Visit A Drug And Alcohol Rehab Clinic In London
If you are struggling to regain control over your addiction, please remember you are not alone in this battle. In London, an estimated 280,000 people are currently dependent on alcohol. Drug prevalence has also seen a rise across the capital, with the consumption of cocaine rising year on year due to its growing accessibility.
The best and most effective way to reclaim your life from drug and alcohol addiction is to seek professional help and visit a rehabilitation centre for treatment. In London, you have plenty of options from free outpatient services to professional residential rehab placements.
Find out more about our services by calling a member of our team at 03301 596 494.
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Choosing Drug and Alcohol Treatment in London
At Rehab Clinics Group, we understand that coming to terms with the fact that you may need help for addiction is hard. But a positive thought to hold on to when starting your recovery journey is that there are a number of options when it comes to drug and alcohol addiction treatment. Finding the best and most appropriate type of treatment for you will help you achieve the breakthrough you need.
Outpatient and inpatient treatment programmes are both viable methods of addiction support in London. You will need to decide which one may be more beneficial to you and your circumstances.
To make your decision easier, we will explain both options in more detail below.
Outpatient Treatment In London
Outpatient treatment is when an individual seeks addiction treatment without staying at a residential rehab clinic. What this means is that the person receiving support continues to stay at home and maintain their day-to-day responsibilities whilst also accessing professional help from care providers and support groups.
This method of addiction treatment is best suited to those who are not struggling with severe addiction and require a flexible treatment approach. This could be for many reasons, such as being responsible for children or not being able to leave work commitments behind temporarily. It gives you the freedom to choose when you access treatment to as certain extent and you are not required to stay in a rehab facility for a duration of time.
The biggest problem with outpatient addiction treatment is that it is not as intensive as inpatient care and requires significant willpower. Sometimes, we must leave our environments to start afresh, which may not be possible with outpatient treatment. If you have not built up a strong resilience to the temptation, you could find yourself relapsing easier compared to people who stay in a treatment centre as an inpatient.
Inpatient Treatment in London
Inpatient treatment involves staying at a drug and alcohol rehab clinic for a set duration, where individuals follow a comprehensive treatment programme. This is a very supportive environment with 24-hour care available.
Residential addiction treatment programmes are set across a minimum of 14 to 28 days, with longer stays of up to 8+ weeks also available.
Depending on the rehab clinic, some may offer a more clinical setting, whereas others may offer a more comfortable, home away from home environment. However, one common theme found with all reputable private rehab centres is that they are designed to be safe, private and focused on achieving recovery progress.
Inpatient rehab clinics are also equipped to treat all types of addiction, whether that be drug, alcohol or behavioural addiction. For those receiving inpatient treatment, access to around-the-clock care and treatment is provided whenever needed, no matter whether it is outside their treatment programme.
Private residential rehab clinics are designed to promote healing by providing all the necessary facilities and amenities for a peaceful and comfortable stay for however long. The goal is to remove all stressors so that the individual can focus entirely on their recovery.
Why Choose Inpatient Drug And Alcohol Rehab London?
The truth is inpatient rehab treatment, also known as residential rehab programmes, provides individuals with the best possible chance of recovery.
This is because patients are surrounded by a team of addiction specialists and medical professionals who provide support, guidance and help every step of the way, making this form of addiction treatment the safest and most effective option for recovery. It is also highly confidential, you will be in a private environment and benefit from your own space with the support of heath professionals as you go through the transformation to a person free from addiction.
Addiction recovery doesn’t tend to be linear, especially at the start of the journey. This is why having access to a comprehensive level of care is incredibly important to help rejuvenate both your body and mind.
Residential drug and alcohol rehabs are also able to provide specialised treatment during the detox stage (often the hardest part for many), as well as comprehensive treatment for those who receive a dual diagnosis in the admissions process. This is when a person is living with both addiction and a mental health condition, which requires a more intensive, targeted treatment plan to treat both co-occurring diagnoses.
At our inpatient treatment clinics in London, all patients receive a personalised programme that is tailored to their unique needs and requirements. This plan is centred around what the individual needs to recover and further prevent a relapse, which could involve a broad range of therapies and ongoing support.
