The key signs of porn, sex, and love addiction

Behavioural addictions can be harder to identify, as they’re often not formally recognised with clear diagnostic criteria. The objects of these addictions are also natural to enjoy when in moderation, so the line between healthy and addictive behaviour is blurry. It can result in many rationalising or dismissing the actions.

However, most process addictions share similar side effects, such as a strong desire to do something, a lack of control, and an inability to conduct daily tasks. There are also several signs to look out for specific to sex, porn, and love addictions.

What are the key signs of sex addiction?

This form of process addiction involves an obsession with sex — thinking about it constantly, spending excessive amounts of time planning the activity, and persistently engaging in sexual activity, whether on their own or with someone else.

When these urges take over, the individual might lie to hide their behaviours and conduct reckless sexual activity that could harm themselves or others, with little regard.

This behaviour could result in unhealthy relationships with sexual or romantic partners and an inability to carry out other responsibilities, including work. There are also several emotional implications of this addiction, such as feeling guilt and shame around behaviours, as well as experiencing anxiety and depression.

Sex addiction can also create money problems if paying for sexual activities without considering the financial impact. Additionally, it can pose health risks like contracting sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancies. In extreme cases, there could be serious legal implications if sexual offences are committed to satisfy urges.

What are the key signs of love addiction? 

Love addiction is particularly difficult to assess, as love can cause high emotional responses in most people. However, signs it has become addictive include feeling an intense need for contact with your partner, an overwhelming fear of being alone, and seeking out relationships regardless of the quality. It often comes with erratic behaviour and extreme highs and lows.

A lack of self-identity outside of a relationship is another indicator, as well as basing self-worth and happiness on being with a partner. Someone with love addiction may also hold their partner on a pedestal and engage in people-pleasing behaviour. Alternatively, co-dependent love addicts may have a desire to ‘fix’ a partner and be attracted to someone emotionally unavailable.

This obsession can make it hard to focus at work, conduct everyday tasks, or be present in other aspects of life outside of the relationship. These intense feelings towards a love interest can also influence poor life decisions, prioritising the partner to the point of harming relationships with family and friends.

A preoccupation with relationships and a craving for connection can become intertwined with a sex addiction. These behavioural patterns can lead to toxic or even abusive romantic relationships, causing severe emotional distress. In severe cases, love addiction can also escalate to stalking or violent behaviour.

What are the key signs of porn addiction?

Due to how accessible pornography has become online, unhealthy habits can quickly form. If you’re consuming enough porn that it interferes with daily life and it’s preoccupying your thoughts, it’s likely crossed a line. Those addicted may feel unable to stop watching porn even when they want to and during inappropriate situations. While porn addictions can exist separately, this fixation can also be part of a sex addiction.

Porn may become a coping mechanism or avoidance tactic for when difficult emotions arise. You may lose interest in anything outside of watching porn, as well as finding your sex life unfulfilling. This isolation could make it difficult to form new connections with people and harm existing relationships.

Porn addiction can also result in poor personal care, neglecting responsibilities, and developing guilt, shame and low self-esteem. These feelings can also develop into other mental health issues, like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.

Causes and triggers of sex, love, and porn addictions

There are several potential causes for process addictions, from psychological and biological factors to life experiences and cultural influences. As there’s often crossover with love, porn, and sex addictions, they all have similar triggers.

Neurological disorders

Neurological disorder is a broad umbrella term for conditions that affect the nervous system, including the brain. Disorders that affect the frontal lobe, temporal lobe, or dopamine pathways can impact impulse control, judgment, emotion regulation, and reward processing.

Types of neurological disorders that can have this impact are listed below:

Brain injuries

In some cases, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) can cause emotional dysregulation or attachment issues if the limbic system is injured, which could make it difficult to form or maintain existing healthy relationships.

Neurodevelopmental disorders

Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are neurological disorders that begin in early development, usually before birth or in early childhood. NDDs are often lifelong but not usually degenerative.

Of the calls to Rehab Clinic Advisory Service related to porn, sex, and love addiction, 485 of the individuals were also diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), either during or after treatment for the process addictions.

ADHD is one of the most common NDDs and can cause intense emotional responses that can lead to quick attachments. People with ADHD can also experience rejection sensitivity, which could create a need for constant validation. Some people with ADHD may experience hyperfocus, too, which could present as fixations on things of interest, such as porn, love, and sex.

Neurodegenerative diseases

Neurodegenerative diseases are progressive neurological disorders that can worsen over time and are often adult-onset.

Certain conditions like Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) can cause hypersexuality, a loss of inhibitions, and compulsive behaviours, which can lead to inappropriate sexual behaviour and excessive porn use.

Patients with Parkinson’s Disease and on dopamine agonist treatment can commonly develop Impulse Control Disorders (ICD), including hypersexuality.

Chemical imbalances

These addictions can also become a coping mechanism for chemical imbalances, which may develop from psychological trauma, mental health conditions, and neurological disorders.

The key chemical imbalances that can contribute to love, sex, and porn addictions:

Dopamine

Many mental health conditions and disorders, including ADHD, depression, and bipolar disorder, can cause dopamine deficiencies. Due to this imbalance, individuals may seek out dopamine hits, such as watching porn, having sex, and chasing romantic partners.

If the activity is pursued repeatedly, the brain may adapt to the dopamine release and require more of the behaviour to produce the same dopamine level. This tolerance may also motivate individuals to begin risky behaviour to achieve the same high.

Serotonin

Low serotonin can cause obsessive thinking and poor impulse control, which can contribute to the development or exacerbation of hyper-fixation and compulsive behaviour.

This imbalance is linked to a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, chronic stress, PTSD, substance abuse, OCD, sleep disorders and more.

Oxytocin

Oxytocin is released during romantic and physical intimacy, promoting emotional bonding and attachment. Individuals with attachment disorders or trauma may become reliant on this feeling as a way to seek validation through sex and love.

Low oxytocin levels have been linked to depression, the autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and panhypopituitarism, a condition in which the pituitary gland doesn’t produce enough of the hormones it would ordinarily.

Endorphins 

The natural opioids are released during orgasms and emotional closeness, which can elevate the mood. People may become addicted to the ‘endorphin rush’ as a form of emotional pain relief to help them cope with difficult emotions.

Those with a low endorphin production — which can occur from stress, depression, substance abuse and more — might be more prone to seeking out this feeling.

Norepinephrine Imbalance

This chemical regulates arousal and can spike during the experience of falling in love and sexual excitement. Too much norepinephrine (NE) can cause impulsivity and emotional reactivity, whereas those with low levels may seek out behaviours to stimulate the chemical.

Causes of low NE levels include ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, and low blood pressure, and conditions related to high NE levels include anxiety disorders, chronic stress and substance use.

Societal and circumstantial impacts

Media and cultural influences can drive these process addictions, including portraying unrealistic romantic ideals and hyper-sexualisation and normalising pornography use.

Social pressures could contribute to sexual behaviour, and the stigma around addictions and mental health conditions could prevent some from seeking help. Other research found the increase in working from home created a new temptation for those with porn addictions.

Specific life situations can also be a trigger, such as feeling unhappy in a relationship or dissatisfied with sexual activity could lead to porn addiction as an escape. The loneliness many felt during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns also intensified the reliance on porn for intimacy and arousal.

Previous relationships could also trigger abandonment fears, low self-esteem, and a lack of self-love, which can all contribute to a love addiction. Individuals who had a lack of secure attachments in childhood or traumatic experiences may become dependent on compulsive behaviour as a coping mechanism.

Genetic factors

Genes don’t directly cause addiction, but can make people more susceptible to addiction. Genes can shape brain chemistry, impulse control, and emotional sensitivity, which increases the risk.

The most telling sign of a genetic predisposition to addiction is a family history of addictive behaviours. Addiction running in the family indicates a combination of shared genes and a shared environment.

Connection with substance abuse

Both process addictions and substance use activate the brain’s reward system with dopamine. As the brain builds tolerance to this release, it prompts the need for either more of the same or another source of stimulation.

As substances like alcohol and drugs can lower inhibitions, they can also lead to risky sexual behaviours, just as compulsive sex can trigger cravings for substances. Sexual activity and drug use are also commonly present in the same environments, therefore blurring the boundaries between addictions. Both substance and process addictions can also be coping mechanisms for emotional difficulties.

Those in early recovery from substance abuse are vulnerable to developing love, sex, and porn addictions — seeking a replacement ‘high’ and managing the discomfort of withdrawals. 

Who is the main demographic?

Due to the various factors that can contribute to addiction, the main demographic can vary, and as research is limited around these conditions, it’s difficult to pinpoint.

However, of the calls to Rehab Clinic Advisory Service for sex, love, and porn addictions, 65% were based in London and home counties, and 82% were aged between 35 and 59 years old.

In a 2023 survey of British schoolchildren between 14 and 18 years old, a fifth of respondents said they watched pornography frequently. Of those students, one in five admitted they had a porn habit and one in 10 felt addicted.

