Drug and Alcohol Rehab Scotland

Seeking professional help for addiction is a very brave step to take, and we are here to make the transition into recovery as smooth as possible. When you seek support, there’s hope and a promise of a brighter future waiting for you.

At Rehab Clinics Group, we offer access to clinics all across Scotland, with each facility wholeheartedly committed to providing specialised, high-quality care.

From free and accessible addiction advice to intensive residential treatments, we are one of Scotland’s leading service providers in addiction recovery, with our only focus being to help you find life-changing treatment for an alcohol or drug addiction in Scotland.

All of our drug and alcohol addiction rehab clinics in Scotland operate under the strict standards of the Care Quality Commission (CQC), ensuring that you receive nothing short of the best care available. Trust in us, as many across Scotland have, to help you get back to feeling like yourself again.

Drug and Alcohol Rehab in Scotland

Key offerings available include:

• 1:1 Support from Clinical Nurse Practitioners, Registered Mental Health Nurses and Therapists
• Access to Trained Psychiatrists
• 24 Hour Nursing Care
• Comfortable & Quality Accommodation
• Clinically Led Recovery Model Underpinned by Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)
• 1 Year Aftercare

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Understanding Alcohol and Drug Addiction

When a person is living with addiction, they typically find it difficult, if not impossible, to stop using the substance or engaging in the behaviour. They have an intense focus on their addiction to the extent that it takes over their life, often at the expense of work, relationships, health, or personal care.

Addiction really is complex, and it can be hard to understand from an outside perspective. But it’s important to remember that dependency is not a choice. Like all illnesses, it’s a serious disease that requires treatment to overcome fully. 

Substances associated with addiction can range from alcohol and nicotine to more potent drugs, such as heroin, cannabis, cocaine, or prescription medications. Addiction can also extend to behaviours, such as gambling, which provide a ‘reward’ – which can be a compelling incentive to pursue the behaviour despite the negative outcomes and impact repeatedly.

The feeling of addiction can be difficult to describe as it is a unique experience, varying from person to person. However, typically speaking, it can often include intense cravings for the substance, irritability or restlessness when it is unavailable, and an inability to focus on anything else. 

It’s as if the brain is rewired, making it hard to resist the urge to take the drug or indulge in addictive behaviour. The individual might feel a temporary relief or pleasure from the drug or behaviour, but this is often followed by feelings of guilt, sadness, or even physical discomfort, which can lead to further use or behaviour, creating a harmful cycle.

When It’s Time to Seek Help

Recognising the signs that an addiction may be present is incredibly important because, at this stage, seeking professional help is essential for effective intervention, and support is pivotal. 

Typically speaking, the most common signs that an addiction has developed can include (but are not limited to): 

• Have you developed a higher tolerance? – over time, individuals may develop a tolerance to the substance, requiring larger amounts to achieve the desired effect. This tolerance can be an indication of the progression towards addiction.
• Are you experiencing withdrawal symptoms? – when attempting to reduce or quit substance use, individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms. These can manifest as physical and psychological discomfort, such as nausea, sweating, anxiety, insomnia, irritability, and intense cravings.
  
• Are you finding substances harder to resist? – addiction is characterised by the inability to control substance use. Despite the desire to quit or cut back, individuals find themselves unable to stop using. They may spend excessive time obtaining and using the substance and recovering from its effects.
• Do you feel you’re struggling to function? – addiction often leads to a neglect of responsibilities in various areas of life. Individuals may struggle to fulfil their obligations at work, school, or home due to their preoccupation with substance use.
• Have you experienced alcohol or drugs having a negative impact on different aspects of your life? – even in the face of negative consequences, individuals with addiction continue to use the substance. These consequences can include problems at work, damaged relationships, and deteriorating physical and mental health.
• Have you withdrawn from your loved ones? – addiction can isolate individuals, causing them to withdraw from their social circles. They may distance themselves from family and friends, spending more time alone or with others who also use substances. 
• Do you look and/or feel different? – addiction often leads to noticeable physical and behavioural changes. These may include bloodshot eyes, significant weight loss or gain, poor hygiene, erratic behaviour, mood swings, and a lack of motivation.
• Are you hiding your substance use from the people in your life? – addicted individuals may constantly think about using the substance they have become dependent on, with it becoming the central focus of their lives. They may engage in secretive behaviour to hide their substance abuse from others.