Along with a team of medical professionals and addiction specialists dedicated to patient care, patients may enjoy the convenience of daily meal preparation by onsite chefs and the privacy of individual rooms. Wellness spaces, including communal areas and spa facilities, may also be available to ensure a thorough healing experience.
At Rehab Clinics Group, our team are able to find the most convenient rehab centre for your needs. We can refer you to the best centre for your location, budget and treatment requirements and begin your recovery journey as soon as possible. To find out more about our London alcohol rehab locations, contact our admissions team today by calling 03301 596 494 or by filling out our contact form.
What to Expect During Your Time at Drug and Alcohol Rehab in London
Our drug and alcohol rehab centre in London serves as a safe haven for individuals seeking the opportunity to break free from addiction.
Rehabilitation schedules will depend on the specific treatment plan, which is determined on a case-by-case basis. However, we’ve included an example of what that can look like below so that you can have a good understanding of what to expect when entering a private drug and alcohol rehab clinic.
No matter what addiction is being treated, residential rehab will often start with an assisted detox. This involves an assessment by our qualified doctors, who closely monitor your physical and mental health during the initial days of the detox. They keep a watchful eye on withdrawal symptoms, ensuring your safety and comfort at all times.
This detox phase can sometimes feel hard to overcome, but most people find that the routine provided by the rehab truly centre helps provide structure and support during this time, proven to help with regulating stress effectively.
Beyond the detox phase, your day will start with a healthy breakfast, which is typically followed by a group therapy session. These sessions serve as a platform to share experiences, gain insights from others, and build mutual support – which are all key elements in maintaining motivation and commitment to the recovery process.
After the morning group session, individuals will typically engage in a one-on-one counselling session with one of our medical professionals, forming a core part of a personalised treatment plan. This provides an opportunity to delve into the root cause of your addiction, helping you understand the triggers and how best to manage them in the future.
The afternoons may be filled with holistic therapies, such as art, yoga, or music sessions designed to heal the mind and body and restore a sense of calm and wellbeing. Physical activities, such as group walks or light gym sessions, may also form a part of the daily routine, promoting healthy habits and natural endorphin release.
In the evenings, educational workshops about addiction and recovery can often be conducted, providing the knowledge and tools that you will find beneficial throughout your journey. You’ll end your day with a delicious and well-balanced meal, possibly a quiet meditation or reading session, and a good night’s rest, ensuring you’re physically and mentally prepared for a new day.
Our recovery team will be with you throughout the day, offering support, care, and encouragement whenever you need it. Should you struggle with severe withdrawal symptoms, our medical team may also provide prescribed medication to manage these effectively, allowing for a more comfortable and relaxed rehabilitation experience.
Living with addiction can often bring chaos to someone’s life. So, we understand that for some, following a daily schedule might seem intensive at first. But believe us, it’s this very routine that can be a lifeline for many people who are working towards recovery.
At Rehab Clinics Group, we understand just how important downtime is. So, rest assured that at rehab, there’s going to be plenty of time to simply relax and be still outside of any personalised daily routine plan. For example, you could watch some TV, spend time in the garden, or engage in social activities that are run daily at the facility, where you can spend time with others who are also working on their recovery.
So, while the schedule might seem a bit intense to begin with, we believe that striking a balance is key.
Our Drug and Alcohol Detox Programmes in London
Our drug and alcohol detox programme in London is dedicated to giving individuals the chance to experience a life free from substance abuse.
The medically assisted detox programme involves an assessment by our qualified doctor, who’ll then observe your withdrawal symptoms and mental health for the first 1-7 days of your drug or alcohol detox.
This is a crucial stage because we want everyone who enters our treatment centre to receive a high level of care and support. You will be monitored and closely watched on how you are coping with physical withdrawal symptoms.
Throughout the medically assisted detox, you will have the support of a recovery team who are there for you 24/7. They can organise prescription medication to be prescribed to you if you are struggling with severe withdrawal symptoms and help you to stay motivated throughout the entire process.
After your drug or alcohol detox, an expert team will develop a personalised programme to begin your residential treatment. With medical professional help, we get to the core of how your addiction started and the processes and therapies that will work best to overcome your addiction.
How Much Does Drug and Alcohol Rehab in London Cost?
