ABSTRACT
There is a growing public and political awareness of the extent of drug and alcohol use.1 It is recognised that a substantial or significant number of people at work will be experiencing drug-and/or alcohol-related problems.2 Problems with alcohol and drugs are suffered by people in varying degrees, ranging from occasional excess consumption to an addiction or dependence, which may affect the person and their whole lifestyle. Patients often progress from mild misuse of alcohol and other drugs to more extreme stages so it is important to try to address any problem at an early stage, seeking medical assistance where necessary. There are different reasons why individuals seek help. It could be as a result of a perceived change in one’s own personal circumstances and/or due to influence by family or a significant other.
