According to new data from Public Health England, rates of alcoholism in Yorkshire are rising. A recent study found that 14 of every 1,000 adults in Yorkshire struggle with alcohol addiction. This poses a real problem for Yorkshire communities, with many campaigning for greater awareness of treatments options in the local area.
The new report states that, in 2017-18, almost 64,000 people across Yorkshire were dependent on alcohol. That such a large swathe of society is struggling with substance misuse speaks to underlying problems that must be addressed. Addiction treatment offers a proven route to redemption, and we believe strongly in the power of education to transform problems with drugs or alcohol.
Why is Yorkshire struggling with alcoholism?
On a personal level, the causes of addiction are granular and personal, unique to each individual. Thinking more globally, analysing social trends and cultural themes can deliver a clearer understanding of common contributory factors.
The British Liver Trust has called for increased taxation of alcoholic drinks, while supermarket accessibility also contributes to the addictive cycle. Meanwhile, many community leaders in Yorkshire cite drastic funding cuts as a potential underlying cause of increased alcoholism.
Indeed, the number of residential rehabs in Yorkshire has halved since 2013 as tough economic constraints place additional pressure on the healthcare sector. Many Yorkshire rehab centres rely on council funding, and widespread austerity has eaten into those resources.
Operating under immense strain, many local authorities are seeking cheaper ways to fund detox programmes in Yorkshire. While understandable given a bad set of circumstances, this dilutes the overall quality of drug and alcohol rehab in Yorkshire. We take a different approach, investing in elite resources and cutting-edge techniques.
How does the NHS help with alcoholism in Yorkshire?
In the twelve months to March 2018, there were more than 3,000 admissions to North Yorkshire hospitals directly linked to excessive alcohol consumption. Such admissions have risen by 25% in a five-year span, underscoring the problems that exist in many Yorkshire towns and cities.
Across England, more than 300,000 people were hospitalised by alcohol-related abuse in the same time period. However, in the same five-year window, national alcohol-related admissions have only increased by 3%, distinguishing Yorkshire as a particularly worrying area in relation to alcoholism.
Accessing genuine treatment for alcohol and drug addiction through the NHS can be incredibly longwinded. Many addicts are discouraged from seeking rehab treatment when faced with long waiting lists and convoluted referral mechanisms. Some attempt to manage their own consumption levels, going ‘cold turkey’ and missing out on the benefits of a structured treatment programme.
The need for strong, private alternatives has never been greater. Alcoholics need tailored support to manage withdrawal symptoms and dispense quality aftercare. Here at Rehab Clinics Group, we provide that additional guidance, taking the time to strategise for success with each individual patient.
Why it is important to tackle alcoholism stigma
While the latest reports paint a damning picture, this does not have to be a shaming session for those who drink alcohol. It is crucial that we view alcoholism as a disease, not just a questionable lifestyle choice. The nature of addiction makes people powerless to stop the compulsions that are symptomatic of an illness. Nobody chooses to become an alcoholic.
Similarly, we recognise the importance of challenging stigma and creating a new culture surrounding alcohol misuse. We strive to develop a safe, non-judgmental context in which people feel comfortable opening up about their relationships with alcohol. Nobody should suffer a drink problem in silence. With Rehab Clinics Group, nobody has to.
Alcohol has become an accepted staple of society. Accordingly, we should not shy away from discussing such a prominent aspect of modern life. People should be able to admit their struggles without facing abandonment, rejection and shame. Taking the necessary steps to admit a problem and seek help should be applauded, not admonished.
Who is most at risk of alcoholism in Yorkshire?
Research suggests that, while addiction does not discriminate, certain demographics have a consistently higher incidence of alcoholism. For instance, men become dependent on alcohol far more often than women do. Likewise, young people can be susceptible to excessive drinking as parties become a standard part of student life.
Those who grow up in homes that feature alcohol abuse are more likely to encounter their own problems with drink. Similarly, poorer areas tend to have a footprint profile of alcoholism. The cycle of addiction, illness and unemployment is difficult to break, and many dependencies are generational.
As Christmas and New Year approach, bringing mass consumption across the board, the general risk of developing alcohol dependency is raised. The more we rely on alcohol to fuel parties and facilitate short-term happiness, the more we chase its supposed effects. That is a problem that society must face within its own culture.
Where to find the best alcohol rehab in Yorkshire
Though the number of alcohol rehab centres in Yorkshire has dropped considerably, there are still options for people seeking help. However, when attempting a full alcohol detox, spreading your search to encompass residential rehab options further afield is often helpful.
We have a number of facilities within driving distance of Yorkshire, positioning Rehab Clinics Group as a fundamental part of the potential solution. We have a proven track record of helping alcoholics rediscover a strong quality of life. With therapy sessions and programmes stretching to 28 days, we take a holistic approach to recovery that has delivered exceptional results.
Our friendly team is available 24 hours a day to answer any queries you may have and signpost to our vast array of personalised services. No two cases of alcoholism are the same, in Yorkshire as in any other town or city, and we take pride in getting to know your past history and future hopes.
Right now, Yorkshire may be suffering with increased dependency on alcohol, but that does not rule out a brighter tomorrow. By raising awareness, campaigning for change and delivering high quality services, we continue to blaze a trail of hope and innovation. Together, we can help Yorkshire conquer its present struggles and fight for a healthier future.