The cost of rehab in London will entirely depend on the clinic, the length of stay and the treatment provided. But, typically speaking, the cost of receiving treatment at a private rehab centre starts from £3,000+.
Outpatient options do tend to be more affordable option initially due to the less intensive approach to addiction treatment. However, it’s worth noting that free aftercare support is provided on an outpatient basis for those who receive residential treatment for 12 months.
Covering The Costs of Drug and Alcohol Rehab in London
Here at Rehab Clinics Group, we deeply understand that the cost of rehab treatment can often be a barrier for those who are looking to tackle addiction head-on.
We assure you that our dedicated admission team is committed to finding the most effective solution tailored to your unique needs.
There are a number of options available to help with the costs that many individuals are not aware of at first, which can greatly alleviate the financial impact of your treatment.
We will find the right treatment path that aligns with your financial capabilities and personal needs. We believe that no one should have to worry about financial concerns, and we work to ensure that they do not stand in the way of recovery.
Please feel free to reach out to us at any time to learn more.
Addictions Treated at Drug and Alcohol Rehab London
At Rehab Clinics Group, our drug and alcohol rehabs in London are able to treat all types of addiction, including specialised treatment approaches for detox and in the case of a dual diagnosis being identified.
See below for more information.
Alcohol Rehab
Alcohol addiction is a dependency that is commonly treated at our London rehab centres. For this reason, we’ve ensured that our dedicated teams offer the specialised knowledge and expertise to help individuals through their recovery process.
The first step of alcohol rehab in London will follow a thorough evaluation of your social, emotional, mental, and psychological health history. This enables us to understand your relationship with addiction so that a bespoke alcohol recovery plan is tailored to your unique needs.
For those who have a long history of alcoholism, a medically managed detox may be necessary to alleviate the physical withdrawal symptoms that are commonly associated with alcohol withdrawal. Rest assured that the detox stage is facilitated by our onsite doctor and supported by our addiction specialists, who provide emotional support and prescribe and administer detox medication when necessary.
Once detox has been completed, individuals focus more specifically on healing psychologically. Depending on the specific programme, this may include a broad range of therapy treatments.
Additionally, people who are in alcohol recovery may also participate in skills training and personal growth workshops. All sessions are designed to aid with overcoming addiction, providing the necessary skills to maintain sobriety after the rehab programme comes to an end.
All alcohol rehab programmes include ongoing support in the form of a 12 month aftercare programme, which is free of charge.
Find out more about our alcohol rehab London programmes.
Cocaine Rehab
When entering cocaine rehab, The initial assessment will help uncover both the intensity and nature of the substance abuse and if a co-occurring condition is present. Following this understanding, our team at the centre carefully design a recovery roadmap exclusively tailored to your individual needs.
Patients typically experience a number of physical symptoms, such as an elevated temperature, intense cravings and a loss of appetite, but typically, the psychological withdrawal symptoms are known to be the most intense with cocaine withdrawal. This may include intense paranoia, restlessness, feelings of despair, anxiety and trouble with concentration.
For those who have developed a severe dependence on cocaine, a medically managed detox may be required to control the distressing withdrawal symptoms.
The entire stay at cocaine rehab will involve participating in behavioural therapies, one-to-one counselling, group therapy and relapse prevention sessions. Patients are typically encouraged to talk through their experiences with addiction so that a deep understanding of the root cause can be established. From there, steps can be taken to learn how to manage recovery for the long term.
Patients who seek treatment at a drug and alcohol rehab centre in London through Rehab Clinics Group are also provided with a free aftercare package for a year. This is so we can provide further support and guidance along the recovery journey whenever it is needed.
Find out more about our cocaine rehab London programmes.
Prescription Drug Rehab
The first move towards recovering from prescription drug addiction involves a comprehensive analysis of your health history from various social, emotional, mental, and psychological perspectives. Our specialist admissions team will conduct this assessment under the supervision of medical professionals who deeply understand the challenges of prescription drug addiction.
Treatment plans for prescription drug addiction typically include a comprehensive detox programme followed by a broad range of evidence based therapies. This may include cognitive behavioural therapy with our onsite psychologist, as well as relapse prevention sessions and group therapy.
