Government policies for treating drug addicts in England are flawed and “doomed to failure”, a think tank says.
The Centre for Policy Studies says rehabilitation is a better use of the £3.6bn now spent on treating users with drug substitutes like methadone and keeping them on benefits each year.

But it says plans to reward groups which treat addicts so they can return to work were open to manipulation.
The Department of Health said it aimed to get users “off drugs for good”.

The coalition government wants to change the way drug addiction is tackled, with more people with problems diverted away from prison and into treatment as part of what it calls a “rehabilitation revolution”.
Part of this involves rewarding treatment providers who show addicts have improved their health and employment prospects.

Transfer of power

A report from the right-of-centre think tank, which has links to the Conservative Party, says these payment-by-results schemes were being run by the very organisations “responsible for the current failure of policy”.
Our approach will be to go much further and offer every support for people to choose recovery”

Department of Health

It says the current annual cost of maintaining treatment for 320,000 problem drug users is made up of £1.7bn in benefits, £1.2bn for looking after their children and £730m for prescribing the heroin substitute methadone.
The think tank calls for “a real transfer of power from large distant organisations to small innovative providers” for rehabilitation.

It says such units have a better chance of getting addicts off drugs completely, adding: “There is one simple measure of success: That of six months abstinence from drugs.”

According to the report’s author Kathy Gyngell, chairwoman of the prisons and addictions policy forum at the CPS, prescribing methadone to addicts delays their recovery.

She told the BBC: “The state is subsidising people to be any number of years on methadone, which has turned out not to be a cheap option and will only subsidise the tiniest proportion – 2% – to go into a rehabilitation unit that would actually free them from dependency and allow them to live their life.”

A Department of Health spokesman said: “The 2010 Drug Strategy is fundamentally different from those that have gone before.

“Instead of focusing primarily on reducing the harms caused by drug misuse, our approach will be to go much further and offer every support for people to choose recovery as an achievable way out of dependence.”

He added: “Work is under way to support local recovery systems tailored to the needs of communities, many of which are already showing positive results.”

Drugs treatment policy for England ‘doomed to failure’ is a post from: Recovery Coaching

One estimate says that almost 12 million individuals in the country show some kind of symptoms of drug addiction. To be able to support these individuals work through their destructive addictions and remain sober for the long term, it is essential to understand but the causes and symptoms and then apply the solutions that will help them successfully beat the dependency.

To be able to overcome a drug addiction, the user is going to require some help. You can’t simply get past a severe condition by wishing it will disappear. That is why friends and loved ones, along with the professionals in a treatment facility, will need to focus on helping the abuser recognize the root cause of the condition. This must be addressed because if they do not know what drove them down this course in the first place, the probability of relapse is great.

The next task is to help the user admit that their substance use has gotten out of their control, and that they really have a drug addiction. Almost all addicts have already convinced themselves that they aren’t seriously addicted, or even worse, they’ve convinced themselves that they don’t desire to quit. They need to realize that there is a real problem.

Drug addiction is inclined to go through some recognizable stages and drug use progresses to drug seeking behavior, which then becomes a weakness to relapse and a decreased capacity to respond to normal and naturally fulfilling stimuli.

This process of drug addiction is often summed up in three categories. The very first is the preoccupation or anticipation stage, where drugs are continuously on the mind. The second is the binge or intoxication phase, where drug use begins to get out of hand, and the third involves tolerance, withdrawal, along with a decreasing desire to engage in normal life activities. It’s difficult to watch an individual go through these stages, however with the proper treatment, it is possible to break out of the never-ending cycle and begin living a healthy, drug-free life.

The progression of drug addiction is affected by genetic, psychosocial, and environmental factors, and it isn’t always easy to spot the signs of addiction, but it is critically important to understand exactly what you are looking for so that you can step in and aid a loved one if it is necessary, or even to realize the symptoms in yourself.