No matter how out of reach recovery may seem in the present moment, always remember that addiction can be treated and worked through. 

Addiction can present itself in people’s lives as ‘manageable’ or ‘under control’, but seeking the right support before greater damage is caused is important. As drug and alcohol consumption continues, more and more damage may be done to your physical and mental health.

Our team is here to relieve you of the burden of finding the right treatment, providing comprehensive assistance every step of the way.

Addiction Treatment in Scotland 

Accepting that you may need help for addiction is a tough realisation to come to, but rest assured that there are many options out there that will help you on your journey to recovery. 

You will have to decide whether you will benefit most from outpatient or inpatient treatment. Please see below for more information on each treatment option. 

Outpatient Treatment in Scotland 

Outpatient rehab is a type of treatment that involves continuing to stay at home while receiving addiction-related support, care and assistance. For some people, outpatient care can provide a way of starting their journey of recovery without having to leave their day-to-day responsibilities and life on hold.

Outpatient rehab typically involves attending regular therapy sessions and participating in other activities that promote recovery, such as support groups and 12-step programmes. 

While outpatient care can be effective, it is important to remember that it requires a great deal of motivation and commitment. People who are not ready to attempt to make significant changes alone may not be successful in an outpatient rehab environment and will far better benefit from residential rehab.

Inpatient Treatment in Scotland 

For many people struggling with addiction, residential rehab provides an invaluable opportunity to recover in a safe and supportive environment. Free from the pressures and noise of the outside world, residents can focus solely on their recovery without having to worry about anything else. 

Residential rehab centres provide constant access to highly trained professionals who are available 24/7, with their sole purpose being to assist individuals who have lost their sense of self and direction in life. 

These clinics offer safe, private, secure and extremely comfortable settings, providing comprehensive support ranging from professional therapy sessions to help manage symptoms to emotional support when needed. The expertise and compassionate care available are designed to assist anyone facing challenges, offering help in a variety of ways tailored to individual needs. It is a lifesaving step for those who are ready to focus entirely on regaining control over their lives once and for all.

How Long Can You Stay at a Residential Rehab in Scotland?

The length of stay in a residential rehab programme can vary depending on the severity of the addiction, the presence of any co-occurring mental health disorders, and the individual’s progress in treatment.

In most cases, people spend 28 days in residential rehab. However, some programmes may be a little shorter or last a little longer, and some people may need to transition to a less intensive level of care after completing a residential treatment programme. 

Ultimately, residential rehab aims to help people achieve long-term sobriety, and the length of stay is tailored to each person’s needs accordingly.

Here at Rehab Clinics Group, we recommend a 28 day treatment programme, as this time frame tends to be the most effective. This is because it allows enough time for a comprehensive approach. This involves a full medical detox, as well as a personalised treatment programme, which significantly minimises the risks of a potential relapse.

How Much Does Drug and Alcohol Rehab Cost in Scotland?

For those considering private residential rehabilitation therapy in Scotland, typically speaking, the average cost is £3,000 per week. A 28 day treatment plan typically ranges between £6,000 and £14,000.

As outpatient treatment programmes are not as intensive and do not offer the same standard of treatment, the costs typically vary between £1,000 and £3,000. 

At Rehab Clinics Group, we deeply understand that the cost of treatment can be a significant barrier when it comes to accessing treatment. That’s why we work with each and every individual who needs support to find the best and most suitable option for them. 

In many cases, insurance will cover at least part of the cost of treatment, and there are often financial assistance programmes available to help with the remainder. In addition, there are several charities that offer financial assistance to those in need, such as Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol & Drugs, Turning Point, We Are With You and River Garden.

So, please try not to worry. Reach out to us today, and our team will work with you to find the best possible solution.

What Happens at a Drug and Alcohol Rehab in Scotland?

Drug and alcohol rehabs in Scotland involve a comprehensive process that is completely developed to help individuals overcome their addiction and regain control of their lives. 

Each person who enters a rehab clinic for addiction support will follow a personalised treatment plan that is tailored to their specific needs, no matter how complex. However, typically speaking, most programmes will involve the process of medical detoxification, intensive therapy, and access aftercare, all within a secure, safe and serene environment. 

Please find more information on this process below. 

