Northern Ireland

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Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is located in a beautiful corner of Europe. It attracts plenty of people from across the world who decide to make it their home.

Like anywhere else though, this Northern Ireland does have its problems.

There will be local people who are dealing with issues such as addiction, and these problems must be solved with professional addiction treatment.

Those people who find that they are dealing with an addiction problem in Northern Ireland will need to get help as soon as possible. The longer they delay getting this help the more they will end up suffering.

Addictions that you can get help for at alcohol or drug rehab include alcohol addiction, binge drinking, benzodiazepine addiction, cannabis use disorder, cocaine dependence, opioid use disorder, behavioural addictions and gambling addiction. Buprenorphine addiction, crack cocaine addiction, ketamine addiction and any substance use disorder or physical dependence.

Start your recovery journey today by calling our expert team on 0800 088 66 86

Addiction Statistics In Northern Ireland

For those who struggle with an addiction, it can sometimes be difficult to gain perspective at times. When someone’s really suffering from an addiction, they tend to lose perspective.

For example, they might start to believe that they are the only ones who possibly know what they are going through right now and that other person would struggle to understand.

However, this is not the case. That is why it is important to understand the statistics that surround addiction In Northern Ireland.

By understanding just how many people struggle with addictions across the world, people are able to understand that help is available.

Addiction is becoming increasingly common across the world. In fact, the UNODC estimates that between 155 and 250 million people use addictive and illicit substances every year. This is a staggering 3.5% – 5.7% of the population aged between 15-64.

These substances include but are not limited to types of alcohol and drugs such as cocaine, heroin, opioids and cannabis. It is cannabis that is most common, with approximately 129 – 190 million users across the world.

You can read more about the disease of addiction here.

In terms of countries, the United Kingdom, Italy and Spain all rank highly in terms of numbers of drug use, whereas countries such as Greece and Hungary rank low.

According to other data, drug and alcohol use is responsible for a total of 11.8 million deaths across the world every year. More than 50% of these deaths are under the age of 50 years old, and more than half are men.

The symptoms of addiction are common and well known, but many people don’t know that a total of 1.5% of all global diseases are a result of addiction. In some countries across the world, this percentage increases up to approximately 5%.

According to Public Health England and the Office for National Statistics over 50% of all UK adults have received treatment for some form of opiate drug in their lifetime. This really is a shocking statistic.

Additionally, the ONS believe that 20% of all adults in the UK have struggled with a drug issue, and 28% have struggled with an addiction to alcohol.

Unfortunately, these statistics are usually higher in men than women.

These statistics are increasing year on year and show no signs of slowing down. Unfortunately, with Covid-19 creating a mental health pandemic of its own, people are turning to drugs or alcohol more than ever as a way to escape reality.

If you’re suffering from an addiction to either drugs or alcohol in Northern Ireland, then it’s important to understand these statistics and understand that addiction is a worldwide issue.

Thankfully, there are many now tried and tested techniques used to help individuals overcome their addiction.

If you’re worried that you are addicted to either drugs or alcohol, then remember that there is help out there and available to you.

You can speak to your local GP, or a member of our team at Rehab Recovery. We will be able to provide you with the help and support needed to enter an alcohol and drug rehab in Northern Ireland and get the help you need.

The Disease Model of Addiction

If you suffer from a drug or alcohol addiction, then you should research the idea that addiction is not a moral failing or an individual’s fault, but it is an addiction and therefore a disease of the brain.

Unfortunately, due to the media, film and TV, there is a lot of stigma surrounding addiction that might sometimes make people blame themselves or their mistakes for their addiction.

However, it is important to understand that addiction is a disease, and therefore people cannot be blamed for it. A disease is defined as a disorder concerning an organ or other part of the body.

For those suffering from an addiction, this includes the brain. This is because over time addiction to drugs or alcohol will change the brain’s structure, pathways and chemicals.

As this happens, individuals can slowly become addicted, and their tolerance will begin to increase, making it extremely difficult to stop consuming the addictive substance.

According to the DHHR addictions consist of the 4 C’s. This includes cravings, compulsions, a loss of control and continued use.

This is the process that individuals go through that makes them dependent on a substance.

Those suffering from an addiction should always look at addiction as a disease, instead of a moral failing so that individuals do not see their addiction as their fault or mistake.

By looking at addiction this way, individuals are also able to understand how medical attention will help them get through their addiction.

So, if you think you are suffering from an addiction or know someone who is blaming themselves for their addiction, then get in touch with someone at Rehab Recovery.

The goal of rehab is to treat the disease of addiction. Addiction is not considered a ‘choice’ or ‘moral failing’, by an affliction suffered by individuals.