Some of the well-known the signs of drug addiction include feeling you need to use the drug daily, failing repeated attempts to stop, always maintaining a supply of the drug on hand, and acting against your identity to get the drugs. There are also several signs which may be apparent depending on the kinds of drugs being used, such as red eyes, forgetfulness, slowed response, despair, weight loss, irritability, and much more. Always be familiar with these signs, and search for qualified help to defeat any drug issues.

One thing that Jamison knows about is alcohol treatment program and the problems it can cause. He will be able to teach you all about Malibu alcohol treatment and the concept of implement an effective program. For additional information see his related articles.

Alcohol Treatment Center Brings New Hope is a post from: Recovery Coaching

When you use nicotine, your body begins to rely on it both mentally and physically. You can’t quit smoking because you have to face both the psychological and physical issues facing you at this point, which is often overwhelming for anyone.

It bears repeating that nicotine is the addictive element in cigarettes and not the smoke or the tobacco itself – once the nicotine travels into your lungs with the cigarette smoke, it then manifests itself in your bloodstream and through the rest of your body, affecting your health and making you dependent.

Your heart and blood vessels, your brain, your hormones, and your metabolism are all directly affected by nicotine. Even though you may logically know the damage being done, your ability to quit smoking is diminished because the drug has the same effect as endorphins, releasing mood-elevating feelings that cause you to crave more.

But nicotine has another result. Even if you’re trying to maintain your current rate of smoking, or cutting down, your body is urged to have a few more smokes – after all, you’re at the point where you feel your usage is normal. Compared to intravenous drugs, nicotine can make your body react a bit faster.

If you are able to quit smoking, nicotine will still reside in your body for up to four days after you stop using it. And during these four days, you will experience nicotine withdrawal, which can be a harrowing experience, both mentally and physically.

The physical symptoms of nicotine withdrawal – headaches, nausea, dizziness and fitful sleep – are bad enough, but not as bad as the mental symptoms, which could include depression, frustration, a quick temper or increased levels of stress and anxiety.

The feeling of withdrawal could be so depressing that most smokers will return to their cigarettes in order for the symptoms to go away. The dilemma of withdrawal symptoms when someone quits smoking can last for days or weeks, depending on the severity of the addiction.

It is possible, though, to quit smoking for good – all it takes is a little patience to deal with the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. One way you can quit smoking in the first try is through smoking cessation aids, though if you can’t quit smoking on the first try, it’s okay – many have to try several times before succeeding.

Interested in tips for living a healthy lifestyle? We’re your healthy living guide to eating well and living an active life.

Nicotine Can Make It Hard For You To Quit Smoking is a post from: Recovery Coaching

She and other dieticians see deficiency in omega-3 fatty acids as one of the issues. Based on an individual’s preferred substance or primary complaints, Reuben says researchers can tell which amino acids, vitamins and nutrients are lacking.

Those suffering from substance often don’t follow a healthy diet. Moreover, drugs deplete vitamins and nutrients from the substance abuser’s body, so replacing and sustaining them are an important part of recovery. Furthermore, drugs drain vitamins and nutrients from the user’s body, so replenishing and maintaining them are an a significant part of rehabilitation.

Reuben asserts, paraphrased, that there exists an an important link between our demeanor and our sustenance, a direct link between our diet and happy disposition. When an individual starts drinking or engaging in substance abuse and their reply is, “I don’t feel high, I feel natural,” that’s the key that says they came into life with a neurochemical abnormality. They are deficient in something and we can fix that with our diet, sometimes with amino acids, fish oil, vitamin C or B. Fish oil benefits seem to be extremely important.

This method is based on a study by Professor Stephen Schoenthaler, PhD, who discovered a relationship between elevated sugar consumption, reduced vitamin intake and violence, in 1985. He noticed that prison inmates who were given daily nutritional supplements experienced as much as a 43% decrease in violence, which prompted investigators to commence researching the link between nutrition and dependency. More recent studies have also learned that giving inmates fish oil capsules also decreases violence.

