Addiction rates are rising across the UK, and sadly Gloucestershire is included.

Easy access to drugs and alcohol has made this possible, as well as a social acceptance of binge drinking and the prevalent economic and employment uncertainty that many of us have been facing.

This high rate of use also comes with a greater risk of hospitalisation, putting even more strain on the NHS.

Being so popular, it is easy for casual substance use to slip over into addiction, quickly turning into dependence.

However, whilst addiction has grown worse across the county, rehabilitation practises have grown to match them.

Addiction Statistics In Gloucestershire

In the year 2019, substance abuse in Gloucestershire was at an all-time high, up by 39% compared to the previous year.

The number of deaths relating to cocaine use increased rapidly with over 50 deaths caused by drug poisoning.

This total was the highest recorded since 1993.

Statistics from the Office for National Statistics show that the South West of England has seen a 25% rise in drug deaths within recent years.

Many addiction experts blame this on government cuts and the closure of council-funded addiction facilities.

If you are ready to end your relationship with drugs and alcohol, consider a drug and alcohol rehab in Gloucestershire today by calling our team on 0800 111 4108.

The Disease Model Of Addiction

The disease model of addiction refers to the understanding that addiction is a chronic disease, not a moral failure.

It suggests that addiction happens through chemical changes in the brain and other contributing factors such as biological, genetic, environmental and neurological causes.

Things such as childhood trauma or a lack of a caregiver’s presence can lead children and adolescents to experiment with substances.

It also suggests that hereditary conditions can cause people to become addicted to substances, with genetic material making it seemingly impossible for some individuals to be able to quit.

The disease model for addiction suggests that individuals facing addiction will continue to do so until they can access the correct forms of care and treatment.

Without this, they will continue to abuse drugs and are stuck in a cycle of consumption.

Some addiction specialists criticise this model as it refers to individuals facing addiction as addicts.

This label can cause a stigma that is hard to move away from.

It also reinforces the idea that people struggling with substances are stuck and destined to use them for life.

What Is A Dual Diagnosis?

Dual diagnosis is a term used to describe substance misuse problems and co-occurring mental health problems .

There are many potential co-occurring mental disorders, including:

• Schizophrenia
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Codependency
• Bipolar disorder
• Psychosis
• Eating disorders
• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

A dual diagnosis is very common with around a third of people who access mental health services struggling with a history of substance abuse.

Researchers are still unclear of the link between the causes of mental health problems and substance use issues.

There are many reasons why people turn to drug use, but mental health disorders can exacerbate the effects felt.

Dual diagnosis treatment recognises the importance of treating substance use disorder and mental health disorder equally.

At Rehab 4 Alcoholism, we offer dual diagnosis support to help clients access the treatment they deserve.

We can help to:

• Provide information to families and individuals about the effects of drug use on mental health.
• Offer admission to local facilities specialising in treating your addiction and mental health disorder.
• Provide support at all times and refer you to local community groups.
• Ensure your clinic offers relapse prevention plans and prescription medication if it is required,

You will also need to consider any potential physical conditions that have occurred alongside or because of addiction, including liver failure, heart disease, alcoholic hepatitis or various cancers.

The Importance Of Abstinence In Rehab

Most rehab clinics in the UK, focus on abstinence-based approaches.

This is one of the many things that make people reluctant to seek professional help.

Stopping your consumption of drugs or alcohol, especially if you are typically a heavy user, can lead to unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.

Many people can’t even imagine their lives without drugs or alcohol.

This thought can make rehab seem overwhelming.

But things don’t have to be this way.

Abstinence-based approaches are the safest approaches to addiction treatment and can help to prevent relapses entirely.

Abstinence treatment is based on the disease model of addiction, which states that those with substance use disorders are always at risk of a relapse.

The safest way to avoid relapses is to stop consuming substances entirely.

The abstinence model also helps to remove any triggers and can end all cravings.

Paired with a detox programme and followed by therapy, total abstinence can make your life in recovery a lot easier.

Whilst harm-reduction methods may seem ideal, it can be more dangerous to your health to keep consuming substances even if in small doses.

For many clients, moderation approaches are never enough as the body demands more from building up a tolerance.

To avoid this from happening, the abstinence approach is used by most clinics in the Gloucestershire area.

The Advantages Of Residential Treatment In Gloucestershire

At Rehab 4 Alcoholism, we are a strong advocate of residential treatment.

Why? Because when you choose to undergo residential treatment, you are separated from your substance ‘using’ environment.

This ensures the risk of relapse isn’t a factor.