Understanding the wide scope and intensity of prescription drug addiction, we recognise that the withdrawal experience can vary significantly. It can be influenced by numerous factors, from the type of medication involved to the severity of the dependency.
Given the diversity of drugs that fall under the umbrella term of prescription drug addiction, our services are tailored to treat all forms. These include (but are not limited to) addictions to medications such as:
- Codeine
- oxycontin
- Ambien
- Prescription stimulants
- Benzodiazepines
- Prescription opioids
- Diazepam
In the case of more severe addictions, our medical team will be on hand to provide a medically supervised detox. This approach can be essential in helping manage and alleviate the often challenging withdrawal symptoms that may arise.
Your journey at the rehab will also involve a structured daily routine and a variety of holistic workshops and activities aimed at overcoming your addiction and giving you the skills needed to remain in recovery after residential treatment.
A one-year aftercare package is also included with all prescription drug rehab programmes to ensure individuals have access to ongoing support and guidance.
Find out more about prescription drug rehab London programmes.
Heroin Rehab
Heroin is an incredibly addictive substance which requires a specialised treatment approach. Residential programmes are developed on a case-by-case basis in order to fully address all aspects of the individual entering our London rehab facility.
In our experience, the withdrawal stage of heroin rehab can be incredibly tough, as patients will likely experience a number of physical and psychological symptoms. This may include nausea, migraines, extreme fatigue, muscle cramps, sweating, feelings of anxiety and depression, and intense cravings.
But, within an inpatient setting, patients have access to 24/7 care from a team of professionals with extensive experience in getting people through detox as smoothly and comfortably as possible. Medication may also be given to those who are struggling with heroin detox, which reduces the intensity of symptoms dramatically.
The heroin detox stage will prepare individuals for their next phase of treatment, which involves treating the psychological aspects of addiction. Oftentimes, mental health issues can be present in those struggling with heroin addiction. If this is the case, a dual diagnosis will be identified, and both conditions will be treated as part of their personalised rehabilitation programme.
The main goal of a heroin addiction treatment plan is to identify the root causes that are contributing to the cycle, so that new and healthier coping mechanisms can be learnt. This may include working through various forms of trauma or pivotal life events that caused their personal trajectory to turn to addiction.
After residential rehab programmes conclude, individuals are given 12 months of free ongoing support from our specialist team and access to various therapy and support group options.
Find out more about our heroin addiction London programmes.
Cannabis Rehab
With cannabis addiction treatment, the process of treatment will begin with an assisted detox, allowing individuals to manage their withdrawal symptoms in a safe, private and comfortable environment. A team of specialists will also be on hand to support their needs during this time.
A cannabis detox will involve several withdrawal symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. However, the toughest part of the detox stage tends to be the mental aspect, which may include intense paranoia, anger and anxiety, vivid dreams, and intense cravings. Physical symptoms may accompany this, too, such as night sweats, abdominal pain, muscle aches and tremors.
Cannabis is becoming increasingly more accessible, so there may be a significant focus on relapse prevention within a personalised treatment programme. Treatment approaches will depend on the person. However, all programmes will include engaging in a number of evidence based therapy sessions.
After receiving residential cannabis treatment, individuals are given access to 12 months of comprehensive ongoing support from the clinic they sought treatment from. All secondary treatment packages for cannabis addiction treatment are free of charge.
Find out more about our cannabis rehab London programmes.
Behavioural Addiction Rehab
There are various forms of behavioural addiction that we are able to treat at our drug and alcohol rehab in London. Similar to all addiction treatment programmes, the process will start with a gentle but thorough assessment by our specialist admissions team, so that a comprehensive treatment plan can be tailored to suit the unique individual seeking treatment.
How we approach treating each behavioural addiction will depend on the person, the type of addiction and the severity of the dependency. For example, with gambling addiction, the course of treatment often involves various unique approaches.
Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is a common method utilised, as these sessions focus on changing unhealthy gambling behaviours and thoughts, such as rationalisations and false beliefs. It can also teach people how to fight intense urges, work through uncomfortable feelings and thought patterns, and face unresolved trauma related to financial, work, and relationship problems caused by addiction.
