Substance misuse
It’s important to recognise how complex and far-reaching the effects of substance misuse and addictions can be — whether you're personally struggling with it or being impacted by someone else's behaviour. With extensive experience in the field of addictions, I bring in-depth clinical knowledge and compassionate understanding to support you in navigating these challenges.
What is substance misuse?
Substance misuse refers to the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and drugs. It includes using substances in a way that is not recommended medically or socially, often leading to significant physical, emotional, and psychological consequences. This misuse can be overt or subtle — it is not always immediately visible. Many people conceal their substance use due to shame, stigma, or denial, making it difficult to identify and even harder to talk about.
How might substance misuse be affecting you?
You may be affected in one of two key ways:
• Your own relationship with substances: you may be questioning your alcohol or drug use, noticing patterns that are interfering with your work, relationships, health, or self-esteem.
• Someone else's substance misuse: A partner, parent, friend, or colleague may be using substances in ways that are unpredictable, harmful, or emotionally destabilising for you. Living with or caring about someone with an addiction can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, confusion, and even trauma.
Whether direct or indirect, the impact of substance misuse can deeply influence how you feel, think, and behave — often without you realising the full extent of it.
How CBT can help
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective, evidence-based approach for addressing substance misuse and its ripple effects. It can help you:
• Understand the underlying thought patterns and emotional triggers linked to your (or another’s) substance use.
• Break unhelpful cycles of behaviour that may be keeping you stuck.
• Identify and challenge beliefs that contribute to denial, guilt, or hopelessness.
• Develop practical tools to deal with cravings, stress, or difficult emotions without relying on substances.
• Set healthy boundaries and improve communication if you're being affected by someone else’s behaviour.
• Rebuild your sense of self, regain control, and create lasting, values-led change with integrity.
Jane Rowland CBT will provide a safe, confidential space where you can explore these issues without judgment — whether you are just beginning to question things, are in active recovery, or are trying to support someone else.
Facing these challenges takes courage, but you don’t have to do it alone. With the right support and strategies, meaningful change is absolutely possible.
Take the first step today
If you're ready to explore how substance misuse may be impacting your life — either your own or someone else’s — and want to make changes that align with your values and goals, CBT can offer a clear, compassionate, and structured way forward. Get in touch with me here.