Fortunately, Gloucestershire does not have a shortage of residential treatment providers, and we shall assist you in selecting the best rehab for your needs.

When you enter a residential treatment provider, you will be assessed by a specialist, who may prescribe you detox medication.

A medically-assisted detox helps to ensure than  severe drug and alcohol withdrawal symptoms are kept to a minimum.

In the case of an alcohol detox, one of the most common treatments consists of a course of Chlordiazepoxide (a benzodiazepine that is better known as Librium), which has proven effective at minimising the worst effects of alcohol withdrawal syndrome, such as seizures.

The duration of your detox programme depends on the severity of your addiction, and also the substance you are addicted to.

If you are addicted to alcohol, your detox programme will require around 5-7 days to complete.

What Are The Differences Between Private Rehab And Free Rehab?

Residential rehab is an excellent choice for most people facing a substance use disorder.

Understandably, you may also be wondering about free options available to you.

In the UK, the NHS offers addiction treatment free of charge.

Whilst this seems like the most typical option to choose, it is important to understand why it is not always the best option.

NHS-funded treatment very rarely offers places at residential facilities, which makes this form of treatment inaccessible for those with severe substance use disorders who require around-the-clock care.

Usually, residential rehab admissions are only offered when a patient is unable to complete a home-detox programme or an outpatient programme.

Instead of risking failure, consider private treatment.

Many patients who attempt to complete NHS treatment find the lack of support for physical and emotional health extremely off-putting.

This isn’t to rule out NHS treatment entirely, as it can be extremely beneficial for those with mild substance use disorders.

It can also be helpful for those with prior commitments that make entering a residential facility tricky.

However, with private treatment, you can rest assured knowing that your needs are constantly met.

There are also very few disadvantages to this form of treatment.

The main issue associated with private treatment is cost.

Private residential programmes can appear very costly due to the level of care provided and the staff to patient ratio.

Whilst an alcohol addiction can be very expensive, private rehab is not cheap.

Fortunately, many clinics in Gloucestershire will work within your budget and many even draw up payment plans for clients to make treatment as accessible as possible.

Other organisations worth considering

Below is a list of other free organisations that offer advice and support for drug and alcohol addiction services in and around Gloucestershire:

1. The Nelson Trust Women’s Centre

Address: 1 Brunswick Square, Gloucester GL1 1UG

Telephone: 01452 397 690

Website: https://nelsontrust.com/how-we-help/womens-community-services/

2. Change Grow Live Gloucestershire

Address: 41-43, Imperial Chambers, Longsmith St, Gloucester GL1 2HT

Telephone: 01452 223 014

Website: https://www.changegrowlive.org/drug-alcohol-recovery-service-gloucestershire/gloucester

3. Turning Point Roads to Recovery – Tewkesbury

Who Is Drug And Alcohol Rehab In Gloucestershire Suitable For?

Unfortunately, residential rehab isn’t for everyone.

Some people may have work-related or family issues that make it difficult to attend, whilst others may simply find the cost far too steep.

You may have been considering rehab for a while but are unsure if it will be of benefit you.

Many people with substance use disorders are often the last to see the severity of their issue, downplaying their problem until it’s too late.

Take a look at the list below, do you identify with any of these conditions?

• You have been diagnosed with Wernicke’s encephalopathy or delirium tremens.
• You face suicidal thoughts daily.
• You drink more than 30 units of alcohol in one day and face co-occurring mental health problems.
• You become violent or enraged when intoxicated, committing acts against family members and loved ones.
• You identify as a high-risk patient according to the criteria of the DSM-5.

If you do, considering private rehab will be in your best interest.

Here you can receive bespoke care helping you to overcome your issues with drugs or alcohol.

What Are The Criteria For The DSM-5?

The DSM-5 (The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) was created by psychiatrists in the United States.

It is now used in the UK to diagnose mental disorders, including substance use disorder.

It lists 10 substance categories such as:

• Opioids
• Alcohol
• Hallucinogens
• Caffeine
• Hypnotics
• Sedatives
• Stimulants
• Anxiolytics
• Inhalants

There are 11 criteria with which a patient must identify.

The criteria are as follows:

1. Taking the substance in larger amounts or for longer than you’re meant to.
2. Wanting to cut down or stop using the substance but not managing to.
3. Spending a lot of time getting, using, or recovering from use of the substance.
4. Cravings and urges to use the substance.
5. Neglecting responsibilities at work, home or school because of substance use.
6. Continuing to use, even when it causes problems in relationships.
7. Giving up important social, occupational or recreational activities because of substance use.
8. Using substances again and again, even when it puts you in danger.
9. Continuing to use, even when you know you have a physical or psychological problem that could have been caused or made worse by the substance.
10. Needing more of the substance to get the effect you want due to high tolerance.
11. Development of withdrawal symptoms, which can be relieved by taking more of the substance.