Another study found that Pornhub had the most visits from users based in the United States, with over three billion visits in January 2024 alone. The countries that followed were Indonesia, Brazil, France and the Philippines.

Additionally, 7% of women and 10% of men in the US reported significant levels of distress and/or social impairment associated with compulsive sexual behaviour — significantly more than researchers had previously estimated. In contrast, other studies have found that 8 to 10% of women reported signs of love addiction compared to 3 to 5% of men.

How to treat love, sex, and porn addictions

The recovery goals of these addictions can vary depending on severity. Undergoing treatment with medical health professionals can help you find and work towards appropriate goals that address the behaviour itself, the emotional and psychological triggers, and any underlying conditions.

Psychotherapy

Various psychotherapy techniques can help individuals understand and manage their triggers. Psychotherapy is a form of talk therapy in which a therapist guides you to talk through your issues, with some incorporating exercises, and helps you process any arising emotions. Individuals, couples, and groups can undergo psychotherapy.

Types of psychotherapy include:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Focuses on replacing negative thoughts and behaviours with healthy coping mechanisms.
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Uses acceptance and mindful strategies to change your relationship with thoughts rather than the thoughts themselves.
• Psychodynamic Therapy: Explores the unconscious mind to help you understand how your past shapes current feelings and behaviour.
• Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR): Uses talk therapy and side-to-side eye movements to help you process traumatic memories.

In-patient and out-patient treatment programs

When recovering from an addiction, individuals can seek in-patient or outpatient rehab treatment programs, which have different levels of structure and intensity.

What is inpatient treatment?

This option involves staying in a residential rehab centre for a set duration to focus solely on recovery. It typically involves group or individual psychotherapy alongside mindful activities in an immersive and healing environment with 24/7 supervision.

Although it can be intrusive on a person’s life and more expensive, it reduces the risk of relapse. Inpatient treatment is recommended for individuals with long-standing or severe addictions.

What is outpatient treatment?

Outpatient treatment involves attending regularly scheduled sessions while still living at home. This option allows more flexibility, is often more affordable, and can promote real-life trigger management. It can be effective for those with mild addictions and a strong support network, but it can limit progress as there’s still the opportunity to engage in compulsive behaviour.

Of the Rehab Clinic Advisory Service calls analysed, 43% of the individuals entered residential treatment for these addictions combined with substance abuse. Another 36% took up either face-to-face or virtual rehab therapies.

Support groups

Support groups involve regular gatherings, either in person or virtually, of people with a shared issue to talk about their experiences and offer support.

This option differs from group therapy, which is determined by a clinical diagnosis, conducted by licensed mental health professionals, and focuses on helping people change.

Support groups don’t require a diagnosis, can be led by peer leaders or volunteers, and are often more informal. However, both types of group sessions offer different perspectives and a sense of community.

Medication

While there isn’t a specific medication for these process addictions, medication may be prescribed to treat underlying psychiatric conditions tied to the behaviours. For example, SSRIs for OCD, anxiety, or depression, and mood stabilisers for bipolar disorder or ADHD.

Aftercare

After undergoing formal recovery treatment and the addiction is properly managed, aftercare is a crucial part of maintaining long-term recovery. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for an aftercare plan, which may include attending ongoing therapy sessions, support groups, or check-in programs.

Lifestyle changes

As well as treatment, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is an important aspect of managing addiction as it builds a solid foundation for recovery.

To help balance brain chemistry, regulate emotions, and support overall brain function:

• Incorporate regular exercise into your routine
• Eat a balanced and nutritious diet
• Prioritise a solid sleep schedule
• Engage in mindfulness (e.g., meditation, positive mantras, and journalling)
• Drink water to stay hydrated

In early recovery, it’s also helpful to eliminate or minimise exposure to external triggers, which may include screen time, alcohol use, and dating apps. Internal triggers, such as loneliness, sadness, and boredom, will likely occur, but making lifestyle changes can help you respond to triggers in a healthy way that doesn’t cause relapse.

Although sex, porn, and love addictions aren’t as widely recognised, they can cause huge disruptions to people’s lives and lasting damage. It’s important to seek help and guidance if you or your loved one is struggling with these compulsive behaviours.

For whatever reason, some clients do not want to engage in a twelve step treatment model when they enter into treatment: This is their choice and, while the majority of centres use a traditional twelve step approach, there are those centres that offer an alternative. That is not to say that a twelve step approach has not help hundreds of thousands of people to overcome addiction and is ineffective, just (as with anything thing in life)people have choice: especially if someone is paying for it!

STRENGTH is a eight stage approach to drug and alcohol rehab treatment. It is done, alongside medically assisted withdrawal (where necessary) as soon as someone is physically able to participate. It is a general philosophy, quite rightly, that clients take control, ownership, of their recovery so it is important that a client engages in a treatment model that they feel will benefit them and one they feel  comfortable in.

The Strength model follows a eight stage approach. It is a systemic model where clients are able to map their progress from stage one: onwards. This has been shown to be important in the early stages of recovery as goals and recovery targets need to be bite size and achievable, in addition to being measurable.

Clients move on from one module to the next, once they have successfully completed it. Within each module are a number of worksheets to complete. Whilst it is a systemic model, it can be flexible.

The strength model follows what are known as core principles. These underpin the therapy model and process. The first core principle is that, when a client seeks treatment, it is an indication that their denial and rejection of acceptance of help has dropped to a level where therapy will assist them.

To recognise that someone is in denial is to recognise that denial is a defence against anxiety and also an expression of shame as it relates to the condition of addiction. The Strength model holds that recovery necessitates that a client feels enough hope and power to be able to take change on board: to embrace it and all it brings. This mode of treatment also holds that a client brings their own strengths and assets when entering treatment. This is known as recovery capital.  In order to deliver and measure outcomes, treatment goals, activities are broken down so that they can be small enough for a client to achieve, that outcomes are measurable and that also they are achievable. Overarching this, targets need to be realistic.

When a client enters into a STRENGTH model of therapy, there are some important milestones. The first of these is the clients life story. As this is the first stage of the STRENGTH programme it is designed to help a client to centre themselves. Often described as a road map, it can also be described as a “you are here” in their life and also in the environment. This document of also allowing peers, in treatment, to understand that person. As with the traditional twelve step model, this life story is read out during a group. Clearly, for some clients, it can be very challenging to read out: It can dredge up a lot of difficult and painful memories. However, as difficult as reading this out may be (and difficult for the audience to hear) it is vital to the client’s recovery and starts the “opening up” process. The second element is known as “addiction and me”. This works from the premise that those in addiction actually grieve the loss of their dependency, that this is normal and part of the recovery process. The STRENGTH model works from the premises that, at times, the addiction would have served the person well. The purpose of this module is to assist the client to track their past, the consequences of addiction and then to come to understand themselves better. This is done so that a client can then make positive choices and more informed decisions: moving forward.

The STRENGTH model works towards preparing clients for the future: post discharge. Within this philosophy there is a belief that, for a clients future, two rules should be kept in mind, firstly, that admitting you have an addiction, coming into treatment and having to acknowledge mistakes should not be all encompassing. In other words: do not let it kill you. It is important to be kind to one’s self , to allow sufficient time to rest and to allow space and time to reflect. Also, that it is very important not to set unrealistic targets, not to set unachievable goals and not to have unrealistic expectations. The final element is that clients are encouraged, when they leave treatment, to “start from where they find themselves” This means that not everything in a clients life needs to be changed. Sometimes very little actually needs attention.

A very important element, and one which can often be ignored by clients is that of how to ensure sobriety/abstinence is maintained (relapse prevention). This module is, clearly, something that gives the client ongoing work and is aimed at reflecting the maintenance stage. As with admission to hospital for surgery, it forms part of discharge planning. To simply present this element to a client on the last day would not assist. It is essential that clients become aware of the concept and practice of relapse prevention while they still have the support and structure of the support systems in a treatment centre.

Treating the body

Treating the body to help get over a physical addiction is a crucial part of any rehab program as it involves putting the body through detoxification and then withdrawal, a process that isn’t always pain-free or easy. Not only does a holistic program help you through alcohol detox and withdrawal, it will also help you to repair any damage that the substance abuse has caused. Learning about a healthy diet and engaging in practices such as yoga or massage to ease the physical pain of withdrawal can all play a key part in a holistic program.

Treating the mind

An addiction almost always never just happens on its own; there are often other factors that drove the patient to substance abuse in the first place. Holistic treatment restores the mind by identifying and treating these factors through therapy. Any psychological factor that has had an effect on the patient’s life can be treated including major depression and bipolar disorder.

Individual treatment plan

No two people are the same, and so a holistic or alcohol rehab clinic offers individualised treatment for every patient. Even if two patients are being treated for a similar problem, the best treatment to help them through will not be exactly the same, and this is where holistic rehab excels. A drug rehab centre that offers holistic treatments can differ from an alcohol rehab clinic, yet both will help you to find the rehabilitation program that works best for you so you can go back to being your old self again. So take time finding the right drug rehab and alcohol compare against any alcohol rehab clinics. most do both and there a special clinics for your needs too.

