According to Statista, in 2021, 1,330 people died in Scotland as a result of their drug use. This has been the highest number since records began 25 years ago. Edinburgh and Dundee are unfortunately at the top of the list, with Glasgow closely following.
In the fight against the record number of drug-related deaths, there are stricter rules being imposed for drug abuse. However, drug addiction cannot simply be solved by punishment.
Addiction is a very complex disease, which needs sensitive handling and this is accomplished by addiction. Heroin, cocaine and crystal meth are the most common types of addiction in Scotland. However, prescription drug addiction is another big concern.
Rehabilitation is the only route to remove addiction from one’s life. It is a way to delve into the psychological elements of addiction, realising and understanding what led to addiction, and how to remove it safely from your life.
Detox and psychotherapies are the preferred method and boast high success rates. The first step is determining that an addiction is present, followed by choosing the best route for your rehabilitation journey.
What is Addiction?
Each drug that we take is composed of multiple substances that the body reacts to. Depending on their strength and composition, drugs cause mental or physical changes in people with prolonged use. When the effects of a drug no longer serve us, our body is slowly building up a tolerance to the substance.
This in turn creates a psychological effect and causes the body to crave it more. It is a type of dependence and can have a dangerous impact on your health once addiction sets in.
Numerous physical, psychological, social or even financial troubles may occur as a result of addiction, which often prompts family members to flag up the issue. Sometimes, when we are addicted to a substance, we do not want to admit it.
It may be felt that the drug is helping and making life better. However, any euphoric feelings that occur from drug taking, are only serving to make the addiction worse and are doing serious damage to your long-term health. Admitting to the problem is exceptionally courageous. Drug rehabilitation is the best route for treatment and achieves high success rates.
Drug Use in Dundee
For the past few years, there have been serious problems with substance addiction in Dundee. Dubbed the ‘drug death capital of Europe’, Dundee faces numerous issues with people of all ages suffering from addiction. As the numbers are on the increase, there are various people who are calling for action, including councillors and residents in the area.
A proactive approach is needed to tackle the issue, but if people facing addiction choose not to change their lives, then the problem will continue.
There are numerous ways to help yourself in Scotland. The public health system is moderately flawed, meaning that help is available, however, it is not instantaneous. There are long waiting lists and the treatments available are limiting, which means a higher chance of relapse is possible.
The NHS offers self-help groups, often in the form of AA meetings and local classes, but these are not always intensive enough to help people with severe addictions overcome substance. Private rehabilitation however, offers a fully comprehensive plan to tackle addiction head-on, with a supportive aftercare plan.
Addiction often occurs because of poor life choices. Furthermore, this could be triggered by past or present trauma, relationship issues, medical complaints, or severe mental health issues. If these are not addressed, the problem will spiral.
Long term addiction can lead to accidental overdose or long-term health issues. Not only does it have an effect on health, but there are also other areas to consider, such as financial troubles, criminal activity, homelessness and more.
Why Are the Highest Drug Deaths in Dundee?
The reason for drug use often comes hand in hand with the deprivation relating to the area. In cities and towns with less government funding, there are fewer opportunities for people, fewer means of support, and gradually this increases drug intake and crime.
There are always talks to implement new strategies, but without funding, this is often forgotten. Meanwhile, people facing addiction are not getting the help they deserve. They may not realise what help is available to them, including insurance options to help them get assistance privately.
Rehabilitation is a fix for the issue because rehab focuses on removing addiction and healing the mental health issues that have precipitated the addiction. Private rehab offers a detailed and intensive plan that helps addicts overcome the issue with a high chance of long term sobriety.
The tools and skills learned in rehab will prevent the misuse of drugs in the future, as it helps every addict to rewire their mind, focusing on new goals and offering them the support they need to undertake this in the future.
Treatment Options for Drug Addiction at Nova Recovery
At Nova Recovery, there are numerous pathways to sobriety. Success does not have to feel impossible. Rehabilitation combines numerous therapies, with detox and long-term support that helps you regain your confidence, and realise your potential. You are worthy of sobriety and you can achieve it.
The treatment options available vary depending on the type of addiction. Detoxification is the first phase, which removes the substance from your body in a safe setting. You will then move onto a second phase which incorporates numerous world-renowned psychotherapies and counselling.
Both of these combined are a winning formula for success. A dedicated aftercare plan will also be created for you to assist you with long-term sobriety. This includes follow-up counselling sessions, psychotherapies, and support networks.
For more information on how to get assistance with your addiction, please feel free to talk to us today. Our friendly and personable team members are available around the clock to speak with you. We want to help you get your life on track, so we can guide you towards the best programme for your addiction – call on 01475 303998.
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Back to all postsJohn Gillen - Author - Last updated: September 8, 2023
John has travelled extensively around the world, culminating in 19 years’ experience looking at different models. He is the European pioneer of NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) treatment to Europe in 2010; and recently back from the USA bringing state of the art Virtual Reality Relapse Prevention and stress reduction therapy. His passion extends to other metabolic disturbances and neurodegenerative diseases. The journey continues. In recent times, John has travelled to Russia to study and research into a new therapy photobiomudulation or systemic laser therapy working with NAD+ scientists and the very best of the medical professionals in the UK and the USA, together with Nadcell, Bionad Hospitals own select Doctors, nurses, dieticians and therapists. Johns’ passion continues to endeavour to bring to the UK and Europe new developments with NAD+ Therapy in preventive and restorative medicine and Wellness. In 2017 John Gillen was made a visiting Professor at the John Naisbitt university in Belgrade Serbia.