As well as a strict set of criteria, the DSM-5 also diagnoses patients through 3 levels of severity.

This means that the more severe the substance use disorder, the higher level of treatment will be required.

If a patient identifies with 2-3 of the above criteria it is said that they display signs of a mild substance use disorder.

For those who identify with 4-5 a moderate SUD is said to exist, whilst those who identify with 6 or more are typically diagnosed with a severe substance use disorder, otherwise known as an addiction.

What Are The Alternatives To Attending Rehab In Gloucestershire?

As previously mentioned, rehab isn’t for everyone.

For those who are wanting to recover but cannot attend residential treatment, why not consider the following?

SMART Recovery

SMART Recovery is a self-help service that supports clients in identifying their problems and providing help in recovery. Similar to AA, meetings usually take place weekly with staff on hand to provide motivation and support.

Al-Anon Meetings

These are held to support families affected by individuals who abuse alcohol. They help to provide families with a safe space to unload worries and concerns.

Outpatient treatment

Outpatient treatment is a more flexible approach to residential rehab and can help those with important commitments enter recovery.

It involves you living at home during treatment and visiting your chosen facility for daily sessions.

Home detox

For those who may not be able to afford a detox programme at a residential facility, a home detox can prove just as beneficial.

It is a more cost-effective option, though it poses major risks if you find it hard to overcome triggers and negative associations.

The Admissions Process In Gloucestershire

Patients are diagnosed with substance use disorders according to a variety of criteria such as the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition) as explained above, the ASAM (American Society of Addiction Medicine) criteria and the AUDIT (Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test).

The ASAM criteria are a set of 6 dimensions followed by practitioners.

They help to place, transfer, and discharge patients with substance use disorders.

The 6 dimensions are as follows:

Dimension 1: Acute Intoxication and Withdrawal Potential

The first dimension explores the client’s past and their experiences with substance use. It also includes experiences with withdrawal.

Dimension 2: Biomedical Conditions and Complications

The second dimension explores the client’s health history as well as their current mental and physical condition.

Dimension 3: Emotional, Behavioural, or Cognitive Conditions and Complications

The third dimension explores the client’s thoughts, mental health and the emotions they are feeling.

Dimension 4: Readiness to Change

This fourth dimension determines the client’s readiness and interest in changing behaviours.

Dimension 5: Relapse, Continued Use, or Continued Problem Potential

The fifth dimension explores the client’s relationship with relapsing and continued use of substances.

Dimension 6: Recovery/Living Environment

The sixth, and final, dimension explores the client’s recovery and living situation. It also includes exploration of things such as social groups, friends, and support networks.

The ASAM criteria considers both biological and holistic treatment options to place patients within the most effective treatment programmes.

Once you have been diagnosed, you will be able to secure admission to a facility of your choice.

A diagnosis can help you to begin a treatment programme tailored to your specific needs.

Many different psychiatric assessments are used at rehab, with another popular choice being the CAGE Questionnaire.

Together, the information these assessments glean allow rehab workers and an attendant psychiatrist to develop a comprehensive treatment plan filled with physical and psychiatric treatments, all handpicked for your needs and preferences to deliver a bespoke, person-centred care plan.

How Are Alcohol Use Disorders Identified?

Alcohol use disorders are diagnosed through the AUDIT (Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test).

The AUDIT is a 10-question test that helps to effectively diagnose alcohol addiction.

The test is scored out of a total of 40.

Each question is scored from 0-4.

The higher the total score, the more intense treatment will be required.

The questions for the AUDIT include:

1. How often do you have a drink containing alcohol?
2. How many units of alcohol do you drink on a typical day when you are drinking?
3. How often have you had 6 or more units if female, or 8 or more if male, on a single occasion in the last year?
4. How often during the last year have you found that you were not able to stop drinking once you had started?
5. How often during the last year have you failed to do what was normally expected from you because of your drinking?
6. How often during the last year have you needed an alcoholic drink in the morning to get yourself going after a heavy drinking session?
7. How often during the last year have you had a feeling of guilt or remorse after drinking?
8. How often during the last year have you been unable to remember what happened the night before because you had been drinking?
9. Have you or somebody else been injured as a result of your drinking?
10. Has a relative, friend, doctor or other health worker been concerned about your drinking or suggested that you cut down?