Please contact Serenity Addiction Centres anytime for any information

Alcohol, Drug Rehab

Since setup, thousands have taken that journey with RehabClinics.Org.uk part of Serenity UK group of websites, Advanced Clinics for Addiction Treatment and assessments, recognized as working with best of the most successful and innovative private rehab clinics for addiction and rehabilitation in the country.

With Rehab Clinics in Bournemouth, as well as locations in Bedfordshire and Luton, Kingston upon Thames, Warrington, Chelmsford and Scotland, also further afield Countries like Spain, Cyprus, South Africa and Thailand.

The RehabClinic.Org.uk Institute is known as a leader in Drugs, Opiate, Alcohol, and Benzodiazepine detoxification treatments, as well as eating disorders therapy.

More specifically, The RehabClinics.Org.uk group has helped to free patients of substance abuse and addiction to Prescription Drugs, Heroin, Methadone, Cocaine, and other Drugs.

It’s noted for its use of the great Detox Clinics in combination with a number of therapies to treat addiction, including CBT and NLP with one to one counselling and group which is safer, more effective and less costly than other treatments.

More than 99% of its patients have been successfully and comfortably detoxed through this method. And being placed into the right drug rehab or alcohol treatment clinic makes all the difference.

People who depend on drugs or alcohol know full well how daunting it can be to pick and make a commitment to sobriety and for good. But they don’t have to face another year fighting with addiction alone. In the able and merciful hands of the treatment consultants and counselling staff at RehabClinic.org.uk, 2010 can signify the first day of the remainder of their healthy new drug or alcohol free lives.

If you or someone in your family has a Alcohol or Drug Addiction problem, RehabClinic.Org.uk will help finding a successful alcohol drug rehab program can be a life-saver. Just talking to someone who really understands what you are going through can make a difference. Call 0800 118 2982 now for free expert advice.

The RehabClinic.Org.uk has helped thousands of clients recover and get over the consequences of alcohol, heroin use and other drugs like Methadone, Cocaine and Prescription Drugs.

The mixture of the Rehab Detox Clinics Strategy with a counselling care program is what makes it unique among addiction treatment clinics and its success rate so high.

Are you suffering from problem substance or alcohol use? For many people, the progression from sustainable drug or alcohol use to an addictive state can be a long and gradual one.

In these circumstances, it can be difficult to realise that some form of drug rehab or alcohol rehab is necessary. If you’re displaying any of the following behaviours, it could be the case that you would benefit from drug or alcohol detox:

• Hiding the extent of your drinking or drug taking from others
• Planning your life around your drinking or drug taking
• You find that you need an increasing amount of drink or drugs to achieve the effect you want
• When the drink or drugs wears off, you feel ill, suffer from mood swings or have other unpleasant side effects
• Your drink and drug taking is affecting your relationships, employment, interests or other important aspects of your life.
• You find it difficult to cut down or cease your use of drugs or alcohol

If you recognise any of these behaviours in yourself or someone you care about, it could be the case that drug detox or alcohol rehab could be the solution.

Why not talk to one of our experienced team for some free advice on your issues and what options could be available for help with what may be an addictive disorder.

Long-term drug or alcohol misuse can cause significant issues

Most people find that once an addictive disorder has developed, they need professional assistance to overcome the problems it causes. Left untreated, an addiction to drugs or alcohol tends to grow steadily worse over time:

• Sufferers become increasingly dependent on their drug of choice
• Many face financial problems as their ability to hold down employment diminishes and the cost of their addiction rises
• Addicts may resort to dishonesty and even criminal behaviour in order to obtain supplies of drugs or alcohol
• Relationships with partners, friends and family can become increasingly strained
• An addict’s world can narrow, with feeding their addiction becoming a priority.

The longer an addiction continues, the more entrenched addictive behaviour can become. Treatment is available! Talk to one of our drug and alcohol counsellors now about your options for alcohol rehab in London.

Prescription drug detox is also available

The popular image of a drug addict as someone who uses illegal substances in a problematic way isn’t necessarily an accurate one. Although there are people who require drug detox because of addiction to heroin, cocaine or other illegally obtained substances, there are also a growing number of individuals who are finding that they are using prescription medication in an addictive manner.

Prescribed by a GP or other appropriate individual, perhaps to treat chronic pain or a mental health problem, individuals find that, over time, their use of the drugs ceases to be therapeutic and becomes increasingly problematic. Signs that you or someone you care about may require prescription drug detox include:

• Needing to take medication long after the complaint for which it was prescribed has been resolved
• Needing increasing amounts of medication to feel “normal”
• Encountering significant side effects when attempting to discontinue or reduce dosage
• Resorting to faking symptoms or exaggerating them in order to obtain repeat prescriptions
• Taking more than the recommended dosage
• Becoming increasingly mentally agitated at the thought of being without the medication
• Finding that the amount of medication you are taking is affecting your mental or physical health adversely.

Just because a drug has been prescribed by a doctor, it isn’t necessarily safe to take long-term or in large amounts. Our trained counsellors can talk you through your options when it comes to prescription drug detox.

For many people “just quitting” isn’t the right option; in some circumstances, “going cold turkey” can actually cause significant physical problems which may require emergency attention.

If you’re concerned about your prescription drug use or feel that some free drug detox advice in London could be of value, our team are here to help. Just give us a call to find out more about your options for skilled, professional and compassionate prescription drug detox and alcohol detox in London.

What types of treatment are available for drug and alcohol detox?

Recognising that you need help is one of the most important steps on the road towards recovery and a drug-free life. It’s important to realise that there are lots of different forms of alcohol and drug rehab; no two people are exactly the same, so it makes sense that a range of treatments should be available to suit everyone.

When you turn to us for assistance with drug detox, our team will be able to advise on the type of options which are available, giving you the information you need to make decisions which are right for you and your family.

We understand how difficult it can be to face up to an addiction; we are not here to judge; rather, we offer the compassionate, supportive care you or someone you care about needs in order to stand the best chance of successfully beating their addiction.

There are a number of different types of drug and alcohol rehab available; these include:

• Inpatient alcohol or drug rehab
• Outpatient drug or alcohol rehab in London
• Home drug rehab

Inpatient alcohol detox

Addiction is not simply a mental health problem, it is also a physical problem. Over time, an addict’s body undergoes a series of physiological changes in order to accommodate increasing amounts of drugs or alcohol. Suddenly depriving an individual of the addictive substance can cause severe physical issues; addicts can and do die from inappropriate withdrawal.

Particularly if you have a significant addiction, or have other physical or mental health issues which would make reducing the amount of drugs or alcohol you use extremely difficult, an inpatient facility could be right for you.

At an inpatient treatment centre, patients do not go home at all for the first few weeks of their treatment. Withdrawal is undertaken with close medical supervision. Individuals will be prescribed medication to reduce the unpleasant effects which withdrawal can have, as well as having fully trained and qualified medical staff on hand should emergency treatment be required.

Once withdrawal has been achieved, patients at a residential, or inpatient, facility will be given assistance from trained therapists to recognise and challenge their addictive behaviour, as well as be equipped with a toolkit of strategies and options to minimise the risk of using again. Although not the right option for everyone, residential London alcohol detox can be a good option if:

• Your addiction is at a level where medical supervision is required for a safe detox
• You are concerned that the ready availability of the addictive substance in your usual environment will make quitting impossible
• You do not have reasons why an outpatient detox would be preferable (addicts who are eager to keep their employment, or who feel that having their family around them during their detox would maximise their chances of success may feel that an outpatient detox may be a more suitable choice).
• You have additional mental or physical difficulties which mean that a heavily supervised detox is most appropriate.

For anyone who’s not sure about the benefits of an inpatient drug or alcohol detox in London, our friendly team are on hand to offer confidential, free advice on your options.

Outpatient drug rehab

A popular choice with many clients, an outpatient drug detox programme usually consists of a number of daytime or evening treatment sessions, coupled with on-going support as and when required for some time after the actual detox has taken place. Clients who opt for an outpatient programme will return to their home or alternative accommodation each evening. Therapy may take the form of all-day work or may be on a piecemeal basis as and when required. Outpatient treatment has the following advantages:

• Clients can retain their employment, undertake essential childcare duties and spend time with their loved ones at the same time as undergoing the detox process. For many people, this enables them to retain a semblance of normality and can assist in successfully managing their addiction.
• There is an enormous variety available in the type of treatments being offered. Because each client benefits from a customised solution, it’s possible to shape a programme of intervention which is designed to meet individual need. This not only results in a more targeted treatment regime, it also increases the chances of compliance. Individuals can access therapy at times to suit their lifestyle, optimising attendance.
• Outpatient care is usually much cheaper than residential care. People with an addiction are able to get the support they need for far less.
• Success rates for outpatient intervention are good in comparison with other methods.

