It is considered by medical professionals to be a disease, a brain disorder that drastically and negatively alters the ways in which you behave and think.
Once you are addicted to a substance, the problem only gets worse. As time goes on and you take or drink more and more, your tolerance goes up, and you need to consume more in order to satisfy the craving.
And the more you consume, the greater the risk of physical and psychological damage. The impacts of substance abuse can range from strokes to cancer, and it can wreak havoc on existing mental health issues such as depression or anxiety in severe cases, it can even bring these problems on.
And this is all without even mentioning the damage it can do to your personal life. It is not uncommon for addiction to interfere with work, potentially endangering your job and financial security, and all too often, victims of substance dependency lose romantic partners, friends or even family members as a result of the changes to their behaviour.
It is not easy to overcome a drug or alcohol addiction. Depending on the nature of the substance taken, weaning yourself off use can even be dangerous- withdrawal symptoms can be painful and sometimes even life-threatening. But you do not need to go through the process alone.
What We Do
At Addiction Advocates, we are dedicated to helping addicts overcome their dependency and achieve long-term recovery.
We work with a wide range of excellent drug and alcohol rehabilitation centres across the country, and it is our job to find the clinic and treatment programme that is best suited to help you in your battle.
You can get in touch with us at any time. All it takes is a phone call. We operate a 24-hour helpline so that we are always available.
Our specialised team of experts will always be there to provide help and advice regarding nearby rehab places for drug and alcohol addiction, and they can get you in touch with your chosen facility.
What to Expect Once You’re at a Clinic
Understanding the Rehab Experience
Going to rehab can be a daunting prospect. However, understanding what to expect can help alleviate some of the fear. Everyone’s experience will vary slightly, but most will go through a few typical stages.
Initial Detoxification
The first and often most thought-about phase is detoxification. During this stage, your body metabolises and eliminates the drugs and alcohol in your system. For some substances, like opioids, this process can be swift, with the body flushing them out in just a few hours. However, the challenge often lies in managing the withdrawal symptoms that follow.
Managing Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal can be both a physical and psychological ordeal. Symptoms might range from mild discomforts, such as headaches and stomach cramps, to more severe reactions like seizures and hallucinations. It’s crucial to undergo detox in a specialist facility where medical professionals can monitor and assist you. While it’s undeniable that this stage can be intimidating, you’re in the safest possible hands within a clinic.
Holistic Treatments Post-Detox
Detox is merely the beginning. Once you’re free from drugs and alcohol, the cravings don’t magically disappear. It’s vital to learn how to manage these cravings constructively. This stage involves various treatments centred around relapse prevention.
Therapy and Counselling
Mental health support often takes the form of therapy or counselling. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is commonly used, helping you rationally and calmly approach challenges, minimising the risk of reverting to substance use. Alternative therapies, such as art therapy, can benefit those uncomfortable discussing their feelings in-depth. Whether it’s one-on-one or group counselling, these sessions aim to delve into the root causes of your addiction and tackle underlying issues to prevent relapse.
Your Personalised Recovery Path
Every patient’s journey is unique, influenced by their individual circumstances. While the road to recovery might seem uncertain, know there’s a clinic with the right resources to guide you.
We’re Here for You
There’s no need to face this challenge alone. Contact us anytime via our admissions line, and we’ll connect you with a local rehabilitation centre in Southwark, setting you on the path to a comprehensive and enduring recovery.
How We Help
Finding the right treatment for your addiction can be difficult this is why we have created a service which takes the stress away which can be a massive relief when dealing with an addiction.
Self Referrals
Suffering with an addiction and being alone can be a horrific scenario for many. Whether you have a drug or alcohol addiction, we're here to help.
Family Referrals
Do you have concerns that a loved one may be affected by substance misuse? Have you spotted any signs and symptoms of a drug and alcohol…