With behavioural addictions, certain medications can be used to help manage any co-occurring conditions, which are often present. This can include (but is not limited to) depression, anxiety, or substance misuse. If this is the case, a dual diagnosis treatment plan will be tailored.
We offer an invaluable resource – 12 months of free aftercare following behavioural addiction treatment. This aftercare package allows for continuity of care, ensuring support is available as you transition back into your daily life, and aids in maintaining the progress achieved during your rehab stay.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Unfortunately, it is common to encounter situations where individuals are struggling to cope with multiple cooccurring conditions. For example, a person might be living with a mental health disorder, such as depression or anxiety and being addicted to substances like alcohol or cocaine. In these cases, patients receive what is known as a dual diagnosis.
At our drug and alcohol rehab London location, we provide comprehensive dual diagnosis treatment programmes to cater to complex needs. Our approach is rooted in the understanding that to overcome these challenges truly, it’s imperative to address both the addiction and the mental health disorder in a gentle and effective manner.
Our London rehab centre is renowned for its capacity to treat dual diagnosis conditions effectively. The dual diagnosis programme focuses on not just one but all addictions or disorders that an individual may be living with. Whether it’s drug and alcohol addiction or a combination of substance misuse and mental health disorders, we are fully equipped to treat these conditions effectively.
A combined treatment approach that involves a series of evidence based treatment avenues helps improve the overall prognosis, enhances the individual’s resilience, and significantly increases the odds of achieving long-term recovery.
Find out more about our dual diagnosis treatment programmes in London.
Addiction Therapies and Treatment In London
At Rehab Clinics Group, we offer a broad range of evidence-based therapy treatment options to ensure that the psychological aspect of your addiction is treated.
Which therapy and treatment options are used will depend on the individual, as each person’s relationship with addiction will be different. See below for an overview of some of the most commonly used therapies for addiction treatment.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a popular and effective method used in treating both drug and alcohol addiction.
Provided by trained counsellors and psychologists, the primary goal is to identify and rectify longstanding negative thought patterns, beliefs, and behaviours that contribute to addictive behaviours. By doing so, it allows individuals to make room to develop and incorporate healthier coping mechanisms and responses to triggers, thereby reducing the risk of relapse.
Group Therapy
Group Therapy is a core part of most addiction treatment programmes.
In these valuable sessions, patients are able to share their experiences, challenges, and successes with others who are going through similar journeys. This facilitates emotional support and understanding, offering a sense of community and accountability.
Group therapy can be particularly beneficial in normalising the experience of recovery and reducing feelings of isolation and stigma associated with addiction, as many individuals who enter treatment experience feelings of shame, guilt and embarrassment.
Motivational Interviewing Sessions
Motivational Interviewing can be defined as a specific type of counselling approach that is designed to help individuals overcome any resistance to change in relation to their addictive behaviours.
This collaborative approach between a therapist and patient enhances an individual’s motivation and readiness for change by resolving any uncertainties, empowering them to continue taking the necessary steps towards recovery.
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) is a specific form of cognitive-behavioural therapy that teaches individuals how to live in the moment, cope with stress in healthy ways, regulate emotions, and improve relationships with others.
Although DBT is a type of CBT, it is more focused on how to regulate intense emotions as and when they arise, as opposed to changing specific thought processes.
DBT has been known to be particularly beneficial for those who receive an unexpected dual diagnosis or an existing mental health condition that may be contributing to their addictive behaviours.
Holistic Therapy Approaches
Holistic therapies refer to treatments that aim to treat the person as a whole, which include the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of a person.
These can include (but are not limited to) therapeutic practices such as yoga, meditation, spa therapy, acupuncture, mindfulness training and art therapy. The goal is to help individuals work on maintaining their overall wellness and form healthy alternatives to managing stress levels.
Transcranial Electrical Stimulation Therapy
Transcranial electrical stimulation therapy involves the use of low-level electrical currents to stimulate specific areas of the brain. It is entirely noninvasive and known to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it a valuable tool in the treatment of substance use disorders.
Satori Chair Therapy
Satori Chair Therapy is a unique method used to achieve deep relaxation and heightened self-awareness.
