Alcohol Addiction in the UK and what to do
Alcohol addiction is a serious problem in the UK. According to recent statistics, over 8 million adults in England alone drink at harmful or hazardous levels. Alcohol misuse contributes to over 200 disease types and health conditions, and results in over 75,000 deaths per year in the UK.
What’s the extent of alcoholism in the UK?
Excessive alcohol use costs the UK economy over £21 billion per year due to issues like health care costs, lost productivity, and crime. Alcohol addiction has a devastating impact, yet it is a treatable health condition. The keys to overcoming an alcohol addiction are acknowledging the problem, seeking professional help, and committing to long-term lifestyle changes.
For those struggling with alcohol addiction, the best approach is to contact findrehab.co.uk.
We provide free and confidential support 24 hours a day, and can help guide people to accredited addiction treatment options including:
•Detoxification and medically-assisted withdrawal: The first step to overcoming alcohol addiction is safely detoxing from alcohol with medical supervision. We can refer you to licensed detox and withdrawal management services across the UK.
•Inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation: Rehab programs offer intensive therapy, support groups, life skills training, and aftercare planning to help you establish sobriety and prevent relapse.
•Counselling and therapy: Options include cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, family counselling, and trauma therapy. Counselling can be provided in-person, via telehealth, or over the phone.
•Support groups: Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous offer support from others struggling with alcohol addiction and help you stay committed to your sobriety.
At findrehab.co.uk, we believe recovery is a lifelong process.
That is why we provide referrals to not just treatment centers but also support groups and aftercare services to ensure your newfound sobriety sticks long-term. There is help and hope for overcoming an alcohol addiction. Please get in touch today to discuss treatment options and take your first step towards health, happiness and freedom from addiction.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the signs of alcohol addiction?
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Signs can include drinking more than you intend to, needing alcohol to get through the day, continuing to drink despite social health or monetary problems, and withdrawal symptoms when trying to reduce alcohol intake.
- How common is alcohol addiction in the UK?
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Approximately 1 in 5 adults in the UK drink at levels that pose a risk to their health. Around 4% of adults are classified as dependent drinkers, meaning they are addicted to alcohol.
- How can I get help for alcohol addiction in the UK?
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There are several options for treatment in the UK, including: • Talking therapies like counselling and CBT through the NHS - although this can take a long time • Rehab and detox programs, both inpatient and outpatient • Self-help groups like Alcoholics Anonymous •Medical interventions like acamprosate, disulfiram and naltrexone
- What is detox and medically assisted detox?
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Detox involves safely managing the symptoms of withdrawal while the alcohol leaves your system. Medications can help relieve symptoms and reduce cravings. A medically supervised detox may be necessary depending on your level of addiction and any health conditions.
- Will my employer find out if I seek treatment?
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Typically no, unless your specific treatment program has a policy to inform employers. Most rehabilitation and support services in the UK are confidential. Your general practitioner cannot disclose information about your addiction without your consent and your employer cannot ask.
- How can I help a loved one with alcohol addiction?
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You can support someone by encouraging them to seek professional help, setting boundaries, avoiding enabling behaviors, and taking care of yourself. But ultimately, those struggling with addiction need to want help for themselves.
