Confidential help for yourself or a family member
If you are struggling with alcohol or drug use, or are affected by someone else’s substance use, there are several local organisations in Northern Ireland that you can contact directly for help.
1. Immediate Support and Helplines
If you are in distress or need to speak to someone right now:
- Lifeline (24/7 Crisis Line): 0808 808 8000 (Free from all NI landlines and mobiles)
- Emergency Services: Call 999 if there is an immediate risk of overdose or medical emergency.
2. Local Self-Referral Services
These organisations offer one-to-one counseling, harm reduction, and treatment without needing a referral from this GP practice.
| Service Name | Best For… | Contact Details |
|---|---|---|
| ASCERT | Adults & Young People across NI | 0800 254 5123 / ascert.biz |
| Inspire Addiction | Counseling & Therapeutic Support | 028 9066 4434 / inspirewellbeing.org |
| Dunlewey Service | Addiction & Gambling Support | 028 9039 2547 / dunlewey.org |
| DAISY (Youth) | Under 25s (Drugs & Alcohol) | 028 9043 5815 (Belfast/SE) |
| Simon Community | Low Threshold/Outreach Support | Self-Referral Form |
3. Support for Family Members
You do not need the person misusing substances to be in treatment for you to get help.
- Al-Anon: For families and friends of alcoholics. 028 9068 2368
- Steps to Cope: Support for young people (11–18) living with parental substance misuse. stepstocope.co.uk
- ASCERT Family Support: Dedicated therapeutic sessions for adult family members.
5. Find Services Near You
For a full directory of every community and statutory service in your specific postcode, visit the official Drugs and Alcohol NI site: Search the NI Services Directory →