Drug Addictions
Drug addictions assists clients dealing with a variety of addictions as well as other psychological or psychosocial issues. The team employs a flexible rehabilitation strategy tailored to each client’s unique circumstances and needs. This approach has led to significant success in treatment outcomes.
Alcoholism represents the most severe form of problematic drinking, characterised by a powerful, often uncontrollable urge to consume alcohol. Individuals suffering from alcoholism frequently prioritise drinking over all other responsibilities, including work and family commitments, and may develop a physical tolerance or experience withdrawal symptoms upon cessation.
Alcoholism is sometimes referred too as alcohol addiction or alcohol dependence. It differs slightly from ‘harmful drinking,’ which describes an occasional drinking pattern that can adversely affect health.
An instance of harmful drinking could involve excessive consumption at a social gathering, leading to risks such as falls or conflicts. This behaviour may evolve into alcoholism if such harmful drinking becomes habitual and occurs regularly.
For a diagnosis of alcohol dependence, an individual must meet at least three of the following criteria (according to DSM 5):
A high level of tolerance, necessitating increased consumption to achieve the same effect;
The prolonged use and abuse of alcohol in larger amounts than intended;
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit;
Repeated unsuccessful efforts to reduce consumption;
Significant time spent drinking, obtaining alcohol, or recovering from heavy use;
Sacrificing relationships and social connections in favour of drinking.
Alcohol abuse persists even when the individual recognises its detrimental effects on health.
Drug addiction is a chronic condition marked by compulsive drug-seeking behaviour and use, despite adverse consequences and lasting changes in brain function. These alterations in the brain can result in the harmful behaviours observed in individuals who misuse drugs. Additionally, drug addiction is a relapsing condition, with relapse defined as the return to drug use following an attempt to quit. Tel 07811 606 606.
The journey towards drug addiction commences with the conscious decision to use drugs. However, as time progresses, an individual’s capacity to refrain from such actions becomes impaired. The pursuit and consumption of the drug evolve into a compulsive behaviour. This transformation is primarily attributed to the long-term impact of drug exposure on brain functionality. Addiction influences areas of the brain that are responsible for reward and motivation, learning and memory, as well as behavioural control.
Addiction is classified as a disease that impacts both neurological and behavioural aspects. Some of the substances that are frequently addressed include;
Cannabis
Excessive cannabis use can result in addiction. Among the associated side effects are alterations in sleep patterns, lethargy, irritability, paranoia, and distortions within the brain’s emotional centre. Furthermore, research has associated cannabis use with an increased vulnerability to psychotic behaviour and depression.
Cocaine
Cocaine is a potent and addictive stimulant derived from the coca leaves found in the Andean mountains of South America. While it has legitimate medical applications as an aesthetic, cocaine is predominantly used illegally for the intense euphoria it produces.
The abuse of cocaine can inflict significant damage on blood vessels and kidneys, while also heightening the risk of heart attacks or brain seizures. It may induce severe abdominal pain and a decrease in appetite. Psychologically, it can result in anxiety, paranoia, irritability, and insomnia.
Heroin
Heroin is a drug synthesised from morphine and is recognised as one of the most addictive illegal substances available.
In certain countries, heroin is prescribed as a pain reliever; however, it is typically sold illegally and often adulterated with substances such as sugar, powdered milk, or even toxic agents like strychnine. Due to the uncertainty regarding the actual potency of the drug or its true composition, heroin users are perpetually at risk of overdose. Additionally, heroin can reduce the oxygen supply to the brain, a condition referred too as Hypoxia. An overdose may result in laboured breathing, muscle spasms, convulsions, and potentially death. Tel: 07811 606 606