The CARA program proposes that people (in conjunction with their doctor) begin a program of taking 3 meals a day, each having at least 20 g of protein, at least 4 cups of veggies, 2000 mg of vitamin C, a multivitamin, 1000-3000 mg of omega-3, 500 mg of L-glutamine, and 2-3 mcg of chromium.

It also suggests avoiding white sugar and flour, which could possibly deplete the body of vitamin B. It also encourages doing away with white sugar and flour, which can drain the body of vitamin B. Although many factors are responsible for substance and alcohol addiction, eating a diet rich in nutrients, vitamins, minerals and fish oil pills is definitely an essential part of the successful route to recovery and a substance-free life!

For more information on how to help a substance or alcohol addict you ought to call 1-877-782-7409 or access Addicthelp.org.

Read more about fish oil supplements on the website of Brittany W. Wallace. Brittany is an expert on health who studied fish oil benefits for over 10 years.

For Many Drug Addicts, Recovery Typically Involves Omega 3 Fish Oil is a post from: Recovery Coaching

It is easier to think of potential causes of alcoholism as risk factors. Many people responsibly enjoy drinking but certain things may trigger the development of alcohol dependency. High levels of stress, depression, and low self-esteem have all been linked to underlying problems in alcoholics.

For example, heavy drinking in the short term as a response to the death of a close family member isn’t alcoholism, but there is a risk this initial use of alcohol to cope with the emotional shock develops into a greater dependency. With the help of a therapist, undergoing something known as cognitive behaviour therapy may help someone experiencing emotional problems find other coping strategies, minimising the risk of alcoholism progressing.

As with most conditions, it is thought a hereditary link may also be party responsible for alcoholism. Around 30% of men who have an alcoholic parent will go on to be alcoholic themselves (there is a weaker link among women). While it is very possible that it is not the genetic make-up that is responsible for this but rather learned behaviour, or a traumatic childhood, evidence for a genetic link has been found in studies carried out on identical twins separated at birth. This genetic link may account for the fact that many alcoholics have insulin resistance syndrome (a problem processing sugars).

This of course does not guarantee that if a family member was an alcoholic you will be too, it just means that you should be aware that statistically you are at a higher risk. Just as people who are aware they are at a high risk of developing other medical conditions may modify their lifestyle slightly, it is advisable that speaking to a GP about any concerns will give you the assurance that help is available should you need it. Equally, alcoholism has the potential to affect anybody, even those who don’t appear to fall into any of the risk categories – advice services are always there for anybody who is concerned.

Want to find out more about alcohol addiction, then visit Heather Boddington’s site on how to choose the best Thiamine for your needs.

Alcohol Addiction is a post from: Recovery Coaching

Because many people are losing their jobs, large cuts to public services are being planned, and the outlook for the future looks generally gloomy, stress and depression among the population looks set to rise. As these factors are associated as possible triggers of alcoholism, the number of alcoholics may also rise.

The idea that a minimum price for alcohol units will significantly change drinkers’ behaviour is misguided – it will only worsen any financial struggles for the most vulnerable. The 5-10% of adults who are alcoholics and the many more at risk of alcoholism need a better approach from the government to help them.

Alcoholism has the potential to ruin lives. As alcoholics will often be tired and forgetful relationships and work commitments will suffer and engagement with previously enjoyable activities usually stops. Alcohol becomes so important the body becomes dependent on it to function properly and withdrawal can lead to feelings of anxiety, sweats, nausea and tremors, or even convulsions and fits.

As the side effects of withdrawal can be particularly nasty it is recommended that people who are seeking to tackle their alcoholism undergo the initial detoxification under the supervision of a professional. Medicines that alleviate the symptoms of withdrawal and aid in the reparation of the brain and nervous system are given in this case.

Different Treatments may be more suitable for alcoholics that have not reached this level of dependency. For example, in cognitive behaviour therapy, patients look for alternatives to alcohol to help them cope with stress and other pressures with the help of a therapist. But at whatever stage of alcoholism, advice from a GP or healthcare professional will help initiate recovery.