Outpatient care is usually more suitable for people who are not at an advanced stage of addiction, or who have responsibilities which mean that inpatient care is just not going to be a viable option for them. Fortunately, with the right type of outpatient support, it’s possible to manage many different addiction problems successfully.

Why not get in touch with our patient care team to find out more about your choices when it comes to outpatient drug and alcohol rehab?

Home drug or alcohol detox

In some cases, addicts are unable to attend regularly for outpatient treatment and are unable to access inpatient care due to childcare or other commitments.

In these circumstances, a home drug detox could work really well. A home detox, as the name suggests, is where an addict receives help from a trained worker in their own home.

If necessary, medication may be prescribed to manage any physical difficulties encountered during the detox process. Staff provide the support needed for withdrawal, at the same time as beginning to put the right building blocks in place to participate in the on-going support necessary for sustained abstinence.

Following a home detox, the aim would usually be for patients to attend a selection of therapy sessions, groups and other therapeutic activities, in order to give them the help they need to remain in remission.

A home detox may be suitable for:

• People who have mental health problems which limit their ability to interact with others or attend appointments on a regular basis
• Those with mobility issues who find attending regular appointments outside the home a challenge
• People whose circumstances preclude them from taking part in an inpatient or outpatient treatment plan
• Individuals who would prefer the flexibility and customised nature of a one-to-one support programme

If you feel that a home detox may be right for you or someone you care about, call us now for free addiction support advice and information. We can tell you more about the options which are available, as well as discuss with you the pros and cons of each.

As an established provider of a wide range of drug and alcohol rehab, we are ideally placed to advise on what might be right for your particular situation.

Types of care available for drug and alcohol detox

Through our years of working with addicts, we understand that no two people are exactly alike when it comes to the type of treatment they need in order to manage their addiction.

We work with each patient individually, designing a tailored schedule of intervention that addresses not just their addiction, but also their mental, physical and spiritual well-being.

We often find that addiction is only “the tip of the iceberg” when it comes to the issues our clients are struggling with. For this reason, we have access to a wide range of interventions which can be drawn on as our clients need them. Although some types of intervention tend to focus on physical or mental healing, the end aim is always to provide a package of care which helps to heal the entire individual, as well as give them the skills and insight they need to cope with their addiction.

Broadly speaking, the types of interventions available for drug and alcohol detox are as follows:

Medication

Particularly if someone has a significant addiction, medication may be needed to help with withdrawal symptoms. This medication may be needed in the acute stages of withdrawal or may form part of a package of longer-term support and management – call us for free advice on addictive disorders and the type of treatment that may be on offer. In some cases, additional medication may be needed to cope with problems which the addiction has been masking.

Many people with a drug or alcohol problem also have mental health issues such as anxiety or depression, as well as potential physical problems. Appropriate medication to help treat these difficulties can increase the chances of managing an addiction successfully. In some cases, patients may need to stay on medication for some time in order to keep addiction cravings at bay.

Talking therapies for drug detox

There is a wide range of talking therapies on offer, which can be tailored according to what is going to be most useful for the patient. Typically, the therapies on offer include:

• Counselling
• Family therapy
• CBT
• Group therapy

Other types of therapy may be available if required.

Life skills for successful sobriety

In many cases, patients need to relearn how to live in a sober manner. We understand that, even when a patient has gone through withdrawal, it’s not always easy to stay sober.

A large part of our work is supporting individuals in learning how to make good choices, resist temptation and gain insight into the type of circumstances where temptation may be particularly difficult to deal with.

In some cases, this may require individuals changing how they socialise, attending support groups on a regular basis, learning distraction techniques or learning to recognise their triggers and working proactively to minimise the risk of engaging in destructive behaviour. This type of support may be needed for quite some time, as some people need several attempts at sobriety before they are able to enjoy longer-term abstinence.

Relaxation and holistic therapies

These are typically intended to enable individuals to feel better about themselves and their bodies. Many people find that after withdrawal they feel anxious and tense. The following therapies can help to manage these feelings in a positive manner:

• Massage
• Yoga
• Meditation
• Aromatherapy
• Reiki
• Gentle exercise

Our team can help you try a variety of different activities until you find a mix that works for you. Call us now to learn more about alternative treatments for addictive disorders.

When used alongside conventional medicine and talking therapies, alternative therapies can play a key role in sustaining sobriety, as well as promoting feelings of health and well-being. Engaging in alternative therapy also provides a positive way of passing time which might previously have been spent drinking, taking drugs or engaging in other types of destructive behaviour.

Nutritional advice to assist drug and alcohol rehab

Not only can the right nutrition improve mental health, it’s also essential to enhance physical well-being. A significant proportion of people with addictive disorders neglect their physical health, often eating unwisely or insufficiently.

We use trained nutrition experts to offer a selection of advice and guidance to our patients, helping them to make healthier choices. A common issue following withdrawal from an addictive substance can be weight gain. Our team are available to help minimise the risk of this happening, supporting you or someone you care about towards better physical and mental health through appropriate nutrition and supplementation. Ring us for FREE advice on addictive disorders and the type of treatment that we can provide.

Healthy lifestyle advice and support as part of drug rehab

It’s no use replacing one addiction with another! We work with individuals to ensure they work towards a balanced, moderate lifestyle. In addition, we do a significant amount of signposting to ensure patients are aware of support services of many different types in their local area.

For many addicts, the most difficult part of their drug detox is when their care is minimised and they are required to take greater responsibility for their sobriety. Often addicts face issues such as poverty, poor housing, on-going physical and mental health issues and a variety of other social problems.

We try and ensure that all our patients have access to agencies who can assist with these matters. Our team understand how addiction is often a way of coping with difficult life circumstances. Our aim isn’t just to enable our patients to beat their addiction, it’s also to try and make sure they have the support in place to lead sober, profitable lives.

Q&A

What should I do if I think I’ve got an addiction?

The sooner you receive appropriate help, the easier it will be to manage the problem. If you suspect that your drug or alcohol use is adversely affecting you or people that you care about, fast access to the help you need is vital. Call us now for FREE advice and counselling on addictive disorders. We can help you identify what type of assistance is going to be best for your individual requirements.

How long does the drug or alcohol detox take?

Decreasing physical and /or mental dependency on a substance may take a considerable period of time. Call our team to talk through your individual circumstances. They will be able to give you an idea of time scales, as well as work with you to agree a schedule that will work for you. The level of care usually varies through time – we are always on hand to work with you when you need it.

Will I ever be cured of my addiction?

The problem with an addiction is that, even if a person becomes sober, there is always the chance of a relapse. Unfortunately, some addicts can remain sober for years, then a chain of events will trigger a relapse. We generally say that the people we help are given the tools they need to manage their addiction successfully. What this means is that hopefully, not only will they be able to stay sober, but, in the event of a relapse, it becomes easier for them to “get back on the waggon”.

Do I have to be an inpatient for drug or alcohol detox?

No, not necessarily. In some cases it may be advisable to detox under intensive medical supervision, but not always. Particularly if a gradual tapering method is being used or a patient is starting some form of drug replacement therapy, an outpatient or in-home detox may be perfectly possible. Call our team now for further information on addictive disorders and the options for a treatment environment that works for you and your family.

How hard is it to beat an addiction?

Obviously this varies from person to person. Generally, the longer an addiction has been continuing, the harder it is to stop and stay stopped, because undesirable behaviours are entrenched. That said, change is always possible. We have managed to help desperate addicts return to sobriety, even when they believed there was little or no hope. For more help and information on addictive disorders and how we can help, call us now.

Patients who suffer from addictions and addiction disorders find that they have an intense and overwhelming focus on repeating the behaviour or taking the substance, to experience a sensation or to satiate a need, even in the knowledge that this will be detrimental to the patient’s health going forward.

However, there are plenty of support systems out there which offer addiction help to those seeking it, as well as help and advice to friend and family of addiction sufferers. We offer free, quality advice for sufferers of all types of addiction disorders.

With help and support, addiction sufferers can seek treatment and go on to lead a normal, healthy and productive lifestyle.

Why does addiction happen?

People may begin taking drugs, gambling, drinking, changing the way they eat or using the internet in any number of ways and for any number of reasons. Addictive disorders and addictions can occur very quickly or develop slowly over a long period of time.

Many different expert bodies have agreed that the four most common reasons for people to begin an addictive behaviour are as follows:

• To feel good – the pleasure of a high or a win, even if for a very short burst
• To feel better – stress-relieving, as a temporary release from mental health conditions, as a way of coping with excesses of emotion
• To improve performance – to artificially change reactions or to accelerate a path to a goal or personal target
• Curiosity – a desire to try something for the first time to see what all of the fuss is about
• Peer pressure – influenced by friends, family and other acquaintances

What are the risks of addiction?

Addictions to different substances and behaviours will carry different risks.

However, a common theme among all addictions is the increased tolerance to the addictive substance or behaviour. As patients fall further into the depths of addiction, they will find themselves needing more and more to satisfy the craving.