Pre Admission Assessment

The pre-admission assessment is a crucial first step in the rehab process. 

The admissions assessment involves a comprehensive evaluation of the individual’s physical health, the severity of the addiction, any history of substance abuse, and a thorough mental health evaluation. The objective is to completely and thoroughly understand the individual’s situation to tailor a treatment plan that effectively addresses all their needs.

At Rehab Clinics Group, we ensure that our admissions process is as speedy and simple as possible so that you can receive treatment at our rehab centre in Scotland quickly. Our team genuinely understands that every person has different requirements when it comes to residential rehab, which is why we strive to make the admissions process as easy for you as possible.

Our dedicated team of addiction specialists will start by asking you a series of important questions as part of our initial assessment. This may include personal information, such as your name, contact number, the type and severity of your addiction, as well as whether you suffer from any health problems or mental health disorders. Please rest assured that all conversations are strictly confidential. 

After all the required information has been gathered, the team will then take care of the rest. The team will handle all logistics, ensuring a seamless transition into treatment. 

Find out more about our admissions process.

Tailored Treatment Programme

Following the initial assessment, a personalised treatment programme is created at this stage to align with the individual’s unique needs and circumstances. This might include a medically assisted detox, a combined approach to treatment involving various forms of therapy, and a thorough relapse prevention plan. 

The goal is to ensure that the treatment is comprehensive and addresses all facets of the individual’s addiction and any co-occurring mental health conditions.

Sadly, mental health issues often lie at the core of many addiction cases, leading to a cycle where substance abuse worsens mental health problems and vice versa. 

A dual diagnosis will have been identified in these cases, and the individual’s personalised treatment plan will be created to include treatment for both conditions. 

A holistic approach to treatment is sometimes beneficial to individuals living with both addiction and a mental health disorder, as it uses therapeutic approaches to manage symptoms, alleviate stress, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. 

The inclusion of mental health treatment in addiction rehab is integral to reducing the risk of relapse and promoting sustainable recovery.

Medically Assisted Detox 

Medically assisted detoxification is typically the first step in any rehab treatment protocol. 

The process of detoxification varies for each individual and is heavily influenced by the type of substance involved. Some addictions have a more pronounced psychological impact, while others predominantly affect the individual physically. Generally, both mental and physical aspects are involved, but the intensity can vary significantly.

The body is cleansed under the close and careful watch of medical staff. This starts the body’s healing while making sure withdrawal symptoms, which can be tough, are handled safely. This process is essential, as it also prepares the individual for the therapeutic component of the rehab programme.

Core Therapies and Treatment

As each treatment programme is unique and determined on a case-by-case basis, the types of treatment included will vary. However, typically speaking, individuals living with addiction may find a combined-treatment approach effective, involving various evidence-based therapies. 

This may include (but is not limited to): 

• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) – CBT helps individuals understand the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, providing strategies to manage and alter negative thought patterns that contribute to substance abuse.
• Motivational interviewing – this therapeutic technique focuses on resolving any worry people may have about recovery and strengthening personal motivation for change. Five core principles are focused on – autonomy, acceptance, adaptation, empathy and evocation. 
• Stress management – coping with stress is a part of life, but learning new ways to do so is essential in addiction recovery. Techniques such as practising mindfulness, relaxation training, and exercise may be incorporated to manage stress.
• Dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT): DBT is often used in the case of dual diagnosis, helping individuals to work through and manage painful emotions effectively.
• Group therapy – in a group therapy session, individuals are given a safe space to share experiences freely and learn from each other without judgement, which encourages a sense of community and shared understanding.
• Holistic therapies – these may include activities like yoga, meditation, and art therapy, which aim to treat the whole person rather than just the symptoms of addiction. 
• Relapse prevention – these sessions focus on identifying triggers and high-risk situations that are personal to the individual so that effective strategies can be developed. 

Please note that all approaches are grounded in evidence-based practices and are structured within the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines.

What Addictions Are Treated in Scotland?

Our drug and alcohol rehabs in Scotland offer dedicated and comprehensive services tailored to each dependency. 

Please note that, typically speaking, the majority of addictions will require a comprehensive detox process before a personalised treatment programme can start. We have included more information on how each addiction is treated below.