Start your recovery journey in Northern Ireland today by calling our expert team on 0800 088 66 86

Dual Diagnosis at Rehab in Northern Ireland

If you have a mental health condition alongside an addiction, then the medical and professional term for this is a ‘dual diagnosis.’

Lots of people who suffer from a dual diagnosis also tend to suffer from conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, paranoia and schizophrenia.

If an individual suffers from addiction alongside a mental health issue, then it can make suffering from addiction even more challenging and complex.

It can be extremely hard for anyone with a mental health condition to maintain a healthy mindset, their finances, their work and other aspects of daily life.

The term dual diagnosis is used to describe people who have been diagnosed (according to the DSM-5) with a SUD and another mental health condition.

You will have a psychiatric assessment by a psychiatrist to determine whether you need psychiatric treatment.

This can be for:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar Disorder
• Borderline personality disorder
• Eating disorders
• Obsessive compulsive disorder
• Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

For lots of sufferers, it is often difficult to remember or determine if their mental health problem came before or after their addiction. Often, the two are intertwined and influence each other.

By attending drug and alcohol rehab in Northern Ireland, individuals are able to get help for both their addiction and mental health issues alongside one.

They will receive a medical detox for their addiction, and then therapy and addiction counselling for their mental health condition.

Forms of therapy include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, acupuncture, art therapy, codependency treatment, contingency management, cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, drama therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, group psychotherapy, mindfulness, motivational therapy, motivational interviewing, music therapy, equine therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, brief intervention and talking therapies.

Therapy techniques such as CBT, DBT and Motivational Interviewing will be used throughout when treating a dual diagnosis.

If you believe you are suffering from a dual diagnosis in Northern Ireland, then speak to a member of our team at Rehab Recovery today and ask for help and advice on how to treat your mental health condition alongside your addiction.

You can get free mental health support from organisations like Mind UK, Young Minds, Rethink Mental Illness, Samaritans and Papyrus.

Abstinence VS Managing Your Addiction

Unfortunately, for those suffering from an addiction, the word abstinence can seem unattainable.

It often does matter if an individual has a severe or less severe addiction, it’s important to understand that complete abstinence is achievable for everyone who commits to it.

However, those suffering from an addiction they might try to aim for moderation management.

Moderation management is when individual aims to simply reduce their consumption of the addictive substance, rather than cutting it out completely.

For example, those aiming to simply manage their addiction will just consume less amount of the substance or less frequently.

Nevertheless, studies have shown that this is not a productive or sustainable way to live or recover.

In order to properly, fully recover, many healthcare professionals believe and preach that you need to achieve complete abstinence.

In order to achieve complete abstinence, those suffering from an addiction will need to think about receiving treatment at a professional rehab centre so that they can safely undergo drug or alcohol detox and receive therapy.

Upon admission to rehab in Northern Ireland, you will initially receive a detox which will rid your body of the addictive substance and will then receive therapy for the psychological side of your addiction.

This will all go towards achieving abstinence instead of simply reducing your intake and consumption.

For many people suffering from an addiction, their bodies and mind are already being put at risk. That’s why simply controlling and reducing the amount you consume simply isn’t viable or safe.

For example, you are much more at risk of experiencing a relapse if you aim to simply moderate and reduce your consumption, as opposed to staying in complete abstinence.

During your stay at rehab, time will be spent working with you to complete a course of treatment, as well as formulating a relapse prevention plan for you to take home with you.

This will ensure that you are provided with the right care and support for when you go home from rehab so that you don’t relapse.

Time will also be spent trying to identify any potential triggers that might exist in your day-to-day life, as these can easily knock individuals into bad habits.

By aiming for complete abstinence, you are statistically less at risk of listening to any cravings or potential triggers once you leave rehab in Northern Ireland.

Experts have agreed that abstinence is always the safer and more effective route to addiction recovery.

Start your recovery journey in Northern Ireland today by calling our expert team on 0800 088 66 86

The Pros of Attending a Residential Rehab Centre in Northern Ireland

For those struggling with a drug and alcohol addiction in Northern Ireland, there are lots of different rehab centres and treatment options available.

By admitting yourself into a residential rehab centre, you will experience a whole host of benefits.

Before you even enter residential rehab, you will be given the opportunity to sit down with doctors, therapists and councillors to discuss your addiction in more detail.

For many people, this is the very first time they have been able to sit down with a professional for help and can be very insightful.

Upon admission to rehab in Northern Ireland, you will then also be asked to complete an alcohol or drug detox. Although this is often the most challenging part of the process, it is by far the most effective.

By attending residential rehab in Northern Ireland, you stay in the rehab facility for a specified length of time and will be cared for and looked after by doctors and professionals continuously, particularly when it comes to your detox.

