Talk to a GP about drinking
GPs near you with training in alcohol, booked at the clinic where they already work. No labels, no judgement, and nobody else needs to know.
Also called: alcohol use disorder.
We're adding GPs for help with drinking
We list a GP here only once we can show the training behind it. Until then, any GP can start the conversation.
Read first
Plain answers in everyday words. General information, not medical advice. Read as much or as little as you like.
In short
- Most people who talk to a GP about drinking are not dependent on alcohol. They have noticed it creeping up and want a plan.
- A GP can help you cut down or stop safely, with or without medicine, and keep looking after the rest of your health.
- Stopping suddenly after heavy daily drinking can be dangerous. Talk to a doctor first.
Understanding drinking
How much is too much?What Australia's alcohol guidelines say, what a standard drink looks like, and signs it may be worth talking to a GP.What a GP can doWhat happens when you talk to a GP about drinking, what to say if you don't know how to start, and how follow-up works.Cutting down or stoppingWhether to cut down or stop, why stopping suddenly after heavy daily drinking can be dangerous, and how to do it safely.Support beyond the GP
Counselling and supportCounselling, phone and online help, peer support groups, public drug and alcohol services and rehab, including where to start in the Illawarra.Worried about someoneHow to raise it with someone you care about, what tends to make things harder, what to do if they're not ready, and how to look after yourself.Privacy and costWhat a GP visit about drinking costs, how Medicare and bulk billing work, what goes on your record, and how to control My Health Record.Questions people ask
Do I need to be an alcoholic to see one of these GPs?
No. Most people who talk to a GP about drinking are not dependent on alcohol. They have noticed it creeping up and want a plan. Any amount is a fine reason to book.
Will it go on my record?
Your GP keeps notes like any other visit, and they are private to you and your doctor. The booking just says GP appointment. Nobody else is told.
What happens at the first visit?
A normal GP appointment. You talk about what is going on, as much or as little as you want. Together you work out what you want to change, and what support would help.
Do these GPs prescribe medicine for drinking?
Some do, when it suits the person. Your GP will talk you through the options, including ones that are not medicine. Our guide to medicines for drinking explains what each one does.
Can I see the same GP for everything else?
Yes. Every doctor listed is a GP first. Come for anything, and keep seeing them after the first visit.
How are these doctors checked?
Every doctor on Satchel is registered with Ahpra and we check the public register before the tick appears. Each special interest shows the training or experience behind it. Nobody pays to be listed or to rank higher.