Alcohol Rehab

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is sadly incredibly common, but rest assured that our rehab clinics have the knowledge and understanding required to provide comprehensive treatment, specifically for alcohol addiction. 

Rehabilitation treatment for alcohol addiction requires specialised care due to the withdrawal process that can happen when a patient stops consuming alcohol. 

Detoxification can present many unpleasant withdrawal symptoms, which are usually of a physiological nature. This can include (but is not limited to) tremors, nausea, hallucinations, seizures, and delirium tremens (DT), which can be life-threatening. 

Alcohol detox symptoms will start to subside after 24 hours for some people. For others, the process may last for up to 10 days. This will depend on varying factors, such as the individual and the severity of the addiction. 

After the medically assisted detox is complete, psychological treatment is often necessary to work on all underlying issues that led to alcohol abuse, including stress, trauma, or mental health disorders. 

Learn more about alcohol detox & withdrawals.

Cocaine Rehab

The initial stage of cocaine rehab will require an assisted detox, which is when the body is cleared of the drug it has become dependent on.

Cocaine withdrawal can be challenging to experience, and it typically starts within a few hours to a couple of days after the last use. The cocaine detox process can involve a range of symptoms, such as restlessness, depression, anxiety, fatigue, and intense cravings for the drug. 

Although physical withdrawal symptoms can feel severe at the time, cocaine detox predominantly presents with psychological dependence, making a combined approach of both medical and emotional support essential. Medical professionals carefully monitor and manage these withdrawal symptoms in an inpatient rehab setting to ensure safety and comfort.

Once the detox process is complete, patients who are recovering from cocaine addiction will then follow a tailored treatment programme designed to address their unique relationship with dependency. This is the most effective way of overcoming addiction in the long-term. 

Learn more about cocaine detox & withdrawals.

Prescription Drug Rehab

Addiction to prescription medication can start with a legitimate medical need, but for some, it can escalate into misuse and dependency. 

Given these drugs are initially prescribed by a medical professional, some individuals may deny the existence of a problem, posing a significant barrier to seeking help. Stopping the use abruptly can result in withdrawal symptoms similar to those seen in illegal drug abuse, making it dangerous without medical supervision. 

Since these substances are often legally obtained and stored at home, relapses can also be a significant challenge for those who are receiving treatment on an outpatient basis. This is one of the many reasons why it is strongly recommended not to attempt to detox from home. 

In an inpatient rehab setting, our medical professionals will alleviate both the physiological and psychological side effects of prescription drug withdrawal. Detox medication can be prescribed if the symptoms are severe, and other supplements, such as vitamins, will be administered in order to replenish the body with nutrients. 

This experience can widely vary as it will depend on the person, the severity of the addiction and the type of prescription medication itself, but rest assured that our team are focused on ensuring that our patients are as comfortable as possible during this temporary process. 

Once the prescription drug process is complete, patients are then ready to move on to the next stage of treatment, which will be determined in their personalised programmes. 

Typically speaking, a range of evidence based therapies will be used to help individuals understand their addiction on a deeper level, developing strategies to manage cravings and avoid triggers. 

Sessions that involve focusing on self-improvement and addressing the root causes of their addiction, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, contingency management, and motivational interviewing, have been known to be particularly effective.

Learn more about prescription drug detox & withdrawals.

Opioid Rehab

Heroin or prescription opioids are highly addictive and can cause severe physical withdrawal symptoms. 

Detoxifying from opioids at home can pose a serious risk to your health and is not recommended. This is mainly because the withdrawal process can lead to significant physical and psychological symptoms, for which medical assistance may be necessary. 

Some common withdrawal symptoms include intense anxiety, irritability, severe fatigue, depression, sweating, shaking, headaches, and even potentially life-threatening conditions such as seizures or heart-related issues.

In extreme cases where withdrawal symptoms are particularly severe, a Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) approach may be necessary. This treatment plan may involve the use of prescribed medications, such as methadone or buprenorphine, designed to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and significantly minimise cravings.

It’s understandable that the idea of using substances such as methadone to combat withdrawal symptoms can seem counterintuitive. The idea here, however, is not to replace one addiction with another but to help manage the severity of withdrawal symptoms and minimise the risk of complications. In some cases, this is the safest option. 