The therapy chair uses sound and vibration to induce a meditative state, which has been proven to help reduce stress, increase mental clarity, and promote emotional healing. This can be particularly beneficial in addressing the psychological aspects of addiction, used in conjunction with other evidence based therapy methods.
Heart Rate Variability (HRV) Biofeedback Therapy
HRV biofeedback therapy is a non-invasive therapy that involves monitoring and regulating heart rate patterns.
The therapy teaches individuals in recovery how to enhance their control of their physiological responses to stress and anxiety, which can reduce cravings and improve emotional resilience.
Relapse Prevention Therapy
Relapse Prevention Therapy is a type of cognitive-behavioural approach, specifically designed to identify and prevent high-risk situations that could lead to relapse.
Relapse prevention sessions are incredibly important, as they help to reinforce individuals with effective coping strategies for how to approach triggers as and when they happen.
Over the course of their stay at a rehab facility, this will help create a comprehensive relapse prevention plan unique to them and their specific addiction triggers, which is a critical component for maintaining long-term recovery.
What Happens After Drug and Alcohol Rehab In London?
The first few months after rehab treatment are known to be the most difficult. This is largely because individuals return to their previous environments and do not have access to the same level of extensive 24/7 support provided at residential rehab.
At Rehab Clinics Group, we understand that the recovery journey doesn’t simply stop after receiving inpatient treatment. For this reason, all rehab programmes we provide include 12 months of free aftercare. This ensures that you still have access to the help and support that is offered at our inpatient rehab centres long after you have completed treatment.
Our aim is to ensure that no individual feels as though they have no support network after their residential treatment ends. That is why our aftercare programmes typically include a wide range of different ways to access support. This may include frequent check-ins with our medical professionals, the ability to attend group therapy sessions and weekly Zoom meetings to check on your progress.
Our secondary treatment programmes are in place to offer you the opportunity to voice any concerns or queries you may have during what’s often described as the most difficult phase of your recovery.
Our Admissions Process
It can be a daunting process to take the leap and reach out to a drug and alcohol rehab. This is what we are here to help you with.
Our admissions team are able to help you find the best rehab clinic for your needs, as well as start the admissions process for you.
You will be asked a number of questions so that our expert team can offer you the best treatment programme for you, including your name and location, whether you have any mental health conditions or chronic illness, as well as the severity of your substance abuse, the types of substances that you are addicted to, and your budget.
We will then suggest one of our UK-leading drug or alcohol rehab in London, which will give you the best addiction treatments for your needs.
Find out more about our admissions process or call a member of our team for any questions you have at 03301 596 494.
Help and Support For Loved Ones
If you are currently trying to find help for someone struggling with addiction, we understand and deeply empathise with how hard this must be for you.
At Rehab Clinics Group, we regularly talk to friends and family members of those who are living with drug and alcohol dependency.
We offer a free support service for friends and family, where you can seek expert advice and support from our team of addiction specialists.
One of the most common queries we receive is how to approach someone and talk to them about their addiction, as well as how to help them to seek support. Our team can help you with staging an effective intervention approach, allowing you to manage this delicate situation in a way that encourages a positive outcome.
Don’t carry the weight alone. Reach out to our team today, and we will help you with finding a solution.
Start Your Recovery Journey Today
At Rehab Clinics Group, we provide you with the best and most comprehensive addiction treatment programmes available, which will help you to overcome your addiction.
For more details on our London rehab clinics, please get in contact with our team today at 03301 596 494 or fill out our contact form, and we will get in touch. Start your recovery journey in London today.
Drug and Alcohol Rehab London FAQs
See below frequently asked questions we receive from individuals seeking drug and alcohol rehab in London.
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How Long Does Rehab Last in London?
The duration of treatment in a London rehab clinic will depend on the severity of your addiction. However, we recommend at least 28 days as this provides you with enough time to complete your detox programme and receive therapy treatments which will give you the best chance to overcome your addiction. -
Can My Family Visit Me at Rehab in London?
We know the thought of leaving your support network behind temporarily to seek treatment is worrying. But rest assured knowing that your family will be able to visit you at rehab. There will be specific visiting hours where you can spend time catching up with loved ones. -
Can I Force a Loved One into Rehab?
