Drug Addiction

Scotland has one of the worst drug problems in Europe. With over 60,000 people who regularly take drugs, many of these will go on to form an addiction that will require intervention.

Whilst a lot of people may take drugs as part of experimentation growing up and easily quit, for others a drug addiction can develop and spiral out of control, taking over your life and even ending it prematurely.

Drug Addiction In Scotland

According to PHS, around 1 in 60 people have a problem with drug issues here in Scotland. Drug use is also the 6th leading cause of early death in Scotland, making this an issue that has and is hurting families across the country on a daily basis. Common drug addictions include:

• Heroin
• Methadone
• Crack
• Cocaine
• Cannabis
• Speed
• Prescription Drugs

Away from alcohol addiction which is widespread, the most lethal drug that causes death in Scotland is based on opioid use such as heroin.  In many cases, more than one drug was found involved in a death. Data regarding further widespread drug use in Scotland can be found in the latest National Records report which indicates drug deaths have been rising every year since 2013.

Why Does Scotland Have an Addiction Problem?

There is a clear link between poverty and drug addiction. When we look at Scotland some of the most deprived areas have a higher rate of drug addiction and count for us having the highest overdose rate per head in the whole of Europe.

Years of underinvestment in education and rising levels of poverty have certainly added fuel to the number of addicts we have in our country.

Addiction Stigma

One other reason is that because of the stigma associated with certain drug addictions, can put people off seeking help. This mindset can really put people off from seeking treatment as they may feel embarrassed or ashamed to face up to their problems by admitting they have a problem and taking action to resolve it.

People in England are more likely to seek treatment for addiction compared to Scots according to Scot’s drug Forum CEO David Liddel. Retention for services has also been hit alongside cuts in alcohol and drug partnerships providing treatment. So for us to change, we need not only social changes but a change in mindset.

People do need to realise they have an addiction and take action to get treatment, often the 1st step is recognising the issue and actually admitting you need help.

Why is it vital to overcome the denial of addiction?

If you are struggling to acknowledge drug addiction or feel caught in denial, it is still worth taking the concern seriously. Addiction can affect judgement, relationships, health, finances, work and safety, and it can become harder to address the longer it continues.

Avoiding the problem can allow withdrawal symptoms, cravings and longer-term effects of drug use to worsen. Drug addiction can also overlap with anxiety, depression, trauma or another mental health concern, which may mean a dual diagnosis approach is needed.

A useful first step is to look honestly at current drug use, side effects, risks, failed attempts to stop and whether daily life is being affected. If addiction may be present, ask a GP, NHS service or treatment provider what level of support is appropriate.

Treatment does not have to start with certainty. It can start with asking informed questions about detox, outpatient support, residential rehab, therapy and aftercare.

The value of completing drug addiction treatment

Some people try to stop drug use suddenly and alone. In some situations this can be uncomfortable, unsafe or difficult to maintain, especially where dependence, withdrawal risk, mental health concerns or unstable home circumstances are present.

Drug addiction can involve both physical and psychological dependence. Because of this, treatment may need to combine medical advice, detox planning, therapy, relapse prevention, peer support, family guidance and aftercare.

The value of structured treatment is that it can help people understand triggers, manage cravings, reduce harm and build healthier coping strategies. A suitable provider should explain what assessment is completed, what treatment is recommended and why that route is appropriate.

Although private rehab is one option, it is not the only route. NHS services, community addiction teams, outpatient treatment, mutual aid and private therapy may also be relevant depending on risk, location and personal circumstances.

Preparing for a rehab enquiry

If you are considering residential rehab or another structured treatment route, preparation can make the enquiry more useful. Before speaking with a provider, note the substances used, frequency, withdrawal symptoms, mental health concerns, medication, previous treatment, home risks and any urgent safety issues.

A provider should explain assessment, suitability, likely treatment length, costs, detox arrangements, therapy, family involvement and aftercare. Be cautious of any route that promises a guaranteed outcome without understanding your situation first.

Recovery Scotland can help you compare questions to ask before making an enquiry. The aim is to choose support that fits your health needs, risk level, budget and longer-term recovery plan.

Get Help With Drug Addiction Treatment Questions

From prescription drugs and alcohol to illicit drugs, long-term use can develop into dependence and a cycle of addiction. If drug use is affecting health, relationships, work, finances or safety, it is worth seeking advice as early as possible.

Recovery Scotland can help you understand the value behind specific drug addiction treatments, detox planning, residential rehab, outpatient support and aftercare. You can contact Recovery Scotland for confidential guidance before speaking with providers.

If there is immediate danger, overdose risk or severe withdrawal, call 999. For non-emergency medical advice in Scotland, contact NHS 24 on 111 or speak with a GP.