A score of 0 out of 40 indicates no alcohol dependence at all.

8 out of 40 shows a cause for concern, whilst 13 out of 40 or higher indicates that professional help is required.

Residential rehabilitation can help you to overcome all dependencies on alcohol and help you to work through the emotional causes of your addiction.

When Is A Professional Intervention Needed?

An intervention is usually required when a person’s life is worsening due to their substance use, but they refuse to enter treatment.

A professional interventionist can be hired by families to help them facilitate a conversation around addiction.

Before the intervention takes place, many interventionists help families learn better approaches to help their loved one feel accepted.

One of the most popular approaches used by families is the Community Reinforcement and Family Training approach (CRAFT).

This method helps families navigate difficult relationships with their loved one through positive reinforcement.

If an individual chooses to abstain from consuming substances, their behaviour is rewarded by their family.

This encourages a pattern of abstinence and negative behaviour decreases.

The CRAFT method takes into consideration the mental health and wellbeing of families offers them support during difficult times.

Many families fear hiring an interventionist due to concerns it will push their loved one away and further into denial.

This is because many people have misconceptions about interventions and think of them as an ineffective tool.

In recent years, professional interventions have proved very beneficial for individuals who are unable to see the severity of their substance use.

For more information on staging an intervention, contact our team today at 0800 111 4108 or speak to a helpline adviser through the live chat function on our website.

How Much Does Drug And Alcohol Rehab In Gloucestershire Cost?

The price of rehab varies depending on the kind of treatment you choose and the location of the facility you choose.

If you are looking for an independent detox programme, prices begin at around £6,000.

If you would prefer to complete a complete rehabilitation programme that lasts 28-30 days, within a single occupancy room, prices begin at £8,000 and can increase to around £12,000.

If you would prefer to share a room, prices begin at around £2,000 and can increase to around £4,000.

A significantly cheaper option is to complete a home detox programme.

Home detox programmes cost around £1,500, though prices will be confirmed when you speak to a member of our team.

How Do I Choose The Right Rehab Programme?

When choosing the right rehab programme, it is important to remember to take into consideration the following:

• The length the treatment facility has been operating
• The experiences of past staff and clients
• If the clinic will cater to your budget or offer payment plans
• If you can visit the clinic in person
• If all staff are experienced and trained to a very high standard

Sourcing a rehab clinic can be a very stressful experience.

Luckily, at Rehab 4 Alcoholism, we support you during this time and can help you to source a clinic best suited to your needs.

What Is A Detox Programme?

A detox programme is required to be completed by most clients before they can begin further treatment such as therapy.

For an alcohol detox, Librium is prescribed to help clients overcome withdrawals.

Librium is used for around 10 days before patients can begin tailored therapy sessions.

Most clients tend to continue therapy for around 3 weeks before returning home completely free from physical dependence.

Choosing to partake in a detox within a medical facility is the best option for your physical and mental health.

This is because staff are on hand 24 hours a day and can assist you whenever you need help.

A medical detox is always advised over a self-detox, otherwise known as going ‘cold turkey’.

Self-detoxes are not to be confused with home-detoxes and can be very dangerous to the body.

This type of detox sees patients completely stopping their consumption with no medical guidance or prescription medication to ease the withdrawals.

People who attempt this type of detox often find their efforts to be futile, so assistance from a certified rehabilitation facility is always advised.

How Long Does Rehab In Gloucestershire Last?

The length of your rehab programme depends on a variety of factors such as:

• The substance you are addicted to
• The severity of your addiction
• The type of programme you choose
• The facility you choose
• The types of therapy you require

If the substance you are addicted to doesn’t require a detox -such as cannabis or cocaine– the length of your programme could be shorter than someone who is in rehab to overcome a heroin addiction.

Again, these things depend on your individual circumstances, so it is recommended you call our helpline for a more accurate estimation.

Most people enter rehab for around 28-30 days.

This is deemed the necessary time for old habits to wane and healthy coping mechanisms to form.

Some clients choose to stay in rehab for around 3 months so that they can complete daily therapy sessions to prepare them for the next chapter of their life.

Those who have severe substance use disorders can choose to stay in rehab for even longer if staff deem it appropriate.

Rehab can also last around 7-10 days if you are wishing to complete a single detox session.

Rehab For Cocaine In Gloucestershire

Cocaine is a Class A drug within the UK.

This means it is illegal to possess, consume, and sell.

It is a stimulant drug that makes users feel confident and euphoric.

It increases the body temperature and heart rate of the user, which can lead to an overdose or heart attack.

