Urgent help
Home›Start here›I’m worried about my use or behaviour
Guided pathway

I’m worried about my use or behaviour

If something feels different, harder to control or more costly than it used to, that is enough reason to look more closely.

Guided pathwayNo diagnosis needed
Updated6 October 2026
Reading timeAbout 1 min
EvidenceNHS / NICE anchored
Clinical reviewPending
Key point
Ask whether alcohol, drugs, medicines, gambling or another behaviour is becoming harder to control, taking more time or money, affecting health or relationships, or continuing despite consequences.

You can use the sections below to go deeper, or jump using “On this page”.

Notice the pattern, not just the amount

Ask whether alcohol, drugs, medicines, gambling or another behaviour is becoming harder to control, taking more time or money, affecting health or relationships, or continuing despite consequences.

Today

Write down what concerns you

Frequency, loss of control, consequences, cravings, secrecy, withdrawal symptoms or repeated failed attempts to change.

Next

Check safety

If reducing alcohol or sedatives causes withdrawal symptoms, seek medical advice before stopping suddenly.

Then

Choose support

You can speak to a GP, local addiction service or appropriate private clinician even if you are uncertain about diagnosis.

You do not need to prove that things are “bad enough” before asking for help.

Explore common signs → Find help →

Where next?

Turn information into a next step.

You do not have to work out the whole plan at once. Start with the option closest to your situation.

Choose your next step →