This increased base level needed to satisfy the craving means that with addiction there is an exponential increase in the risk of associated health issues. For example, as larger quantities of substances are consumed, although the fix may feel less strong, the impact of the drugs on vital organs will be increasing. This accelerates the path to ill health.

What are some of the symptoms or consequences of addiction disorders?

The difference between the symptoms and the consequences of addiction disorders can be difficult to distinguish. However, most of the symptoms and consequences can fit into one of the following six categories:

1. Lack of control

People suffering with addiction find that they have an overwhelming and intense urge to use a substance or to resort to a behaviour which satisfies a certain craving. This craving begins to rule over the patient, taking over from other emotions or rational thoughts and dominating their lifestyle and decision-making.

2. Difficulty socialising

Addiction disorders can take over all elements of a person’s life, and this can lead to a real difficult to foster and maintain relationships with other people. Addiction sufferers often find it impossible to maintain friendships, hold down jobs, make a good impression on new people and may find that family relationships suffer too.

3. Financial problems

Many addictions can be expensive. Gambling, substance abuse and alcoholism all require a considerable amount of money to maintain, often money which the patient does not have. Other addiction disorders take over the person’s life in different ways which can make it impossible to keep a job, which leads to financial difficulty in a different way.

4. Risk to personal safety

As patients become more desperate for a fix, they often resort to more drastic measures in order to satisfy their craving or complete a compulsive behaviour. This could cause the person to engage in illegal or highly dangerous activities which put themselves, or others, at risk of serious injury, harm or repercussions.

5. Associated Health Problems

Taking dangerous substances, denying your body food, sleep or compulsively repeating harmful behaviours will start to take a physical toll on the body. This leaves the body open to different diseases, infections and even organ damage as a result of addiction. This category also includes associated mental health issues resulting from addiction disorders.

6. Effects of the drug or substance

This category of symptoms and consequences only applies in cases where the addiction disorder refers to a substance. Whilst tolerance to substances will increase with increased exposure, the substances will continue to have an effect.

There is plenty of help available for people who suffer from addiction disorders, and their families who may also be affected by the consequences of these disorders. Drug addiction treatment, alcohol rehab treatment and all other addiction treatments all begins with quality, free advice about how to best to seek treatment and help recovery from addiction.

Addiction Disorders

There are many different types of addiction disorders. Although they share some common traits and associated consequences; each type of addiction is different and therefore affects the patient in different ways. Some of the overarching free advice for addiction sufferers will be common for all types of disorder, but much will depend on the type of addiction

Before getting to know the different treatment advice for each type of addiction, first we need to know what differentiates each of these conditions.

The most common types of addiction include:

• Drug Addictions
• Alcoholism
• Eating disorders (and gym addiction)
• Gambling
• Sex addiction
• Internet Addiction

Drug Addiction

There are lots of different types of drug addictive disorders and addictions, but these can largely be split into 2 categories: prescription and non-prescription drug addiction. It is possible to become addicted to eithers.

Drug addiction causes chemical changes in the brain, and makes a person completely dependent on the effects of a particular legal or illegal pharmaceutical. These brain changes are often temporary, and can be reversed through treatment and avoidance of the substance going forward.

Drug addiction is known as a ‘relapsing disease’ as although complete recovery is attainable, patients can experience exactly the same symptoms, sometimes in an exaggerated form, if they ever take the drugs again.

Alcoholism

Alcohol dependence is very similar to drug addiction, although the key difference is that it often creeps up on a patient more gradually.

Alcohol is commonly used as a coping mechanism, and the line is often blurred between recreational use and dependency. As alcohol is widely available and social acceptable, complete recovery and sticking to treatment guidance can be extremely difficult.

Eating Disorders

It may seem counter-intuitive for eating disorders to be classed as an addiction.

Compulsive eating is an eating disorder and an addiction. It is possible for some people to be addicted to comfort eating, using the instant pleasure of taste to cope with certain emotions or feelings.

Even eating disorders which comprise denying the body of food, can also be classed as addictions, as patients become addicted to the behaviour associated with food deprivation.

Gambling Addiction

An addiction to gambling is sometimes referred to as compulsive gambling or a gambling disorder. It is a problem which affects impulse control, which stops people from being able to control their instincts and impulses when it comes to gambling.

It doesn’t matter whether the person has the money to fund the bet or not, or whether there will be serious consequences for family and friends as a result. Whether they are up or down, a person with a compulsive gambling disorder will continue to gamble, even when they know that they cannot afford to lose or that they stand little or no chance of winning.

Sex Addiction

Sex addiction can encompass a whole range of different disorders where a person’s need for sexual activity becomes out of control. This could refer to an out of control amount of sex with a partner, but also refers to conditions where a person is addicted to masturbation, pornography, relying on the services of prostitutes, webcam sex and chat lines.

In the majority of cases, people’s sexual activity remains in moderation, but for a small percentage of the population, their relationship with sex becomes a compulsive and addictive one.

Those with sex addictions are no longer able to control their urges, despite them being potentially inappropriate. It can involve high-risk sexual activity which stops being fulfilling in its own right, but which the person is unable to stop.

An addiction to sex can lead to the breaking down of romantic and sexual relationships, as well as difficulties in normal social situations.

Sex addiction can also lead to an unrealistic and unreasonable expectation of sex with a partner.

Internet Addiction

There is still a lot of research being done into what defines an addiction to the internet. Many of us think that we would be lost without our phones, but in reality, we would find it straightforward, if a little inconvenient, to cope without the internet for a day, or a week.

Those suffering from internet addictions could find it impossible to live without video games, social media or other forms of digital entertainment. They will find it increasingly more difficult to be away from technology and engage in the real world.

A person addicted to the internet or a type of digital technology would find themselves experiencing withdrawal symptoms such as severe anxiety and depression even at the thought of being separated from the piece of technology.

Addiction Treatment

Not all addiction disorders are the same, so not all ways to treat addiction should be the same. If there is a root cause of the addiction, such as trauma, chronic pain or a mental health condition, this root cause should of course be addressed as part of the treatment for the addiction disorder.

There are many different treatment programmes out there for people who suffer from addiction, as well as free advice and support for friends and family of addiction sufferers.

In all cases of addiction, the first step towards recovery is always for the individual to recognise that they have a problem and to want to seek help. There is little which can be done to help individuals who deny that they have a problem with addiction, or who does not want to be helped with their disorder. Intervention from those who are close to the individual can often be a trigger for them to get help, but will not help in all cases.

Once a person suffering from an addiction has decided that they would like to seek help, trained healthcare professionals can make an assessment to formally diagnose an addiction disorder. Many people who would benefit from treatment for their disorders are unwilling to seek help, despite the obvious benefits to doing so. This becomes difficult if a patient refuses to engage with treatment programmes.

Addictive disorders and addictions begin to affect every aspect of an individual’s life. It is not like other health issues, where an operation, set of therapies or course of medication is enough to restore the patient to health.

Addiction sufferers need a much more holistic combination of treatments which can help to re-engage the patient with society, as well as dealing with the causes and symptoms of their addiction disorder.

Treatment for addiction disorder therefore encompasses a combination of medical, social and psychiatric treatments to help get the individual regain control of their life. The most common types of treatment for addiction disorders include:

• Hospitalisation
• Rehab centres or communities
• Sober houses
• Outpatient support programmes ie. An addiction clinic
• Self-help groups
• Medical intervention
• Prescription medication

Medication is sometimes used in treatment for addiction, although it is rarely the main part of treatment. It can be used to control and supress cravings, replace harmful substances with controlled, safer options, restore the function of organs which have been damaged as a result of the physical effect of substances on the body or to help patients suffering from certain mental health conditions.

Psychotherapy is a common part of addition treatment, helping patients to better understand the root cause of their addiction, and how they might cope without the substance or behaviour they are addicted to.

Not all of these treatments need to be formally prescribed by a doctor or healthcare professional. Group therapy sessions run by organisations such as Alcoholics Anonymous are a vital pillar of support for many addiction sufferers and a key part of their recovery.

Drug Addiction

Drug addiction treatment is complex and will often involve many different types of therapy, could potentially include courses of medication and will certainly require a lot of determination to complete.

Substance abuse treatment is not easy. There is no quick-fix solution and this is precisely why many individuals never seek or complete the course of treatment.

The addiction is sometimes easier to maintain than the treatment, despite the potentially fatal dangers and risks it carries.

The first steps towards drug and alcohol addiction recovery sound simple, but are often the hardest to take, as they require serious willpower to overcome the controlling and compulsive nature of addiction.

There is plenty of free advice on how to get started on a recovery journey, but here are the first steps:

1. Admit that you have a problem and accept that you need help
2. Make an appointment with the doctor, or attend a drop-in clinic to talk about
3. Have a formal assessment to establish your individual needs for your substance abuse treatment
4. Engage in the drug and alcohol treatment open to you and continue to ask for support where you need it.

Alcoholism

Alcoholism is not an uncommon addiction disorder. Most people can name at least one person in their life who has been affected by a problem with alcohol addiction. The road to recovery is possible but can be long and difficult. Each person’s treatment journey will be different, as each person will experience alcoholism in a slightly different way.