Whilst undergoing your medical detox, it is important to understand that you will also gain access to prescription drugs.

This medication could include a prescription drug like Librium which is often used to help individuals when it comes to their detox and any anxiety that they might be experiencing.

Once you have achieved and completed the hardest part of your treatment (the detox) you will then be allowed time to focus on the psychological side of your addiction.

This will involve attending therapy sessions with professionals with experience in treating those with mental health conditions.

At a residential rehab centre, you will be given access to a wide and diverse range of treatment options, techniques and therapy styles. These forms of therapy will differ depending on what type of treatment centre you attend.

By attending residential rehab in Northern Ireland, you will also be given the chance to exchange tips and advice with other individuals who are suffering. Through group therapy, you will be given the chance to learn from one another whilst helping each other recover.

In addition to these benefits, you will also be removed from your day-to-day life. Although many people might find this daunting at first, it is actually a great opportunity.

You will be given space from your triggers and relationships that might sometimes contribute to your addiction.

Whilst at drug and alcohol rehab in Northern Ireland, you will also be advised and motivated to complete your own relapse prevention plan that will hopefully ensure that you stay on track and sober.

Alcohol addiction needs a medically-assisted detox using Chlordiazepoxide (brand name Librium) in order to ease alcohol withdrawal symptoms or alcohol withdrawal syndrome.

Without rehab, alcohol addiction can result in delirium tremens, seizures or Wernicke encephalopathy.

Private Rehab vs Council Funded Rehab in Northern Ireland

Across Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK, there are two main ways of attending rehab.

Those who can afford it will attend private rehab. For others, their only choice might be to attend council-funded rehab.

Despite common belief, there is no such thing as completely council-funded rehab centres in Northern Ireland. Instead, the council will designate their own beds and slots in private rehab centres for those whose only option is to attend council-funded rehab.

Arguably, there is a big difference between private and council-funded rehab. That is why it is important to understand the pros and cons when it comes to private VS council-funded rehab treatment.

Pros of Attending Private Rehab in Northern Ireland

• By opting for private rehab, you will not have to wait for your treatment. You will often be seen or at least spoken to the same day.
• You will also get the chance to speak to therapists and psychologists and medical doctors who will create a personalised rehab treatment plan that is specific to you and your needs
• A lot of your rehab will be spent creating a relapse prevention plan which will help ensure that you stay sober, even after you leave rehab
• You will receive help with a medical detox
• You will also receive around-the-clock care to ensure that you are safe and well during your stay

Cons to Attending Private Rehab in Northern Ireland

• Private rehab can cost a lot of money.
• As there are so many options, and you have the pick of the bunch, you might become overwhelmed and confused at all the choices

Pros of Attending Council-Funded Rehab in Northern Ireland

• It won’t cost you
• It is just as confidential as a private rehab

Cons to Council Funded Rehab in Northern Ireland

• There will be a long waiting list. This means that you could be waiting up to months before getting the help and treatment you need, at which time your addiction might become more severe
• You might not qualify for it as there are lots of boxes you need to tick
• If you struggle with a dual diagnosis, then you might need to wait to receive treatment for your mental health issue
• You might receive less one to one time with a psychologist

If you’re considering rehab, then it is worth carefully considering the above benefits and negatives of attending both private and council-funded rehab.

Several free and NHS-run recovery services operate across Northern Ireand, including:

1. Belfast Health and Social Care Trust

Address: Non-Clinical Support Building, Royal Victoria Hospital, 274 Grosvenor Road, Belfast, BT12 6BA

Telephone: 028 9032 9241

Website: https://belfasttrust.hscni.net/service/addiction-services/

2. CAMHS East Antrim

Address: Antrim Area Hospital, Bush Road, Antrim, BT41 2QB

Telephone: 028 9442 4600

Website: https://www.northerntrust.hscni.net/services/child-adolescent-mental-health-service-camhs

3. ASCERT

Address: Callan HouseWestcourt Centre, 8-30 Barrack Street, Belfast, BT12 4AH

Telephone: 0800 254 5123

Website: https://www.ascert.biz/

4. Inspire Northern Ireland

Address: 40 Elmwood Ave, Belfast, BT9 6AZ

Telephone: 028 9032 8474

Website: https://www.inspirewellbeing.org/our-services/mental-health-and-addiction/

Rehabs and organisations are led by guidelines set by the American Society of Addiction Medicine, National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, the National Association for Children of Alcoholics and the NHS Foundation Trust so you are in safe hands with person-centered care.

You will be given plenty of coping mechanisms to maintain your sobriety, as well as the possibility of sober living houses.

