk to FRANK YouTube channel - drug education and harm reduction information.
- TED Talk – Everything You Think You Know About Addiction Is Wrong – Johan Hari discusses connection, addiction and recovery.
Books
- ‘The unexpected joy of being sober’, Catherine Gray - an exploration of Catherine's journey from alcohol addiction to sobriety.
- ‘In the realm of hungry ghosts’, Gabor Maté - a blend of first-person accounts, case-studies and research into addiction.
- ‘Alcohol explained’, William Porter - a guide to alcohol and alcoholism.
Support from the University
We’re a ‘harm reduction’ University. We don’t condone the use of illegal drugs or the misuse of prescription drugs or alcohol at the University of Leeds. But we understand that some students may choose to take drugs or drink alcohol during their time at Leeds.
Our harm reduction stance means we’re committed to reducing harm by offering the resources, education, specialist support, and advice you need to stay safe, make informed choices, and succeed – at Leeds and in your future.
- Complete the self-referral form to talk to the University’s Student Wellbeing Service about your use of alcohol or drugs.