Depending on the seriousness of the alcoholism suffered by a patient, and the extent of their dependence on alcohol, the alcohol addiction treatment plan may start at a different point.

Brief Intervention

For patients who are worried about their drinking but who may not yet be experiencing serious and life-threatening implications on their health, a brief intervention may be the first step.

This intervention might last just 5 or 10 minutes, and will walk the patient through the risk of drinking, ways to reduce alcohol intake and the various different alcohol addiction treatment services and options available. At this intervention, the patient may be recommended to start a drinking diary, or to start swapping every other drink for a non-alcoholic one. Lowering your alcohol intake, or stopping drinking immediately are both options to help with alcohol dependence, but will only work for patients with a low-level dependence on alcohol.

Alcohol rehab treatment

Treatments for patients whose dependence on alcohol is very high will often involve hospitalisation or rehab programmes. This will come either as a result of the patient being hospitalised following serious secondary health problems or if the patient voluntarily seeks treatment for their addiction.

Rehab centres and specialist alcohol clinics will use a combination of counselling, group therapy, medical management of withdrawal and medication in order to treat each patient’s addiction.

Eating Disorders

There are many different types of eating disorders, all of which affect patients in different ways and therefore require different treatment plans. For example, a compulsion to overeat will have different causes, symptoms and consequences than a compulsion to deprive the body of food. However, there are some common treatments which span many different types of eating disorder. These include:

Talking therapy

Aside from treating the medical implications of an eating disorder, the main course of treatment is to try and understand the psychological roots of the patient’s compulsion, in order to help them to manage this in different ways. The most common treatment for this is individual counselling. Group counselling is not often offered as a treatment for eating disorders, but may be an option for a small number of patients.

Hospitalisation

Eating disorders can begin to have a physical effect on the body very quickly if they are causing the patient to change their eating habits in drastic ways. This can lead to hospitalisation or admittance to specialist clinics in order to monitor the patient and ensure that their physical and mental health does not deteriorate.

Gambling

Compulsive gambling is a type of addiction disorder which can be treated in much the same way as many other addiction disorders. The main ways to treat addiction to gambling include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and individual and group counselling.

There are many free advice and support services for those who have problems gambling, including services which offer rehabilitation programmes for those with very severe cases of gambling addiction.

Gambling problems can be the result of other mental health issues, or can be a root cause of mental health issues, which may require further treatments than those mentioned above.

Sex Addiction

As with all addictions and disorders, sex addiction can be almost impossible to overcome without professional addiction help and treatment.

Admittance to hospital

In the most extreme cases, it can be necessary to remove a person suffering from a sex addiction entirely from the day-to-day setting of their routine and lifestyle. This is particularly important in serious cases of sex addictions as these can pose a danger to the partners of sex addicts and potentially to strangers in their vicinity too. Inpatient treatment gives patients the opportunity to regain control of their lives through access to individual and group counselling, as well as medication as necessary.

Recovery programmes

There are structured and supported recovery programmes which can help patients to overcome their addiction or compulsion without having to be admitted to a hospital or addiction clinic. These programmes will provide more structure and routine than counselling or group therapy sessions, but do not completely take over a patient’s life.

Individual counselling

It might not be necessary for patients to be admitted to a sex addiction clinic, but they may still benefit from individual counselling or therapy. Counsellors can help patients to understand the cause of their compulsion, as well as offering coping strategies and support systems to help aid recovery and regain control of their lives.

Group support sessions

Group therapy can be a helpful way of reminding patients that they are not the only ones to be suffering from their particular addiction disorder. They also give the chance to share stories, and to help understand their own behaviour in a different light. It is a chance to feel supported and understood as well as an opportunity to swap methods of dealing with their condition.

Internet Addiction

Internet addiction is a relatively new condition and there is much debate within the industry as to whether it can be classed as an addiction in the same way that the other disorders in this article can be. However, even professionals who do not class a compulsive internet user as an addict do realise that such disorders can be damaging and do require treatment.

There are four treatments which are most commonly used to help patients with internet addiction disorders. These are:

Reducing the amount of time spent online

This can be by employing apps which block certain sites for periods at a time, by using sheer willpower or by switching off the Wi-Fi. The first port of call for internet addiction treatment is to reduce the time spent online.

Counselling

Excessive and compulsive use of the internet can often be a coping strategy for or a symptom of an underlying mental health issue. CBT and counselling can be used to treat the root cause of the addiction and help patients to manage their compulsions.

Peer support groups

Group support puts addicts in contact with others suffering form the same condition and it can be helpful to know that patients are not alone in their struggle. Coping strategies and stories can be shared between those suffering with similar conditions in order to provide support and offer help.

Coping methods

The internet is a huge part of most of our lives, so cutting it out entirely is almost impossible. Those struggling with internet addiction will therefore need to find methods of coping with their compulsions so that there are able to use the internet in a more restricted and less damaging way. All of the treatments listed above can help patients to discover such methods.

People who suffer from alcohol addiction come from all sorts of backgrounds and walks of life. While we may all have the stereotypical image in our minds of someone who sits in a park at night with a cider or drinks cans of beer on public transport, people with alcohol addiction come from a broad social spectrum.

No matter whether you are on a low income or have a high flying career, alcohol addiction issues can be identified not from your background but from your behaviours. Visiting alcohol rehab centres for a stay is something that all sorts of people have been known to do, and there’s no shame in doing it.

Here are some major signs that you may be experiencing an alcohol addiction issue:

• You have feelings like guilt or shame around the amount you are drinking, and you regularly hide receipts, empty bottles or other evidence
• You claim to others that you drink much less than you actually do
• You feel like you would not be able to give up alcohol if you had to, and you believe that you can’t enjoy yourself without drinking
• You regularly experience negative consequences from drinking, such as sickness, tiredness or “blacking out”
• You find yourself drinking alcohol when there is a risk that being drunk could cause serious harm to you or others around you, such as when you are driving or operating equipment which requires serious focus and concentration
• You are rearranging your commitments to your family, friends or employer in order to accommodate your drinking, or you are finding that your drinking behaviours are interfering with your ability to carry out your daily tasks
• Your tolerance is gradually becoming stronger, and you are finding that you can drink more and more without becoming drunk

There are, of course, many more possible signs of alcohol addiction, and the above list is not exhaustive. By the same token, you may exhibit some of the above signs and not have an alcohol problem – although if you do have a number of these characteristics, it is advisable to speak to a doctor or the admissions team at one of your local alcohol rehab centres.

Recognising the problem: Drugs

Drug and alcohol addictions share a number of characteristics – and alcohol is, after all, itself a drug. But they are subtly different in a lot of ways, and this is due to everything from the legal status of supply and possession to the destructive effects stronger drugs can have.

If you are experiencing a drug addiction and need to visit drug rehab, you may be exhibiting certain signs which will help you identify your problem. And while these signs are not always the same for every person, they often act as hallmarks of an underlying set of issues.

• You suffer from significant financial problems due to frequently buying expensive drugs, and are unable to cover your important costs such as housing or bills as a result of spending money on drugs
• You have recently built a new friendship group, either in whole or in part, containing people who also take a lot of drugs
• You experience strong cravings for drugs when you are not taking them, and this gets in the way of your normal thought processes
• When high on drugs, you find yourself deciding to commit risky behaviours such as unsafe sex, high spending or committing crimes
• You find that you have taken so much of the drug that your tolerance is very high, and that over time you increasingly need to take the drug in larger and larger quantities in order to feel effects which were once felt from much less
• You find that when you are no longer taking drugs your behaviour, outlook and/or moods are different, and that you find it difficult to do things – such as working or creative tasks – which seem easy when you are taking drugs

If some of these symptoms apply to you, it’s possible that you have a drug addiction problem which needs to be addressed by a professional at a drug rehab facility.

5 important ways to support a loved one with addiction issues

If you yourself are not experiencing addiction issues, it doesn’t mean you won’t be touched by these problems during your lifetime. The other main way in which you could find yourself being affected by addiction problems is if a loved one develops issues and you find yourself looking out for them.

If you’re a parent, for example, you may find that one of your children – or later your grandchildren – develops a dependency. Your partner may find themselves struggling to control their addiction issues, or you may even find yourself needing to look after a sibling or a friend.

There is no magic formula which sets out how to behave if you find yourself looking after someone who suffers from alcohol problems. But there are some general tips you can follow which can both help you move towards a solution and also make your life easier.

1. Accepting it’s not your fault

If you’re in a position where you’re looking after someone with addiction problems, it’s easy to think that you’re not doing enough and causing the person to get worse. Some people may even start to blame themselves for the problems beginning in the first place.

It’s vital for both yourself and your loved one that you accept that you did not create the problem, and that you cannot make it go away. Once you have come to terms with this, you’ll be able to put aside any misplaced feelings of guilt and focus all of your energies on getting the help you and the person need, perhaps from one of your nearby alcohol rehab centres.