The NHS, Turning Point, Change Grow Live and We Are With You provide free and reliable information about drug and alcohol addictions and dependencies.

Attending nearby 12-Step programmes like Cocaine Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous (NA)  and Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) can be a great way to connect with other people in recovery and maintain your sobriety by giving yourself over to a higher power.

Start your recovery journey in Northern Ireland today by calling our expert team on 0800 088 66 86

Residential Rehab IS NOT for Everyone

Unfortunately, residential rehab in Northern Ireland is not suited to everyone.

The reality of attending residential rehab is that it is an awfully big commitment and task. Therefore, only those who absolutely need to attend residential rehab will be admitted.

In order to do so, they will need to tick certain boxes and criteria.

If individuals do not qualify for residential rehab, then they might be suitable for either non-residential rehab or a home detox.

Upon admission to rehab in Northern Ireland, individuals will be assessed according to certain diagnostic criteria. These questions will always be confidential and will be asked by healthcare professionals who know what to look out for.

This criterion includes but is not limited to:

• If you drink 25 or more units a day
• If you have a co-occurring mental health issue or a dual diagnosis
• If you suffer from suicidal thoughts or have ever considered self-harm
• If you have ever been violent whilst intoxicated
• If you think you would struggle to do a home detox
• If you have attempted but failed to recover in the past
• If you have ever suffered from ataxia or confusion (Wernicke’s Encephalopathy)
• If you have ever suffered from delirium tremens or seizures

If you tick enough of the above boxes and criteria, then you might be deemed a ‘high risk’ client. This means that it might be necessary for you to attend residential rehab, as other forms of treatment might not work successfully.

In addition to the above criteria, professionals will also use the DSM-IV-TR diagnostic criteria in order to determine whether or not someone needs to attend residential rehab, or if other forms of addiction treatment services in Northern Ireland might work for them.

These diagnostic criteria include the below:

• Still using the drug even though you are aware of the harm it is doing to you and your body
• You are willing to lie, steal and cheat in order to continue using the drug
• You have tried but failed to recover in the past
• You have an increased tolerance
• You stop seeing friends and family
• You quit any hobbies
• You start to consume in order to avoid any unpleasant drug or alcohol withdrawal symptoms

Alternatives to Going to Rehab in Northern Ireland

If you are not admitted into residential rehab, then there are many other alternatives. Below is a list of some very common alternatives to attending residential rehab.

Al-Anon Family Group Meetings

If residential rehab is too much of a commitment for you, and if your family would benefit from attending therapy sessions, then you could attend Al-Anon group meetings.

Family group meetings are a fantastic way of getting help alongside your family and are great for anyone who might struggle with any triggers or negative influences at home.

This will ensure that your family and friends at home are onboard when it comes to your recovery.

Al-Anon hosts family meetings across Northern Ireland.

SMART Meetings

If family group meetings are not for you, and you don’t qualify for residential Rehab, then individuals can also try SMART meetings.

SMART meetings are a form of a self-help group, which are based throughout the UK and Northern Ireland. They are essentially a series of 90-minute sessions with a healthcare professional in a group environment.

By attending SMART meetings, you will be surrounding yourself with others who are going through the same thing, whilst gaining helpful tips and advice from their stories.

They are highly motivational and allow people the opportunity to gain a support group to help them overcome their addictions and triggers.

SMART meetings are held both online and in many locations across Northern Ireland.

12-Step Recovery Programs

Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous and Cocaine Anonymous are very popular and long-standing self-help groups that are based throughout the UK in most towns and cities.

You will sit in a group meeting, with a number of people who are all going through the same thing as you. The AA consists of 12 steps, which aim to help people stay sober.

You will also be given the opportunity to share stories and experiences with one another in an attempt to learn from the lessons and gain advice and support.

AA and NA groups exist in abundance across Northern Ireland.

Home Detox

For those who only suffer from a mild addiction, home detox is a great option. It is mainly used by people who either don’t like the idea of attending residential rehab or for those who do not qualify.

With a home detox, you will receive therapy treatment in the form of daily phone calls with a professional with experience in dealing with individuals with an addiction.

You will also receive your medication through the post, which can be posted directly to your address.

Home detox is a great way for people to receive a level of help and support similar to rehab, without having to go into a rehab centre every day.

However, it is by no means as effective as actually attending rehab, whether it’s residential or not. A home detox should only be used when the individual is capable of motivating themselves.

Thanks to its remote nature, anyone in Northern Ireland who is suited to undergoing home detox is likely to receive it.

Outpatient Treatment Via a Local Drug & Alcohol Team in Halifax

For some people, a home detox simply would not provide them with enough support and guidance to recover. If this is the case, then outpatient treatment might be more suitable for you.

