Alcohol dependence and mental health

As per modern medical research, patient dependent on alcohol, Charas, Ganja, Bhang and Afeem experience many mental health problems. Patients and their family members usually complaint changes in behavior during consumption or abstaining from alcohol. According to world Health Organization’s ICD 10, common problems are mood disorders, depressive disorders, delusions, hallucinations etc. With proper care under Neuropsychiatrist, detoxification and counseling can solve patient’s problems.

What are common addictions in India?

With modernization, multiple source of information, exposure to cinema and easy availability of addicting substances, it is seen that today’s youth as well as middle age and old  people are getting addicted to various recreational substances. The uses of common substances like chewing tobacco, alcohol, smoking, bhang, ganja, smack, brown sugar, and heroine have tremendously increased over past few years. In various studies it is also found that different category of newer substances like club drugs, inhalants, narcotic medicine ,which were earlier available to metro cities, are being used by small towns too.

Is it very painful to quit consuming addictive substances?

The process of abstaining from alcohol and others substances is popularly known among general public as ‘Detox’. It is often described in media as a very painful process, which is partly true. But the availability of better treatment options, modern medical and Indian traditional medicine makes it a very simple and effective process.

What do I do if my family member is addicted?

Addictions are usually long term progressive and can be life threatening, so it is advised that family members encourage them to get professional help if they are not able to stop on their own. There are different kind of interventions to help addicted, but the most  humanistic approach is encouragement by family members and therapiest. Rather than critisising the patient its advisable to express their love, concern and readiness to walk them through this difficult time.

Is addiction treatable?

For de addiction at sunflower rehab Centre various modalities such as medical Detox clinic, detox through admission, rapid and ultra Rapid detox methods can be used. Common mode of treatment involves various behaviour therapeutic approach such as cognitive behaviour  therapy, dialectic behavioural therapy, motivational interviewing, rational emotive behaviour therapy, among other forms of therapy. Psychiatrist has essential roll in prescribing anticraving medications and making process of detox smooth. During maintenance phase  group therapies, family therapy and  mutual help groups like aa can be joined.