2. Get professional help with detoxing

As a caregiver it may be tempting to set in stone some house rules which prevent your loved one from accessing their drug. But with some addictions, going cold turkey is not always the most effective way to cause the change you’re looking for.

In fact, in some cases going cold turkey can make the person worse and expose them to health risks. Instead, you should focus your energies on getting the person some professional help, perhaps at a drug rehab facility. That way medics can take the decision about how best to wean the person off the substance using a range of facts, such as what the substance in question is and how severe the addiction is.

3. Come up with a plan of action

If defeating addiction was as simple as taking someone to the doctor, then the problem wouldn’t exist any more. But there are, sadly, all sorts of potential stumbling blocks in place between working out that addiction is present to being fully cured.

Potential pitfalls you will need to manage include the risk that the person you’re looking after will try to resist offers of help, or that you won’t be able to cover the cost of attending one of your town or city’s rehab centres. By working out a plan of action in advance, you’ll be able to prevent these issues before they arise. This could include an intervention, for example, or it may mean freeing up cash from somewhere else to pay for medical treatment.

4. Don’t give up

Professional help is not a silver bullet, and even once you’ve got a professional or two on side to help you it’s still not guaranteed that the issues will be overcome. It’s likely that there’ll be several stages ahead, including checking into rehab centres and integrating back into society afterwards.

Even when things are going well, you also need to prepare yourself for the possibility of one of the most saddening and frustrating milestones of all – a temporary relapse. The best way to do this is to celebrate small achievements with your loved one – such as a certain number of days sober – while also remembering that the ultimate goal is long-term.

5. Look after yourself

As a caregiver for a person with addiction issues, it’s likely that you’ll be experiencing a lot of stress and even pain. Whether it’s physical problems like lack of sleep due to worry or the issues you’re facing are more psychological in nature, it’s to be expected.

That’s why it’s important to make sure that you too are looked after. Make sure, for example, that you have someone who is removed from the situation to talk to, whether it’s a friend, family member or partner. You should also make sure you schedule in time to yourself so that you don’t become overwhelmed by the caring work you’re doing, and to allow yourself to focus on something else for a while.

The role of rehab centres

Alcohol rehab centres and drug rehab centres are often associated in the public mindset with American public figures or showbiz stars.

But did you know that there are lots of rehab clinics here in Britain? In fact, there’s probably one or more in your town or city – and they play a vital role in helping people who are suffering from addiction issues get back on their feet.

Each rehab facility varies in what it can offer you, but there are some common threads which bring them all together. When people check into rehab centres, it’s normal for them to undergo a medical assessment by a trained professional such as an in house GP.

This is normally so that they can have their precise alcohol intake worked out and a bespoke treatment plan drawn up which suits their needs. In some cases, this is also an opportunity for the new resident to be prescribed medication which will help them be weaned off the substance they are addicted to in a medically controlled manner.

Life inside alcohol rehab centres or similar drug facilities is not as bleak as it may seem to an outsider. As well as therapy sessions designed to help people understand their problems, the places are meant to be peaceful and offer an oasis of calm for those who are going through tumultuous stages in their lives. Plus, there are often amazing exercise, outdoor and relaxation activities planned, such as massages or walks.

Many modern facilities are also keen to make sure that the surroundings are comfortable, too. That means you can expect decently furnished places with all the modern conveniences, including on site laundry facilities.

In terms of entertainment, there’s lots going on at rehab facilities. One particularly nice aspect of alcohol rehab centres or drug rehab centres is that they are often specifically designed to bring people together. Some addictions can cause the patient to experience problems such as isolation, so being able to come together and have a laugh and a chat with other people is excellent for your outlook and wellbeing – especially if it’s been a long time since you last managed it.

What happens during a detox: your questions answered

Going through a detox is something that won’t be easy. When your body has become so used to receiving the substance on a regular basis, it will start to expect to get it – and when the substance is then not forthcoming, your body can react in difficult ways due to the sudden scarcity.

For those going through an addiction problem, detoxing is something that should be done only in a medically controlled environment where trained staff can monitor what’s happening and pick up on any problems as and when they occur. That way, you won’t find yourself inadvertently making the problem worse.

Here are some of the key questions people ask about detoxing if they or their loved one is about to embark on a detox journey.

What changes will happen to the body during a detox phase?

There are several distinctive bodily events that can happen during a detox period. While it’s not guaranteed that you or your loved one will experience a particular one, it’s likely that you’ll experience some of them.

It’s possible, first of all, that you’ll experience some significant psychological or mental health issues even when giving up in a managed way. It’s possible, for example, that you will feel depressed or anxious due to changes in your brain as it readjusts to not processing the substance you previously took.

A common physical side effect of detoxing is a headache. You may also start to experience problems related to your stomach such as being sick or feeling nauseous.

In order to manage these symptoms and ensure they do not become dangerous, detoxing should occur in a medically managed context.

Is giving up entirely, straight off, the right way to do it?

You might have heard the phrase “cold turkey” in association with addiction problems. Usually, going cold turkey means moving from a position where you take large quantities of the substance in question to suddenly stopping all intake of the substance whatsoever. In some circumstances, this can be a good thing to do – but in others, it can cause your body to make things even worse.

The risks of going cold turkey are simply another reason to speak to medical professionals before taking the plunge and giving up your substance use. In many cases, a managed reduction in your consumption is necessary for a healthy and sustainable addiction-free future.

What medications are prescribed to those detoxing?

Whether or not you or your loved one will be prescribed medication to assist with the detox process depends on a wide range of factors. A medical professional will make the decision, and it will be the right one for your personal circumstances.

For those who do get prescribed something, there are certain medications which are often used.
These include disulfiram, naltrexone and acamprosate, while certain anti-depressant medications are sometimes used too.

The most common form of treatment, however, is not medication at all. At alcohol rehab centres, you will usually experience lots of therapy to help you tackle the underlying causes of your addiction. In the long term, this may well prove to be the most effective tool in your arsenal for tackling the issue and making sure it remains defeated as you go back into your normal daily life.

The importance of good aftercare

One you or your loved one has gone through an alcohol or drug detox programme, it’s important to remember that they are going to need to keep up the good work for longer than just the few weeks for which they are a resident.

Alcohol rehab centres or drug rehab centres are very different environments to the outside world. While it is not sealed off from all aspects of a resident’s previous life, it is in the main free from the temptations that living back in the real world can have, such as access to dealers or proximity to pubs and supermarkets.

Rehab is also in some ways removed from the stressors that sometimes cause and fuel people’s addictions, such as work or relationship problems.

To reduce the risk that problems will come back to affect you or your loved one following a stay in alcohol rehab centres, it’s important to enrol in and commit to an aftercare system which keeps the treatment going for the long term.

Here are some facts and nuggets of information about aftercare programmes and how they can help those who are leaving rehab centres.

No two aftercare programmes are identical in every way, but there are lots of similarities between them. The ultimate aim of the aftercare programme is to prevent a relapse, and that means commitment is needed.

Aftercare programmes also keep the former resident connected to the centre and allows staff there to monitor their progress. In some cases you may still be able to see the medical professionals you previously worked with while you were a resident at alcohol rehab centres, although you should confirm this with your centre as it is not always the case.

In the event that a relapse happens while the aftercare programme is ongoing, it also means that the connection between the centre and the former resident is still in place and it’s much easier for the person to re-enter the facility full time.

Aftercare programmes can last for different lengths of time. In some cases, they can last up to one year and are accessible once you’ve completed a residential stay of a particular duration.

Committing to the aftercare programme for its entirety is essential. It’s not necessarily the case that the programme will be “frontloaded” (having all the relevant information at the start): in fact, it’s often the case that the long-lasting and positive effects of aftercare programmes fully kick in later once a few sessions have been experienced.

Some aftercare programmes contain a family workshop element, too. This is designed for the former resident and their family to come together to fully understand how best to prevent relapses in the future, and also to help families deal with any negative memories they may have of their family member’s addiction problem.

The philosophy of these kinds of workshops is that addiction – and other problems – are best tackled head on with an effective communication system in place. If that’s not there, it can sometimes prove very difficult for a suitable recovery environment to be created.

It’s not easy for families and loved ones to face up to traumas, and sometimes – understandably – all you want to do is bury your head in the sand. But by facing up to the truth and dealing with everyone’s feelings, it’s often possible for families to overcome even the worst of addiction traumas and come out stronger for it.

Not all aftercare programmes revolve around you living as an independent adult who checks in periodically for therapy or workshops. There are also lots of other formats available: you might, for example, be offered the opportunity to live in a halfway house where you can experience some care while also re-building your skills for living as an independent, addiction-free adult.

Some aftercare programmes may also offer, or require, drug or alcohol testing as a way of measuring relapses and ensuring they do not go untreated. If this is something you would like to explore, you should speak to your provider and ask if it is the right option for you.

Paying Bills
Making Doctors Appointments
House Work
Cooking
Shopping for Themselves.
Self-Care
Keeping Appointments
Not Getting into Work

When a person’s life is ruled by substances, the substance will always come first. The substance of their
choice becomes the centre of the universe. The addict rejects themselves, and any people, places or
things that are surrounding them.

