Drug Addiction Treatment at Delamere

What is drug addiction?

Drug addiction is a chronic and progressive brain disorder characterised by a compulsion to take drugs despite negative consequences.
People take drugs to feel pleasure, reduce stress or enhance performance. With continued use, drugs can cause changes to brain circuitry which affect our response to reward, stress and self-control. ¹

When drugs become a priority over basic care needs, affecting work, family and social life, it’s time to seek drug addiction treatment.

Who needs drug addiction treatment?

Not everyone who takes drugs will develop an addiction but there are certain factors that put people at a higher risk.

These include a history of trauma or adverse childhood experiences, an unstable home environment, social pressure, and certain personality types.

Your home environment and social circles also play an important role in your relationship with drugs. For instance, people who grow up with parents who abuse drugs, and are exposed to drugs at a young age, are more likely to develop serious problems in the future. ¹

The key takeout is that drug addiction does affect people of all ages from all backgrounds and there is no shame in seeking professional treatment.

Signs and symptoms of drug abuse

Physical signs and symptoms of drug addiction (Substance Use Disorder) differ depending on the type of drug being used. Stimulants, such as cocaine, speed up the body and brain, while depressants, like cannabis, slow speech and movement down. There are, however, some general physical and mental red flags that signal drug abuse.

Early warning signs of drug abuse

• Strong drug cravings and compulsion to use
• Drug tolerance: needing more or mixing drugs for effect
• Drug dependence: experiencing withdrawal without drugs
• Being unreachable for extended periods
• Frequent drug intoxication

Behavioural changes in drug addiction

• Increased anxiety or depression
• Becoming socially withdrawn and demotivated
• Mood swings and irritability
• Erratic, unpredictable behaviour
• Hiding drugs or lying about using
• Neglecting work or school

Physical health indicators of a drug problem

• Substantial changes in sleeping pattern
• Changes in weight and appearance
• Poor coordination
• Bloodshot or ‘glazed’ eyes
• Constricted or dilated pupils
• Slurred speech

When to seek drug addiction treatment

People typically seek drug addiction help within a drug rehab when their relationship with drugs has become detrimental to themselves and the people around them physically, mentally, emotionally, socially, and spiritually.
Over the years, our professionals have worked with many guests who have battled drug addiction. For this reason, we understand that we’re all unique and different drugs present different challenges. Our experts assess the level of the problem before devising a tailored drug detox and support plan.

Help and Support for Drug Addiction Recovery