Supporting communities to combat drug misuse and abuse

Meta is working to address the harms of illicit drugs, focusing on partnering with organisations to increase awareness and education, combatting drug trafficking online and cooperating with our partners in law enforcement.

We have rules against content that promotes or facilitates the use of non-medical and high-risk drugs. We encourage anyone who sees content that they think breaks our rules to report it. When we become aware of this content, we work to take action.

Below are resources for those seeking help and information on substance use prevention and recovery, created in collaboration with the Partnership to End Addiction and Song for Charlie. Learn more about our approach to the opioid epidemic here .

Developed by Partnership to End Addiction and adapted by Meta, these help resources are for anyone seeking support related to substance misuse.

When should you reach out for help?

Families may be unsure as to when to reach out for help. You are the expert on your loved one so trust your instincts and what others are telling you about your loved one. The criteria from the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) used by mental health professionals to diagnose substance use problems may help you.

• Using more than intended
• Wanting to cut back or quit but unable to
• Spending time getting, using and recovering from substance use
• Experiencing intense cravings or desire to use
• Not handling responsibilities at school, work or at home
• Giving up interests, hobbies and enjoyable activities
• Experiencing relationship problems
• Using in dangerous situations such as driving
• Worsening physical and mental health problems
• Needing more to get the same effect (tolerance)
• Feeling sick when not using (withdrawal symptoms)

If the answer is yes to two or more of these, it's time to reach out for help.

How do I find quality treatment?

• Talk: Have you talked to your loved one about their substance use and the need for help? Remember these helpful tips for having the conversation:
• Carefully plan the conversation and have treatment options available, if possible.
• Even if your loved one flatly refuses treatment, consider healthy alternatives (e.g. rock climbing, music lessons, yoga, meditation etc.) as a way to move them towards wellness. You may also wish to consider harm reduction measures.
• Always call local authorities if there is an emergency situation (e.g. an overdose or escalating aggression) and be familiar with your community's resources to help, such as a mobile crisis unit.
• Explore: Educate yourself on the options for treatment in your area; these often include counselling, outpatient and inpatient programmes, support groups, peer recovery specialists, medications to manage cravings and more. Not all care is quality or reputable, so it's important that you do your research on the treatment centre.
• Evaluate: The next step is to get an evaluation with a healthcare professional trained in addiction if available in your area. They can help you understand the extent of the problem and advise you on the right level of care. Most people do not need rehab.
• Programmes: Use treatment locator services or government websites to find a programme that meets your loved one's specific needs. Call programmes to verify that they have openings, ask questions and ensure that they can provide the care that your loved one requires.
• Treatment: Participate in family counselling and educational programmes if available. Your encouragement and support can really make a difference.

How to suggest treatment

Families may feel anxious when it comes to suggesting treatment, especially if a loved one isn't motivated. Here are some actions you can take that can help make the conversation easier.

• Plan and prepare:
• Understand your loved one's point of view. How do they think about the pros and cons of treatment?
• Research treatment options and provide choices.
• Communication strategies:
• Use topics related to their interests. Talk about what they might gain from treatment (e.g. feeling less depressed or anxious, being able to sleep better).
• Reflect on past attempts and adjust your approach. What did they like or dislike about past treatment?
• Practise the conversation.
• Change talk and incentives:
  
• Listen for indications of a desire for change (I want a better job, I don't like feeling this way, I wish I had more money etc.).
• Use incentives to go to treatment or leverage carefully and lovingly.

What if my loved one refuses treatment?

Many people may be unwilling or unable to get help for various reasons. If that is the case, try suggesting ways to reduce the risks of their substance use.

We ask people who are drinking to use a designated driver to keep everyone on the road safe. Reducing risks can be extended to other substances. For example, having naloxone on hand to reverse an overdose, not mixing substances, using clean needles and other supplies, and never using substances alone are other ways to reduce risks.

The benefits include:

• Fewer overdoses and deaths
• Decreased spread of diseases and infections
• Greater access to education, counselling and treatment
• Lower healthcare costs
• Less stigma