This risk is further increased if the user mixes cocaine with other drugs including alcohol.

Regular cocaine use can cause the user to feel depressed and anxious.

It can also bring past mental health problems to the surface and cause new problems to form.

Frequently consuming this substance can cause major financial issues as it is an expensive habit.

Cocaine is very rarely sold as a pure substance and can be mixed with anything from sugar and salt to benzocaine and fentanyl.

Mixing cocaine with other drugs can be fatal.

If you are looking for help with your cocaine addiction, contact Rehab 4 Alcoholism today.

Rehab For Heroin In Gloucestershire

Long-term heroin use can cause irreversible damage to the body and brain.

Taking the drug regularly can cause a high tolerance to build up.

This means that users are placing themselves in danger every time they take the drug.

Heroin brings with it many risks such as permanent damage to the veins if injecting, and an increased chance of contracting viruses such as hepatitis and HIV if sharing needles.

It is also extremely dangerous to mix heroin with other drugs.

If you are looking for heroin rehab in Gloucestershire, our team can help.

Most programmes can provide prescription medication to limit withdrawal symptoms, alongside a combination of therapies to avoid relapse.

Rehab For Cannabis In Gloucestershire

If you smoke a lot of cannabis, it can cause significant effects on your mental health.

Mixing cannabis with tobacco when smoking can also increase your chances of developing a nicotine addiction.

People who regularly and heavily use cannabis often find it incredibly hard to stop consuming the drug.

When people who heavily consume cannabis halt their consumption, they can feel a whole range of effects from nausea to diarrhoea.

Cannabis rehab can help you overcome your psychological dependence and all associations with substances, allowing you to begin a new chapter in life free from drugs.

What Therapies Are Offered In Rehab?

Therapy is vital in rehab and helps clients deal with the psychological aspects of addiction.

Examining the thought processes and behaviours that lead to addictive behaviour can help you to begin to live a life without substances.

Some of the physical and talking therapies offered to clients include:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)
• Group therapy and Group Psychotherapy
• Individual Therapy
• Family Therapy
• Twelve-Step Facilitation Therapy
• Holistic Therapy such as yoga, mindfulness, Art Therapy, Music Therapy, Drama Therapy, Acupuncture, Equine Therapy, etc.
• Contingency Management
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
• Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy
• Brief Interventions
• Motivational Interviewing and other motivational therapies

The types of therapy offered to you will depend on the severity of your addiction and how suitable staff believe them to be to your needs.

Preventing Relapses In Rehab

At Rehab 4 Alcoholism, we understand the importance of care plans for all clients.

This means that we only work with clinics that help provide relapse prevention plans.

Achieving and maintaining recovery requires daily effort and motivation both during treatment and after it is complete, which is why aftercare is so vital.

To prepare you for life outside of treatment, support workers and therapists will help you:

• Remain honest and open about your feelings towards substances
• Overcome negative moods that could potentially lead to a relapse
• Avoid situations that could place your recovery in danger
• Attend community group meetings such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous
• Identify your triggers and how to overcome them

Many therapists also encourage clients to learn about the HALT approach.

HALT stands for:

• Hungry
• Angry
• Lonely
• Tired

HALT helps clients to identify their needs before a relapse occurs.

It can help those in recovery to see when they are at their most vulnerable and are at risk of relapsing.

With a prevention plan and support network in place, those in rehab will have the best chances for long-term sobriety.

Contact Us Today

For more information on how Rehab 4 Alcoholism is able to help you in your journey to defeating your addiction, contact us today on 0800 111 4108.

When you contact us, we shall conduct a vital assessment so we are able to correctly advise you on the most suitable treatment providers. All of the rehabs we recommend must be regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC England and Wales) or the Care Inspectorate (Scotland).

Rehab 4 Alcoholism also offers rehab services available across Cirencester, Stroud, Chipping Campden, Cheltenham, Wotton-under-Edge, Bourton-on-the-Water, Tewkesbury, Winchcombe, Lechlade-on-Thames, Moreton-in-Marsh, Ampney Crucis, Blockley, Chalford, Northleach, Bledington, Cinderford, Bisley, Dursley, Broad Campden, Bishops Cleeve, Coleford, Ashleworth, Arlingham, Chedworth, Birdlip, Mitcheldean, Alderton, Bourton-on-the-Hill, Kemble, Batsford, Newent, Adlestrop, Alderley, Lydney, Stonehouse, Bagendon, Andoversford, Broadwell, Frampton on Severn, Alkington, Icomb, Didbrook, Minchinhampton, and more towns in and around Gloucestershire.