According to a recent government report, Scotland has “a troubled relationship with both alcohol and drug use”. On average, every adult in Scotland is drinking over a third more than the lower-risk guidelines of 14 units per week – and many individuals will be drinking far more than that. The prevalence of illegal drug abuse is harder to measure but one study found that there were between 55,800 to 58,900 problem drug users involving opioids and the illicit use of benzodiazepines (benzos) alone.
Drug and Alcohol Rehab West Lothian
These are worrying figures, but it’s important to remember that every statistic represents an individual human being who is struggling with these issues. Addiction can destroy a person’s physical and mental health. It can wreck families and relationships, ruin work, and negatively impact all aspects of their life. No one chooses addiction, and breaking free from one is not as simple as deciding not to drink or use drugs anymore.
It is very difficult to beat addiction without expert help, but it can be successfully treated. If you are struggling with a drug or alcohol addiction, drug and alcohol rehab in West Lothian could be your best option.
The Importance of Finding a Drug and Alcohol Rehab
Getting over an addiction is not a simple matter, and no matter what some people still think, willpower alone is rarely enough.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse says: “Addiction is defined as a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite adverse consequences. It is considered a brain disorder, because it involves functional changes to brain circuits involved in reward, stress, and self-control. Those changes may last a long time after a person has stopped taking drugs.”
When you add a physical dependency, which can result in intense cravings and a range of unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when the substance is removed, you can start to see why it is so difficult to overcome addiction without expert help. One choice is to attend a Private Drug and Alcohol Rehab where you can rest, reset and recover with the finest care and evidence-led, scientifically proven addiction treatment techniques.
What are the Benefits of Residential Rehab?
Drug and alcohol treatment available via the NHS is often quite limited. There may be long waiting lists, and most recovery programmes are community-based. This means you remain at home and attend treatment and support sessions at clinics or other settings. This can be difficult if you are struggling with organisation or motivation due to substance misuse issues.
You will also be exposed to your usual triggers and temptations. It can be particularly difficult to come through detox and withdrawal when you know that you can easily secure drugs or alcohol to alleviate the symptoms.
With residential drug and alcohol rehab you will be in a tranquil yet secure environment with no access to drugs or alcohol. The whole setting is geared towards recovery, with round-the-clock support and the chance to go through a supervised detox. You will also undergo a holistic programme of therapies and workshops that are designed to help you explore the root causes of your substance abuse and address the psychological aspects of addiction.
Treatments at your Rehab in West Lothian
For most people, the first major step of a residential rehab programme is detoxification or detox. This is the process during which your body expels the drugs or alcohol already in your system, as well as the period following it. This can be challenging, especially if you suffer physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms. Not everyone does and the experience can vary depending on the substance involved and other factors. They can be very unpleasant and potentially dangerous, so it is always best to detox in a supervised environment like rehab if this is possible.
Alcohol and drug detoxification is a key step but it is not enough to just get clean or sober up. You also have to learn how to stay that way, which is where the psychological and therapeutic side of rehab comes in. Daily therapy sessions at Asana Lodge include recognised techniques such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), psychotherapy, group therapy, family therapy and mediation therapy.
You will also take part in relapse prevention sessions to learn how to develop strategies to avoid relapsing when you leave. Even so, the weeks and months after rehab can still be challenging. This is why we also offer a 12-month aftercare package to provide ongoing support when you need it.
There is a complex but the recognised relationship between mental health, substance misuse and addiction, with each element affecting the other to some extent. People with addictions often also suffer from mental health issues at the same time. These different strands can be assessed and treated simultaneously, generally known as dual diagnosis treatment.
Alternative Therapies at Asana Lodge
At Asana Lodge, we also offer a number of alternative therapies that are not always available at other rehabs. Well-being therapies available include meditation and mindfulness sessions, art therapy workshops, relaxation and sleep management techniques, nutrition workshops and self-help sessions.
We also offer sauna detoxification and a Satori Chair (also known as the ZRO Touch Wellness System). This uses sound frequencies and vibration therapy, which can provide a number of benefits and is like treating your mind and body away to a sensory spa.
Get Help Today
Leaving an addiction untreated is storing up trouble. Every day of continued drinking or drug use can continue to cause damage to your physical and psychological health, relationships, finances and everyday life. Help is available though and all you need to do is get in touch. Even if you decide that residential rehab is not the right choice for you, we can give you confidential help and advice.
Get in touch today and find out how we can help you take your first steps towards recovery and a more positive life. Or call on 01908 489421.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does addiction affect mental health?
Yes, addiction can have a massive effect on a person’s mental health. Addiction often intensifies a person’s current mental health issues as substances cloud the mind and impair judgement. Drinking or taking drugs can worsen depression, heighten anxiety, and start a cycle where a person feels they can only cope with their mental health problems by self-medicating with those substances.
What happens when I leave rehab?
That depends on you. After rehab, the recovery journey is not over as the rest of your life waits. Taking advantage of our aftercare package and remaining vigilant as you attend weekly support meetings is essential to staying clean. Using all you have learnt during your time with us, hopefully, you can lead a fulfilling life free of addiction.
What is the difference between substance and behavioural addictions?
The main difference between substance and behavioural addictions is that those who develop a substance addiction will become reliant on drugs and alcohol. In contrast, behavioural addictions see sufferers engage in harmful behaviours, such as gambling and shopping. Although there are many differences between substance and behavioural addictions, both disorders require treatment if they are to be overcome.
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