Find out more about alcohol withdrawal symptoms

Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms is a post from: Recovery Coaching

It can often be hard to determine whether an addiction is developing, rather than just heavy drinking, because alcoholics are reluctant to admit or identify that they have a dependency. If the subject of their drinking makes them irritable or if they plainly refuse to talk about it then coupled with other behaviours this may be a sign they have an alcohol problem.

Not having the effort to fulfil work or relationship commitments and giving up activities that were once enjoyable are all indicators that alcohol has become the major influence in their life. Needing drinks at regular times, maybe at dinner, or on the other hand a loss of appetite are also warning signals. Legal troubles stemming from the cost of their addiction may also arise, even though this isn’t as much of a problem as with other forms of drug abuse.

People are generally aware of the permanent damage alcohol can do to the liver, but for alcoholics whose bodies are dependent on alcohol the withdrawal symptoms are more alarming. While fits and convulsions will occur in extreme situations, tremors, sweats, nausea, feeling of anxiety and cravings are all too common.

Health professionals are able to administer medication to restrict these symptoms for the recovering alcoholic who is initially removing alcohol from their body (detoxification), easing the process considerably. In addition vitamin B1, which repairs damage done by alcohol to the nervous system and brain is given.

Because alcohol has such a stigma attached to it alcoholics often feel isolated and may appear unwilling to help free themselves from their disease. But if you are considered about your own or a loved one’s drinking habits talking to a doctor or someone experienced in the subject of alcohol addiction will help you make a decision about what to do next.

Find out more about the am I an alcoholic test.

Am I An Alcoholic? is a post from: Recovery Coaching

Many people who take different types of drugs in different circumstances will each need different types of drug addiction treatment.

There are three main steps to drug addiction treatment and the first is the user recognising they have an addiction problem and wanting to do something about it. Without a positive desire to change their behaviour they are unlikely to attain long-term abstinence. This step shouldn’t be underestimated, as addicts are often reluctant to admit they are powerless to their cravings.

After initial consultations the detoxification of the body takes place, which eliminates any trace of the drug that might still be in the bloodstream. If this isn’t done under supervision there may be painful withdrawal symptoms and the addict may give into cravings.

One of the most popular detoxification methods involves substituting a drug for a weaker, less dangerous alternative – methadone is a common substitute for heroin for example. Over time the user is weaned off the drug. A drug-free alternative detoxification process emphasises the power of nutrients and vitamins and uses massaging and other techniques to ease any pains.

The third and final step potentially lasts forever – counselling or support that will encourage behaviour change and lead to last abstinence. Some of the more popular counselling methods include multidimensional family therapy or cognitive behaviour therapy. With a strong support system in place recovery is much more likely.

There are in fact many different ways to implement treatments. The obvious difference between residential treatment and outpatient care illustrate the fact that different approaches may mean the difference between recovery and relapse for different individuals.

For this reason it is not possible to say that one particular drug addiction treatment is the ‘best.’ Equally important are the specialised services available to ex-addicts that allow them to have the benefits of a drug-free life.

Find out more about drug addiction treatment

Drug Addiction Treatment is a post from: Recovery Coaching

Experts have identified several reasons that may help explain why men are more likely than women to develop alcoholism. Culturally there is still more of a stigma attached to women who drink excessively while men can still get away with it.

Men are more likely to identify with alcoholic parents than women (30% of men with alcoholic parents become alcoholic themselves while the rate is much lower for women). Women have a greater support network to turn to in times of stress; men who keep their feelings to themselves may resort to drinking.

The different ways in which female bodies react to alcohol means that although fewer become alcoholic the risks are more serious. Men and women of an identical height and build consuming an identical amount of alcohol will react in different ways because of a woman’s higher proportion of body fat and lower proportion of body water.

This means women have a more concentrated amount of alcohol in their bloody, which may also be caused by the fact they have less of the alcohol metabolised before it enters their bloodstream due to having less of a particular enzyme (dehydrogenase). This means that liver disease can develop in a shorter period of time.