Outpatient treatment involves daily trips to the rehab centre where you will receive your treatment, before then leaving and returning back home every day to resume your daily life and responsibilities.

Outpatient treatment is a fantastic option for those who have commitments such as a job, children or another day to day responsibilities.

It is ideal for anyone in Northern Ireland with a mild to moderate addiction who are still able to maintain their daily life but need support and help to overcome their addiction.

Start your recovery journey in Northern Ireland today by calling our expert team on 0800 088 66 86

How does the Admissions Process work in Northern Ireland?

If you are hoping to enter addiction treatment services in Northern Ireland, then it is very important that you fully understand the admissions process before you enter.

It’s important to understand that when an individual first approaches their doctors or local rehab centre, they will be assessed in order to determine what type of treatment they are most suitable for.

In clinical psychology throughout Northern Ireland and across the world, the ASAM criteria and dimensions are used in order to determine how severe someone’s addiction is. The ASAM diagnostic criteria include six dimensions.

Dimension 1 – Detox Potential

Dimension one of the ASAM criteria is about your ability to detox and overcome your withdrawal symptoms. Professionals will try to determine whether or not you have relapsed or thought about relapsing previously. They will also want to know if you have ever attempted to complete a detox programme in the past but failed.

Dimension 2 – General Health & Wellbeing

Dimension two includes your general health and wellbeing. They will ask you questions about your physical and mental health. This might even involve some health tests by a doctor.

Dimension 3 – Psychological & Mental Wellbeing

Your mental well-being will also be assessed by therapists and psychotherapists who will ask you questions surrounding your mental well-being.

Dimension 4 – Your sense of Commitment to Your Recovery

Dimension four delves into how committed an individual is to recover. More often than not, an individual’s commitment to their own recovery is one of the biggest determining factors in their recovery.

Dimension 5 – Your Potential to Relapse in the Future

The fifth dimension includes questions about your relapse history. They will ask you a series of questions about your mental well-being as well as whether or not you’ve relapsed in the past in order to determine how likely it is that you will relapse in the future.

Dimension 6 – Environment at Home & Potential External Triggers

Lastly, you will be asked about what your environment is like so that they can understand what kind of triggers or unhelpful behaviours might exist at the individual’s home.

Once you have been assessed on these six dimensions, you will be scored.

If an individual qualifies for 2 or 3 of the above dimensions, then your addiction will be determined mild. However, if individuals qualify for 4 or 5 of the above dimensions, then their addiction is more severe and would be said to be ‘mild.’

However, if you qualify for 6 then your addiction is severe and you will likely be admitted to rehab soon.

Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDITs)

In terms of the admissions process for alcohol addiction, the AUDIT (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test) will be used to screen individuals before they enter a rehab centre.

The test was developed by the WHO and has a total of 10 questions about your addiction, dependency and consumption:

• How often would you say that you drink alcohol on a weekly basis?
• How many drinks or units do you tend to consume on a daily basis?
• How many times would you say that you drink 6 or more units in a day?
• How many times over the past 12 months would you say that you have struggled to stop drinking?
• How often would you say that you have dropped or failed a responsibility over the past 12 months?
• How many times over the last 12 months have you had to have a drink after consuming a lot of alcohol the night previously?
• How many times over the last year have you felt guilty or remorseful after your drinking?
• How often in the last year have you not been able to remember what happened the previous night due to your consumption of alcohol?
• Have you ever acted out physically or violently whilst intoxicated on drugs or alcohol?
• Has a family member, friend or doctor ever told you that they are worried about your alcohol consumption?

Individuals can answer these questions which are then scored. These scores are then added up and if someone scores more than 8 then their addiction is said to be severe.

Start your recovery journey in Northern Ireland today by calling our expert team on 0800 088 66 86

When is a Professional Intervention Needed in Northern Ireland?

A professional intervention is needed when friends, family or loved ones feel like their loved one’s addiction is getting out of control and they are not listening.

It is essentially a great way for loved ones to express their concern in a calm and caring way. Loved ones will formulate a plan to meet up with the sufferer and openly talk to them about their concern surrounding their addiction.

It’s important to plan this meeting in a confidential way, and make sure that you choose somewhere that’s quiet and calm where you won’t be interrupted.

Whilst discussing your concern, you will also be able to discuss some treatment options in Northern Ireland. That’s why it’s important for individuals to educate themselves on addiction before holding the intervention.

For some loved ones, they might think it is best to inform an intervention specialist of their plans.

An intervention specialist is an individual who can help educate you on how to lead an intervention and even possibly attend the intervention with you.

This will ensure that the intervention is kept on track, on topic and calm.

