Alcohol and other drugs

Two men sitting on stairway having a serious conversation

The consumption of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs is a major cause of preventable disease and illness. Short-term use can increase the risk of accidents, injuries and violent behaviour. While long-term medical complications that can arise are those such as liver disease and mental health disorders. Fortunately, help is available through your GP or via support services listed on this page.

Referrals and advice

Information and resources

Related services

  • The Orange Door is free service for adults, young people and children that have or are experiencing family violence. With in person services available in Bendigo, Echuca, Swan Hill, Mildura, Shepparton, Wangaratta and Wodonga.
  • 1800RESPECT is available 24/7 to support people impacted by domestic, family or sexual violence. Call 1800 737 732
  • Lifeline for 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services. Call 13 11 14
  • Beyond Blue for 24/7 brief counselling. Call 1300 22 4636
  • MensLine Australia is a free 24/7 telephone and online counselling service for men. Call 1300 78 99 79
  • Kids Helpline is a 24/7 online and phone counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25. Call 1800 551 800

Last Update: May 24th, 2024

Murray PHN acknowledges its catchment crosses over many unceded First Nations Countries, following the Dhelkunya Yaluk (Healing River).

We pay our respects and give thanks to the Ancestors, Elders and Young people for their nurturing, protection and caregiving of these sacred lands and waterways, acknowledging their continuing cultural, spiritual and educational practices.

We are grateful for the sharing of Country and the renewal that Country gives us. We acknowledge and express our sorrow that this sharing has come at a personal, spiritual and cultural cost to the wellbeing of First Nations peoples. We commit to addressing the injustices of colonisation across our catchment, and to listening to the wisdom of First Nations communities who hold the knowledge to enable healing. We extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.