An addict will go to any lengths to fund their addiction this can result in them committing a crime and
ending up going to prison. Or a person my stop paying their mortgage and lose their home, this can
leave the person in great financial debts. Both of these examples are outward unmanageability.

There also will be what is known as the internal unmanageability. Daily a person who is abusing
substances will be struggling to cope with any thoughts, feelings and emotions. An addict can experience
a number of emotions throughout the day.

Guilt
Shame
Remorse
Regret
Self-Loathing
Sadness
Anger
Desperation
Loneliness

The addict will fall apart and not be able to cope as these emotions arise for them. For example they have an
argument with a loved one, instead of resolving the argument they will be more likely to leave and use. Or even
something as simple as missing a bus, can cause a massive overreaction to their emotions. This can lead them to
fall in to a mental melt down.

All addicts need structure and daily routine when they enter recovery. Over a period of time they will
need to address the consequences of their unmanageability.

They can do this by sitting down with someone and making a plan. Looking at all the bills they need to
pay, and asking that they are consolidated in to one debt. Any court orders that have been passed will
need to be seen out, and all appointments will need to be attended.

Over time relationships that have been damaged by a persons unmanageable behaviour can be
repaired. Repairing relationships is a process both parties will need to heal from any harms that may
have been caused.

A daily routine will need to take place, getting up at the same time in the morning ,trying to eat meals at
the same time each day is another form of structure. Getting to appointments on time or even attempting
to get their early is another way to regain structure in a person’s life.

By working some kind of recovery model, be it the 12 steps, or SMART recovery and Holistic Therapy’s a
person will learn how to manage and maintain any emotions, or feelings they are experiencing. They will
gain the tools on how to do this without the use of substances.

Recovery is about regaining what was lost due to substance misuse. Hundreds of thousands of people across the
world are living happy, fulfilling, productive lives, along way from the unmanageable chaotic lifestyles they once
knew.

Alcohol dependency has the power to ruin a person’s life. A reliance on alcohol can have an impact on finances, work and relationships and unfortunately, it is a problem that is not easy to overcome.

An estimated 586,000 people in the UK currently depend on alcohol, and since the substance is so cheap and widely available, there’s little wonder it’s a habit that’s so hard to kick. Unfortunately, only 18% of people living with alcohol dependency are currently in treatment. [1]

Treatment for alcohol dependency isn’t simple or easy. Giving alcohol up ‘cold turkey’ is physically and emotionally taxing, and can even be dangerous should severe physical withdrawal symptoms occur. Many people experience intense alcohol cravings while trying to quit and in these instances anti-craving medications can be helpful.

In this article, we’ll explain how anti-craving medications work and the role they can play in helping people to overcome their dependency on alcohol.

Controlling alcohol dependency

Only 5% of people who are dependent on alcohol are capable of returning to a controlled level of drinking without total abstinence, according to Noeline Latt in her book ‘Addiction Medicine’. [2] For most people, the only way is to quit alcohol completely and live a life of sobriety, but this is not an easy process and unfortunately, relapses are common.

Treatment for alcohol dependency is necessary to minimise the risk of relapse. It is rare for patients to quit alcohol completely overnight, particularly if they are being treated outside of a rehabilitation environment.

Many people find it helpful to set short-term targets, such as staying sober for a month – then two, then three, and so on – rather than face the daunting task of maintaining sobriety for the rest of their lives. There are many steps involved in overcoming alcohol dependency, and managing the initial withdrawal period is just one of them.

Strategies for beating alcohol dependency include:

– Accepting the reality of dependency rather than denying it
– Motivational interviewing to increase the desire for treatment and a better future
– Residential rehab if necessary
– Changes to key lifestyle factors such as diet, sleep schedule and exercise regime
– Use of 12-step programmes and/or support groups
– Family therapy
– Treatment of co-occurring physical health and/or mental health conditions
– Cognitive therapy, behavioural therapy, and/or holistic therapy
– Medically supervised detoxification
– Pharmacotherapies such as anti-craving medications

Value of pharmacotherapies and anti-craving medication

Medications used to treat alcohol dependency are known as pharmacotherapies. They can be used alongside other treatment programmes and coping strategies to reduce cravings, make drinking less pleasurable, or even deliver negative reinforcement in the case of one particular drug called disulfiram.

Pharmacotherapies are usually only prescribed after seven days of alcohol withdrawal. This is because withdrawal symptoms can be extreme and dangerous, and some of them are similar to side effects caused by pharmacotherapies. Doctors need to be sure which symptoms are caused by withdrawal in order to properly monitor their patients’ health.

It’s important to note that anti-craving medications should not be solely relied upon to overcome alcohol dependency, but they can help to reduce cravings in order to help patients avoid drink while they undergo therapy and other treatment methods.

Naltrexone and nalmefene

These two drugs are opioid antagonists, which mean they interrupt the normal function of the brain’s opioid receptors. Alcohol usually triggers a pleasurable feeling due to its impact on endorphins and opioid receptors, but naltrexone and nalmefene inhibit this process and reduce the amount of pleasure that alcohol brings.

The effects of naltrexone remain in the body for 24 hours, while the effects of nalmefene can last for weeks or months. This means that nalmefene can make it harder for a patient to relapse, but otherwise, the two drugs work in a very similar way.

A study into naltrexone found that a daily dose of 50mg for three months cut rates of relapse by up to 50%. [3] However, this was when the drug was used alongside psychological therapies to control alcohol dependency.

Naltrexone and nalmefene are usually prescribed at least seven days after initial withdrawal from alcohol. Common side effects include nausea and diarrhoea. For optimum benefits, patients should be engaging in a broad treatment regime involving therapy, detox and support groups.

Acamprosate

It isn’t clear how the anti-craving medication acamprosate works, but experts believe it antagonises glutamate in the NMDA receptor. [4] Heavy drinking can cause a flawed reward system in the brain that leads to alcohol craving, and the action of acamprosate is to interrupt and therefore correct this flawed system.

Meta-analyses on acamprosate studies have proved that it can support sobriety, but there are mixed results when it comes to research into the drug. However, its side effects are mild and since it can be prescribed for up to a year after initial alcohol withdrawal, it can be a helpful medication for treating dependency.

Disulfiram

When alcohol is consumed with disulfiram, it creates a toxic compound called acetaldehyde. This creates very unpleasant physical side effects such as:

– Nausea
– Headache
– Hot flushes
– Low blood pressure
– Heart palpitations

Even very small amounts of alcohol, such as low levels found in foods and cough medicines, can trigger these unpleasant symptoms when a person takes disulfiram. The idea is that patients are negatively conditioned to avoid alcohol because the effects of drinking while taking the medication are so uncomfortable. It can be taken no sooner than a day after alcohol consumption, and patients cannot drink sooner than a week after stopping disulfiram.

However, it is important that patients are of sound mind and fully understand the risks involved should they drink alcohol when taking this medication. It is not suitable for people with psychosis or cognitive impairment. Patients with heart disease or hepatic disease cannot safely take disulfiram either.

Other medications that can help

There are a few other medications that are still being studied for efficacy in treating alcohol dependency or are used less commonly than those outlined above.

Topiramate is an anti-convulsant that, according to a limited number of studies, appears to be good at helping patients to avoid alcohol consumption. Potential side effects are drowsiness, loss of balance, and weight loss. The drug is therefore not suitable for people who are malnourished. More research is needed before it becomes widely used for alcohol dependency.

Ondansetron is an anti-emetic that has proven to be somewhat effective in helping males to abstain from alcohol. Much more research is required to understand how it might be a helpful tool for sobriety.

Baclofen can help to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. It seems particularly helpful for patients with cirrhosis, but more studies are required to fully understand its efficacy.

SSRIs are used to treat depression and can therefore be useful for people with alcohol dependency who have also been diagnosed with depression. Alcohol dependency can be a symptom of depression, so it makes sense that in treating the depression it is possible to reduce the urge to drink. However, SSRIs should not be prescribed to people who do not have depression in an attempt to reduce their alcohol cravings.

Final thoughts

With several different varieties of pharmacotherapies available, there’s a reasonable amount of choice for people to find medications to help them quit alcohol. Some work by reducing the enjoyment of alcohol, others reduce cravings, and some produce unpleasant side effects when taken with alcohol.

Coping with cravings is one of the hardest aspects of quitting alcohol. Pharmacotherapies can certainly reduce cravings to give patients the best chance of staying sober while they undergo a broader treatment plan.

References
[1] https://alcoholchange.org.uk/alcohol-facts/fact-sheets/alcohol-statistics
[2] Noeline Latt, Katherine Conigrave, John B. Saunders, E. Jane Marshall and David Nutt, Addiction Medicine, Oxford University Press, (Oxford, 2009), p. 124.
[3] Latt, Addiction Medicine, 2009, p. 125.
[4] Latt, Addiction Medicine, p. 126.