No, the decision whether to go into rehab has to be made by the individual. However, we do have a family intervention service for worried loved ones. This will involve talking to your family member with the aid of a professional in the hope that they can be persuaded to get help. -
What Is Alcoholism?
Alcoholism refers to an addiction to alcohol, whereby it’s a physical and mental challenge to go for periods of time without consumption. Someone with alcoholism will adjust their life around alcohol and even risk everything to obtain another drink, which leads to behavioural addictions.
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How Does Alcohol Addiction Develop?
During the early stages of alcoholism, a person will increase their desire to consume alcohol and become dependent on it. Your brain experiences chemical changes which release a feel-good chemical each time you drink. Once you become dependent on alcohol, this feel-good chemical disappears, and a person continues to consume alcohol to prevent physical withdrawal symptoms.
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How Does Alcoholism Typically Effect People?
Once alcohol becomes the focal point of a person’s life, the disorder can negatively affect their relationships, enthusiasm, personality and career. Cognitive behavioural therapy analyses the characteristics and history of people with alcoholism, but the cause of this disorder isn’t yet known. There might be certain situations or relationships in a person’s life, making them feel like they need alcohol as an escape. -
What Are The Signs & Symptoms Of Alcoholism?
Being alcohol dependant is no way to live life. This habit has detrimental effects on your physical and mental health. If you’re worried that you might be dependent on alcohol, here are some common signs and symptoms to look out for:- A strong need to drink alcohol as soon as you awake
- Difficulty stopping consuming alcohol once you’ve started
- Planning your social and professional life around alcohol. For example, worrying that you’ll struggle not having a drink to hand
- Physical withdrawals if you haven’t drunk alcohol for a while. This includes sweating, nausea, shaking and mood swings
- A strong inability to decline alcohol
- An overwhelming desire to drink
- Being dishonest to your family and friends about how often you drink alcohol
- Going to any lengths to obtain a drink – even if it means stealing money to possess it
- A strong desire to become intoxicated more often than usual
- Little/no interest in pursuing your normal routine
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What Is Drug Addiction?
By definition, drug addiction creates chemical changes in the brain, which cause a behaviour change. Someone drug dependent will have little self-control and can’t resist the urge to take drugs. -
How Does Drug Addiction Typically Effect People?
Drug addiction can vary from intoxicants such as cocaine, marijuana, ecstasy, prescribed drugs, and more. Without rehab treatment, a person can struggle with remembering information, learning, controlling their behaviour and emotions, and making poor judgments. As a result of their drug use, a person makes impulsive decisions that can negatively affect their life choices and health. -
What Are The Common Signs & Symptoms Of Drug Addiction?
The longer you use drugs, the more difficult becoming abstinent comes.
Here are some physical symptoms of drug addiction to look out for within yourself or others:
- Difficulty sleeping
- Eating more or less
- Sudden weight change
- Pupils appearing larger or smaller than normal
- Changes in personal grooming habits
- Little control over coordination
- Paranoid or increase in anxiety
- Little or no interest in any activity
- Uncontrollable mood swings – including sadness and anger
- Sudden bursts of energy or nervousness
- Continuously thinking about taking drugs and revolving your life around drugs
- Unable to remain in control of taking drugs
- Using drugs to alleviate any negative emotions and make yourself feel better
- Taking drugs to combat any withdrawal symptoms
- Stopping your favourite hobbies to take drugs instead
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How Do Drugs Impact Health?
Every drug has a different effect on your wellbeing and psychical health. The effect could depend on numerous factors, including the drug’s strength, dosage, how often and how long you’ve been taking the drug, your psychical and mental health before taking drugs, how you ingested the drug, if you've mixed it with other substances and more. Amongst the most common side effects, you’ll find you’re more likely to have an accident because you’re not aware of your surroundings. You also make yourself more vulnerable to sexual assault or violence.
Drugs also have many long-term effects, including cancer, damage to your organs, collapsed veins (if you inject), mood swings, reduced or increase hair growth, and more. The comedown from drugs can be the most difficult part of drug abuse. For example, many uses experience fatigue, hunger, cold sweats, migraines, difficulty sleeping and more. Due to these after-effects, users will continue taking drugs to return to the positive effects they associate with drugs. However, this is where drug addiction begins and becomes hard to battle alone.