Methadone, in particular, is often prescribed in cases of severe opioid dependence as it helps to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the high associated with the substance. The ultimate goal is to achieve a safe and comfortable detoxification process, helping the individual to transition to the next stage of treatment.

Like all addictions, opioid dependency can cause significant psychological trauma. Using evidence based therapy approaches, treatment plans often aim to worth through these effects as gently and as carefully as possible, ultimately identifying the root cause of the addiction. Relapse prevention will also typically play a significant role in a personalised treatment programme for opioid addiction. 

Learn more about Opioid and heroin detox & withdrawals.

Cannabis Rehab 

Cannabis, while often thought of as a ‘soft drug’, can lead to a problematic dependency that is psychological in nature but not without physical withdrawal symptoms. Attempting to cease cannabis use without professional help can be challenging and cause unnecessary distress.

Cannabis withdrawal symptoms can be quite unpleasant, as patients may experience difficulty sleeping, reduced appetite, restlessness, cravings for the drug, and various forms of physical discomfort. But, the most uncomfortable symptoms will be a mental battle. 

Intense anxiety, heightened irritability, extreme paranoia, and a pang of deep sadness are common psychological symptoms found with cannabis detox. However, remember that this is a temporary experience. At residential rehab, you are in a safe, secure and supportive environment, surrounded by trained professionals who understand how to help you through this stage. 

A Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) plan may be proposed in severe instances. This can involve prescribed medications, such as N-acetylcysteine (NAC), which have shown the potential to reduce cravings and improve the mental state of those in recovery. The ultimate goal of any cannabis rehab programme is to ensure a safe, comfortable, and effective withdrawal process, allowing the individual to move forward into a life free from dependency.

After the detox stage is complete, it is common for individuals with cannabis dependency to have psychological effects that must be addressed to achieve long-term recovery. 

Through evidence-based therapeutic approaches and a tailored approach to treatment, these effects are tackled in a patient-centric manner to unearth the root cause of the addiction. Incorporating relapse prevention strategies into individualised treatment plans is also significant in encouraging long-term recovery.

Learn more about cannabis detox & withdrawals.

Behavioural Addiction Rehab

Behavioural addictions, such as gambling, can be just as gripping and detrimental as substance addiction. These addictions often stem from a person’s attempt to cope with stress, anxiety, or other emotional difficulties. 

Common behavioural addiction withdrawal symptoms include restlessness, irritability, anxiety, depression, and an intense desire to return to addictive behaviour. In some cases, antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications might be used to help manage co-occurring mental health disorders that often accompany behavioural addictions.

To manage these symptoms, an evidence based therapeutic approach is typically employed. For example, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is commonly used to help individuals understand the thoughts and behaviours that lead to their addiction. Through this method, people are given the tools, professional guidance and resources to learn new coping strategies and healthier ways to manage stress and emotional discomfort.

Find a Drug and Alcohol Rehab in Scotland 

Whether you want to stay at our rehab clinic in Scotland, or would like to visit another across the UK, each of our rehab centres offers a safe, comfortable, luxurious environment that encourages healing. 

Whichever rehab centre you select, you will receive exceptional immediate care, which provides you with everything you need to work through this life-changing period and overcome substance use disorders.

Although we understand this process can be daunting, here at Rehab Clinics Group, we promote a short relocation for residential treatment. This step will provide you with the time, focus and energy to rehabilitate and avoid any negative influences at home.

Our private drug and alcohol rehab will welcome you to a home-from-home. Our alcohol rehab centres provide you with a relaxing setting which helps you to unwind, rejuvenate and work on yourself. We believe that this will provide you with the best possible outcome of returning home drug and alcohol-free.

For convenience, we can arrange accommodation and transport for you, starting your rehab journey off on a positive note. We can also offer additional services to make your time with us positive and comfortable. We provide around-the-clock support for you, along with including your family, as and when possible. Your support network will influence your recovery probability; therefore, we will ensure you are surrounded by the right people.

If you are currently living through the difficult withdrawal symptoms of substance abuse, and require medical support, get in touch with our team. If you are concerned that a drug and alcohol addiction may be on the horizon, we can help.

Whatever your situation, we can recommend the most appropriate treatment programme for you, helping you return home with life-saving tools. Invest in yourself for a short time of rehabilitation with our expert support, and call us today on 03301 596 494.

Find out which rehab centre will be ideal for your requirements today.