You might also want to read up on CRAFT. CRAFT (Community Reinforcement And Family Training) contains a lot of helpful advice and tips on the best way to intervene.

What Does it Usually Cost to Attend a Rehab Centre in Northern Ireland?

If you’re looking to attend private rehab in Northern Ireland for a drug or alcohol addiction, then you need to be informed of the costs.

If you have ever looked into the costs of private rehab, then you will be well aware of just how expensive it can be.

However, the reality is that the cost of rehab in Northern Ireland does differ a lot due to a number of different factors:

• How long an individual is required to stay in rehab for
• What type of rehab centre do you decide to stay in and what type of treatments they have on offer
• The location of the rehab centre
• Whether you decide to opt for a private room or a shared room

On average, a 10-day stay in a rehab centre usually costs approximately £3k-6k for a private room, which means you would be staying on your own. A shared room costs slightly less, at anything between £2k – £4k.

However, most people do tend to stay in rehab for longer than 10 days, with most staying approximately 28 days in rehab.

A 28-day stay in a rehab centre would cost approximately £8k – £12k for a private room and approximately £6k for a shared room.

For many people across Northern Ireland, these costs mean that they are unable to attend private rehab. For those in this situation, there is always a home detox to consider.

Home detox is when individuals receive treatment from a rehab centre at home, so they receive their treatment and therapy over the phone from a professional doctor and receive any treatment medication and instructions through the post.

As many can imagine, this option is only really available and suitable for those who suffer from a mild addiction, who are able to motivate themselves to recover on their own day today.

This option costs approximately £1,500, however as discussed, is not suitable for everyone.

Start your rehab journey in Northern Ireland today by calling our expert team on 0800 088 66 86

Some Helpful Tips on Choosing The Right Rehab Centre in Northern Ireland

If you are considering entering a drug or alcohol rehab centre and programme in Northern Ireland, then you do need to think long and hard about what it is that you want from your rehab centre.

For many people, choosing the right rehab in Northern Ireland can be extremely confusing and overwhelming. Luckily, there are many options out there each with its positive and negative points. However, this can result in choice overload.

This is often the opposite of what those dealing with an addiction need, as at this stage they will have a lot going on, with a lot of decisions to make and overwhelming thoughts.

That’s why Rehab Recovery has selected a list of useful tips on how to choose the very best rehab centre, specific for your needs.

In addition to this, during your very first phone call with Rehab Recovery, a member of our team will talk to you about exact, personalised needs and highlight what kind of rehab centre and treatment options would suit your exact needs.

The following list can be used when trying to find the right kind of rehab centre for you:

• Spend time researching online for all the available options in your area and surrounding area.
• When researching online, take a look at the type of treatment options they offer and see if they match with your addiction needs
• Give Rehab Recovery a call today and ask them what kind of treatment options they think you will need, so that you can match these treatment needs with the right rehab centre
• Ring up and speak to a member of the team at the rehab centre to ask them about their treatment and admissions process
• Try to think about whether or not you would like to remain close to home when choosing the right rehab centre. For some, they might want to choose a rehab centre far away from home in order to avoid triggers.

What is a Detox and Why Would Someone In Northern Ireland Need One?

For many people, a medical detox has to be part of their rehab recovery plan. Detox is when a person suffering from an addiction stops consuming the drug, withdrawing and detoxing their body from the addictive substance.

By withdrawing from the drug or addictive substance, you are allowing your body the chance to overcome any cravings and rid your body of the addictive substances that are ruining your life.

As your body is able to crave the drug even when psychologically you are overcoming your craving, you will need to undergo a medical detox for many different types of drugs. This will occur before any therapy or psychological treatment has taken place.

However, many people suffering from addiction are overwhelmed at the thought of undergoing the withdrawal symptoms associated with a detox.

There is no doubt that the withdrawal symptoms experienced are very unpleasant and difficult to overcome. For many people, this brings with it its own health concerns and risks.

This is why it is highly important that all medical detoxes take place in a controlled environment with medical health professionals.

Whilst everyone might struggle differently when it comes to withdrawal symptoms, below is a list of some very common withdrawal symptoms that range from mild to moderate and severe:

• Frequently feeling nauseous and being physically sick
• Experiencing tremors
• Experiencing frequent and intense headaches and migraines
• Experiencing diarrhoea
• Experiencing chills and sweats
• Frequently feeling paranoid, depressed or anxious
• Struggling to sleep at night time
• Experiencing bad and intense nightmares when you do manage to get to sleep
• Often getting ill with a cold

Unfortunately, these unpleasant withdrawal symptoms can develop very quickly into your detox. In fact, they can happen as quickly as a few hours into a detox.

