Substance Abuse Screening

Supporting Your Health Through Early Detection and Compassionate Care

Drug, Alcohol & Smoking Screening at Flagstone Family Practice

Substance use can affect anyone, regardless of age or background. While occasional alcohol consumption or smoking may seem manageable, ongoing or excessive use can have significant effects on your physical health, mental wellbeing, relationships, and quality of life.

At Flagstone Family Practice, we provide confidential, respectful, and non-judgemental screening for alcohol, tobacco, vaping, and other drug use. Our experienced GPs work with you to identify potential concerns early, offer practical support, and develop personalised treatment plans that fit your goals and circumstances.

Whether you're concerned about your own substance use or supporting someone you care about, we're here to help.

Why Substance Abuse Screening Matters

Routine screening helps identify unhealthy substance use before it leads to more serious health problems.

Early screening can help:

• Detect harmful alcohol, tobacco, vaping, or drug use before dependence develops.

• Reduce the risk of chronic conditions such as liver disease, heart disease, lung disease, and stroke.

• Identify mental health concerns that may be linked to substance use, including anxiety and depression.

• Provide early intervention and personalised support.

• Improve long-term health, wellbeing, and quality of life.

Common Substance Use Concerns in Australia

Alcohol

Excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of liver disease, high blood pressure, certain cancers, mental health conditions, and accidental injuries.

Smoking & Vaping

Smoking remains one of Australia's leading preventable causes of illness and death, while vaping also carries health risks that continue to be studied. Both nicotine addiction and long-term use can affect heart and lung health.

Illicit & Prescription Drug Misuse

Misuse of substances such as cannabis, methamphetamine (ice), cocaine, opioids, and some prescription medications can affect physical health, mental wellbeing, relationships, employment, and daily functioning.

How We Screen for Substance Use

Our GPs use evidence-based screening tools alongside a confidential discussion about your health and lifestyle.

Assessment may include:

• AUDIT – Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test

• CAGE Questionnaire – Screening for alcohol dependence

• DUDIT – Drug Use Disorders Identification Test

• Fagerström Test – Assessment of nicotine dependence

• Comprehensive Medical & Mental Health Assessment – Evaluating the impact of substance use on your overall health

All discussions remain private and confidential.

How Flagstone Family Practice Can Help

If screening identifies concerns, our team will work with you to develop a personalised care plan.

Our services include:

• Confidential assessments and health checks

• Personalised treatment plans

• Smoking and vaping cessation support

• Alcohol reduction strategies

• Counselling and behavioural support

• Medication-assisted treatment where appropriate

• Mental health assessment and support

• Referrals to addiction specialists, psychologists, rehabilitation services, and community support programs

• Ongoing monitoring and follow-up care

You're Not Alone

Seeking help for substance use can feel overwhelming, but it's an important first step towards improving your health. Our team provides compassionate, judgement-free care in a safe and supportive environment, helping you make positive changes at your own pace.

Book a Confidential Screening

Whether you're worried about alcohol, smoking, vaping, prescription medication, or other drug use, early support can make a significant difference.

Book an appointment with Flagstone Family Practice today for a confidential substance abuse screening and personalised care plan to support your long-term health and wellbeing.

Book Now