If you have experienced addiction, or even been around it, you know how destructive and problematic it can be. Ending this cycle of self-destruction requires treatment, and if you are serious about getting help with drug or alcohol addiction, the best course of action is to go to rehab.
It offers a level of care and commitment that you simply do not find anywhere else. Here at OK Rehab, we arrange referrals to quality private rehab clinics around the UK.
We do this through a telephone consultation, which you can begin by calling us 0800 326 5559. We also provide a great deal of information and advice for free over the phone.
If you’re not ready to call us yet, have a look through the information below to get a better understanding of how rehab works.
Recognising the signs of addiction
It is important to be honest with yourself about your own level of substance abuse. If you find yourself spending almost all of your time and money on drugs or alcohol, it is almost certain that you have developed an addiction.
The same is true if your substance abuse has damaged your personal, family, romantic, or professional relationships – for example, if your using has led to losing a job, or a partner leaving you.
If this applies to you, it is advised to reach out for professional help as soon as possible. There is no shame in developing a drug or alcohol addiction, as it is something that could happen to anyone. However, it is something that needs to be treated.
Overcoming denial of addiction
One of the most common issues that stop people from getting the help that they need is denial -in other words, the person not wanting to admit to themselves that they have a problem.
This could be to do with a personal sense of pride or shame, or not wanting to take the time out to do the work necessary for recovery.
If you’re worried about the substance abuse of someone you know, we can provide clear advice on how to stage an intervention for them. Sometimes it takes a step like this to get through to the person and make them see that they need help.
The importance of confidentiality
We recognise that addiction and drug use are sensitive subjects for most people, as unfortunately there is still some social stigma around the subject. This is why we value your confidentiality so highly.
All of our calls are handled confidentially and in compliance with all relevant data protection laws of the UK. We will not pass on your information to anyone without your permission.
We also know that you will probably want to have the phone conversation with us alone, so if now is not a good time to speak, we can arrange a callback at any time you like.
Going through detox at rehab
Detox is an essential part of your time at rehab, and will be a different experience depending on what drugs you have been using, to what extent, and for how long. Whatever your situation is, you will be monitored by a small unit of medical professionals, who can help you to get through any discomfort that you might experience as you go through withdrawal.
In the case of alcohol or opiate withdrawal, this could be towards the severe end of the spectrum. It is important that you are honest with the medical staff so that they can arrange the best possible care for you.
You should also never attempt to detox by yourself, or go ‘cold turkey’ – this is incredibly dangerous to do.
Your rehab therapy plan
Rehab has a number of top mental health professionals on-site, who will be able to help you to identify the root causes and triggers of your addiction and to address any other issues that you have been struggling with.
They will also help you to adjust and settle in your first days at the clinic, and teach you some highly valuable coping techniques to manage your cravings and emotions going forward.
They also have the authority to dispense medications where appropriate – for example, if you were to move on to a new SSRI as part of your treatment. These are issues that you can discuss at length with the mental health team once you arrive at the clinic.
Other treatments at rehab
Rehab treatment isn’t just about intense therapy and self-reflection. There are many activities in your schedule that are more holistic, such as yoga, tai chi, meditation, gardening, or other forms of gentle exercise.
Activities like this are really good for mindfulness and for your overall wellbeing. Through involvement in these activities, you may also find a new focus or even a new lifelong passion.
This is why it’s important to keep an open mind when it comes to your treatment plan.
Your rehab community
As you go through residential rehab, you will be encouraged to connect with the other service users around you, who will also be going through the recovery journey. While some will be at different stages of recovery than you, there is a common understanding that everyone is here to get better.
Group therapy sessions will be a regular part of your treatment, providing a great opportunity to learn from others while also being heard.
These sessions will often be chaired by one of the staff, to ensure that they are inclusive and constructive for everyone involved.
Planning for the future
Long-term recovery is an ongoing journey, and rehab is just the first stage of that. Your final days at rehab will involve putting together a relapse prevention strategy, in order to stand you in good stead once you leave.
A member of the mental health team will provide advice on some proactive steps that you can take to stay in recovery, as well as help you assess patterns of behaviour that have the potential to lead to relapse.
When putting this plan together, the knowledge of self that you have learned during your weeks at rehab will be a valuable asset.
Call OK Rehab for help
We have over 20 years of experience in arranging rehab treatment around the UK. If you would like to get into a clinic near you, we can make that journey as easy as possible.
Call us freephone on 0800 326 5559 to talk with one of our team members. No matter how hopeless things might seem right now, there is always the possibility of recovery.
If you accept your problem, commit to changing for the better, and trust the process, you have every chance of staying in recovery for the long term.