These can also last a number of days or even weeks, depending on the severity of your addiction.

Whilst at rehab, professionals take a detox very seriously. Medical professionals will monitor your health continuously, and will also often prescribe medication such as Librium.

Librium is used to help overcome the anxiety experienced whilst withdrawing and is often prescribed within the first few days of a detox.

Start your recovery journey today by calling our expert team on 0800 088 66 86

What’s the Average Length of Time that People Usually Stay in Rehab?

There is no exact or specific time frame that suits all. How long individuals will stay at an alcohol or drug rehab very much depends on the individual and their addiction severity.

For those who suffer from a mild addiction, they might only be required to stay in rehab for a total of 7 days.

However, this is the least amount of time that people stay in rehab and does often get extended if needed.

For a moderate addiction, individuals often spend a total of 28 days in rehab. This is often the average length of time individuals spend in rehab, as 7-10 days is often not enough time to complete detox as well as treatment.

Nevertheless, for those with a severe addiction they might be asked to stay for up to 80 days. However, the individual’s progression will be monitored very closely.

Start your recovery journey at a rehab clinic today by calling our expert team on 0800 088 66 86

Cocaine Rehab in Northern Ireland

If you’re suffering from a cocaine addiction in Northern Ireland, then it’s important to understand that you will need to attend rehab for your addiction.

Cocaine is a highly addictive drug that affects the brain and can even change the way the brain works. However, cocaine and crack cocaine are not physically addictive.

Therefore, if you suffer from an addiction to cocaine then you will not need to undergo a physical cocaine detox. You will however need to undergo one-to-one therapy and other forms of addiction counselling.

Heroin Rehab in Northern Ireland

Just like cocaine, heroin is also another highly addictive drug. However, heroin is both physically and psychologically addictive.

This means that individuals will first need to undergo a physical heroin detox and risk dangerous withdrawal symptoms when they first enter rehab.

Once this has been completed, they will then be able to undergo therapy to tackle the psychological causes of their heroin addiction.

Rehab can help you with your heroin withdrawal, as well as any effects of using heroin such as hepatitis.

Cannabis Rehab in Northern Ireland

Cannabis is also highly addictive and can make individuals paranoid, unproductive, anxious and depressed.

However, cannabis is only psychologically addictive, and not physically addictive. This means that although your body might not crave the drug, your mind will.

Therefore, if you’re looking into rehab for cannabis addiction in Northern Ireland, then you will not need to undergo a cannabis detox. You will however need to undergo therapy and potentially CBT.

Start your recovery journey today by calling our expert team on 0800 088 66 86

Types of Therapies on Offer in Northern Ireland Rehab Centres

Luckily, there are many different forms of therapy on offer in rehab centres throughout Northern Ireland.

If you are interested in receiving therapy for an addiction, then take a look at the below treatment options usually available across the UK and Northern Ireland.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive behavioural therapy is one of the most popular and successful forms of treatment used at alcohol and drug addiction treatment services in Northern Ireland, and throughout the world.

CBT works through one to one therapy with a professional, where they delve into your thoughts and behavioural patterns. Over time, this can tackle an individual’s cravings and triggers.

Family therapy

Most rehab centres in Northern Ireland also offer family therapy. This is where individuals are given the opportunity to sit down with their families to discuss their addiction.

It’s a great way to overcome any possible triggers that exist at home and by doing so in a calm environment, you are much more likely to see a result.

Brief Interventions

A brief intervention is another great form of therapy that is commonly used in rehab centres across Northern Ireland. It often takes place at the start of the admissions process and tries to determine whether or not an individual is able to recover on their own or through a home detox.

Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (also commonly referred to as DBT)

DBT is similar to CBT in that it aims to help reframe thoughts and emotions.

However, the biggest difference between DBT and CBT is that DBT is used on people who suffer from extremely strong emotions, and aims to find individuals a balance between accepting how they feel and finding ways of overcoming it.

Codependency Treatment

Unfortunately, many people suffering from addiction are codependent. This is when a person feels attached and dependent on a person, thing or substance. So much so that they put this need above their own basic needs.

This creates a very low sense of self-esteem and can contribute to addiction and mental health issues. Whilst at rehab, you will also receive one to one treatment for this.

Motivational Interviewing

Motivational interviewing helps individuals uncover their own motivations for wanting to recover.

Motivational interviewing helps overcome any uncertainty or ambivalence individuals might have about recovery.

Group therapy

Group therapy is a very common form of therapy in Northern Ireland and will be offered to most individuals whilst at rehab or when they return back home.

It is a great opportunity for people to talk to other sufferers and learn from them and their stories.