Even more worrying is the prospect that some women cannot stop themselves drinking while pregnant. In this instance the baby may develop foetal alcohol syndrome, a group of birth defects that are caused by the consumption of alcohol while pregnant.

Poor socialization skills, epilepsy and facial abnormalities are just a few symptoms of this condition, so obviously it is vital that pregnant alcoholics are given the support they are needed to ensure their child isn’t lumbered with problems that will affect it for a lifetime.

Alcoholism has the power to wreck the lives of men and women. Professional help, in the form of residential treatment, is the surest way to end the cycle of substance abuse regardless of how hopeless you believe your situation to be.

Want to find out more about alcohol abuse, then visit Jennifer Allerton’s site on how to choose the best acamprosate for your needs.

The Divide Between Men And Women On Alcoholism is a post from: Recovery Coaching

What Is Addiction?

According to medical sources, addiction is a chronic and relapsing brain disease that results in people having a compulsive need to take drugs or alcohol. The compulsion is so great that little or no thought is given to possible harmful circumstances. The reason that addiction is termed a type of brain disease is that drugs chemically change the brain structure and how it functions. This has long-term effects on the behavior of the person which is often harmful to them and those around them. There are many social and economic problems that can result from drug and alcohol addiction.

Why Do People Become Addicts?

It is rare that people set out to become addicts. More often, they are lured into experimenting with drugs and once in the habit of taking them, they then become addicts. There four main reasons that have been identified as common reasons why people start to take drugs. The first are curiosity and peer pressure. This is most prevalent with teenagers and young adults. They experiment with drugs because everyone else is, or because they are offered something at a party and are dared to take it. Another reason people take drugs is to simply feel good. Drugs give you a feeling of intense pleasure. Some drugs such as cocaine may even make you feel intensely powerful and indestructible. Heroine usually results in feelings of satisfaction and relaxation. Taken from that perspective, you can see why drugs can be alluring. People also take drugs to feel better. Perhaps they find themselves in difficult or stressful circumstances and drugs help them to relax, feel good and forget about their problems for a while. People may also turn to drugs to help them do better or achieve certain results. This is often the case with athletes or businesspeople who are under pressure to achieve.

Who Are the People Affected by Addiction?

Often, addicts will think that their addiction is something personal that does not affect or involve people around them. However, sadly this is often not the case. Addiction changes a person’s behavior and how they handle their relationships with their friends and family. It can have a huge influence on babies and small children. If parents are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they will often neglect or physically abuse their children because they are only interested in feeding their habit. Babies born from mothers who are addicts can suffer from intellectual and growth development problems. Conversely, parents of children who are addicts can often feel helpless as they try to reach out to their children. Trust is forfeited because addicts will often steal, lie or cheat just to be able to get their next fix. Addiction affects a person’s ability to function in the work place and earn a living wage. Often, this will lead to addicts getting involved in less desirable or illegal professions.

Is Drug Addition a Voluntary Behavior?

Often, drug experimentation is voluntary and people choose to try different types of drugs for the experience of it. However, it is important to remember that drugs change the functioning of the brain. Scientific research show that after prolonged use of drugs, an addict’s ability to make cognitive decisions relating to behavior, learning and memory is severely affected. These studies have led to the conclusion that this can explain the compulsive behavior of addicts. Not all people are affected by drugs in the same way. Some people are more vulnerable to addiction than others due to genetic, emotional and environmental influences. People in certain social environments may be less likely to become addicts. If someone has a strong family structure and a school and social environments where they feel safe and comfortable, then typically they will be less inclined to experiment with drugs. However, it is important to note that this is a generalization and there are always exceptions to every rule.

Catherine Cosgrove is the Clinical Director of Heritage Home Foundation and an addictions-specialist psychotherapist with over 20 years experience. At Heritage Home Foundation our team has worked in drug rehab centers for many years and will give you a personal, unique, and individualized approach to emotional healing and sobriety. Stop suffering with addiction! Visit us online today!

Understanding How Addiction Works is a post from: Recovery Coaching