Holistic Therapy

Holistic therapy is also a great treatment option and is now used at many rehabs in Northern Ireland and across the world. Holistic therapy includes activities such as meditation, mindfulness, art therapy and music.

Individual therapy

If you do not like the idea of attending group therapy, then you will also be offered one-to-one therapy with a psychologist or professional therapist. You will be offered things like motivational interviewing and CBT in one to one therapy.

Twelve-Step Facilitation Therapy

For those who want to attend therapy outside of a drug and alcohol rehab in Northern Ireland, the 12 step facilitation therapy involves attending self-help groups that use the 12 step recovery plan, such as the AA.

Things to Include in Your Relapse Prevention Plan

1. Find a Person You Can Rely On

It’s a good idea to include an ‘in case of emergency’ person in your relapse prevention plan.

This is so that if an emergency occurs, then you can call upon them for help.

You need to make sure that you can rely on this person, so make sure that they are someone who doesn’t abuse substances, who you’ve known for a while and who you can trust and be open and honest with.

2. Try Meditation

Meditation is also a great technique to be included in a relapse prevention plan.

There are many different forms of meditation, and most rehab centres will also be able to advise you on different forms of meditation for you to experiment with.

3. Self Care

When it comes to your relapse prevention plan, do not forget to include a little self-care.

Self-care is extremely important to your mental health and isn’t something you should forget about when you leave rehab.

There are many different self-care techniques, and you could include things such as exercise, walking, having a shower, eating healthily or reading a book.

4. HALT

If you feel a craving coming on, then try the HALT method and technique. HALT stands for hungry, angry, lonely and tired.

When you start to feel a craving coming on, cure your craving for food, company, peace and sleep. Make sure that you cure these cravings first.

You will often find that you no longer crave the addictive substance.

Start your alcohol or drug addiction treatment in Northern Ireland today by calling our expert team on 0800 088 66 86

Addiction Help in Northern Ireland

There are a number of options for people who require addiction help in Northern Ireland including:

• Local alcohol and drug rehabilitation centres
• 12 Step recovery groups
• Medical assistance
• Charity groups

Addiction Help for Expats in Northern Ireland

The options for people dealing with addiction problems in Northern Ireland are plentiful.

There are many 12 Step groups, but in order for the person to have a good chance to break away from addiction they are likely going to need to spend some time in rehab.

Fortunately, there are a number of quality rehab clinics in Northern Ireland and across the UK.

These days, attending rehab is very common, and attending a clinic in Northern Ireland for rehab is a straightforward process – especially when you take advantage of our help.

If you are from the UK mainland but living in Northern Ireland, you may decide to travel back to your home country for the help you need, or we will be able to arrange a suitable facility in Northern Ireland.

Start your recovery journey in Northern Ireland today by calling our expert team on 0800 088 66 86

Things to Consider When Looking for Addiction Help in Northern Ireland

There are a number of things that the individual will need to consider when looking for addiction help in Northern Ireland:

• Northern Ireland is a relatively small country – the largest city only has a population of just over 230,000. This means that the addiction and recovery options available locally may be limited, particularly if you suffer from a condition requiring specialist care.
• If the individual intends to enter a rehab in Northern Ireland but returns back to the UK mainland directly afterwards, it may be tricky to arrange aftercare. It is important to be clear about how the person will get sufficient support once they return home.

Addiction Help Outside of Northern Ireland

One of the great things about modern technology is that it has made the world a much smaller place. It is relatively easy for a person in one part of the world to find out information about things that are available in another part of the world.

This can be a real advantage for those people who are looking for addiction help. It will mean that their addiction options are greatly increased.

You will be able to check out addiction treatment options across Northern Ireland, the rest of the UK or even in other international destinations. Those individuals who are looking for information about their international rehab options can save themselves a great deal of time by getting in contact with us here.

Finding Drug and Alcohol Rehab in Northern Ireland today

Choosing the right rehab can be a difficult choice to make, but this is not something that you are going to need to do alone. We are here to help you look at all the available options so that you can make the most appropriate decision.

Our team is highly knowledgeable about rehab services in Northern Ireland, and we will be able to make the arrangements once you do make a decision.

The biggest problem that people will usually have when choosing a rehab is that they do not know what is available and how to access what is there. Reach out to us today and we will find the solution to ending your addiction problems.

Get help for addiction across Northern Ireland, including in Belfast, Lisburn, Derry, County Antrim, Newry, Newton Abbey, Bangor, Armagh, Ballymena, Newtownards, Carrickfergus, Coleraine, Lurgan, Portadown, Larne, Dungannon, Banbridge, Dundonald, Enniskillen, Strabane, Craigavon and many more

Start your recovery journey in Northern Ireland today by calling our expert team on 0800 088 66 86