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Alcohol support

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Original poster

Detox and rehab options

13 replies

TheDogAndDuck · 30/07/2023 15:03

Trying to understand the options...

Friend is fairly hard core long term alcohol dependent. Just about keeping it together but health is severely compromised and things can't go on like this. They won't be able to stop on their own (it wouldn't be safe). They have started talking about getting help. I want to explore options with them but first I need to understand... I am fairly confident they will need residential detox. Where do we start?

(And before anyone else says it - I know I didn't cause it, I know I can't cure it and I know I can't control it).

OP posts:

Unescorted · 30/07/2023 15:15

Support provision is pretty hit and miss. Their GP is a good place to start. They should have a good idea on what is about and who needs to do the referral.

GardeningIdiot · 30/07/2023 15:17

I think it's usually a home detox with a benzodiazepine these days, OP. There will be a local drugs and alcohol service who you can usually self-refer to.

Original poster

TheDogAndDuck · 30/07/2023 15:21

Thank you.

I am pretty sure they will need more help and support than I can give for a home detox.

OP posts:

Purplecatshopaholic · 30/07/2023 15:23

GardeningIdiot · 30/07/2023 15:17

I think it's usually a home detox with a benzodiazepine these days, OP. There will be a local drugs and alcohol service who you can usually self-refer to.

This is what a friend of mine did. She went via a local drugs and alcohol service and they gave her a home detox for five days (I think it was) - not sure what she did/said to get the help. I stayed with her for the first few days in case of seizures, which they recommended. It seemed pretty brutal at first - she kind of vegged in bed or the sofa - no seizures or issues though. Hasn’t drunk since and that was a few years ago now.

HuntingoftheSnark · 30/07/2023 17:29

I would start with her GP, and also see if there is a CGL nearby (Change Grow Live) as they may be able to advise on treatment options.

Original poster

TheDogAndDuck · 30/07/2023 17:41

GP knows but is not helpful - a bit 'its your own fault'. Friend is getting some hospital tests done... is scared.

OP posts:

2023forme · 30/07/2023 21:34

@TheDogAndDuck - good on you for supporting your friend through this. Assuming you are in the U.K. , friend is unlikely to get in-patient detox on the NHS unless they get full on DTs. As a pp said, much more likely to be supported at home detox alongside a tapering off plan. If friend can afford it, the priory do it for about 3 grand a week I believe.

good luck

GardeningIdiot · 30/07/2023 21:41

TheDogAndDuck · 30/07/2023 17:41

GP knows but is not helpful - a bit 'its your own fault'. Friend is getting some hospital tests done... is scared.

That is a terrible response from a GP. See another one if at all possible.

Original poster

TheDogAndDuck · 31/07/2023 09:18

Is paid for residential detox better/better success rate?

OP posts:

GardeningIdiot · 31/07/2023 10:05

Private residential detox costs a fortune. It will involve lots of group work and some one to one. There are usually very mixed reviews eg Clouds House g.co/kgs/WP3hdr

Have a look at the NHS info:

www.nhs.uk/conditions/alcohol-misuse/treatment/

Scramblelina · 31/07/2023 10:40

TheDogAndDuck · 30/07/2023 15:03

Trying to understand the options...

(And before anyone else says it - I know I didn't cause it, I know I can't cure it and I know I can't control it).

I’ve had a few family members go through residential detox and it’s definitely the best way to stop drinking. Her first step should be to ask for a referral from her GP to a local service, I know her GP is dismissive but the best way would be to research and find it yourself and then ask him for the referral. If he refuses then lodge a misconduct complaint against him, his personal prejudices should not be allowed to affect his patients.

My mother mother had to jump through various hoops to get it funded, initially a group counselling course, then a 121 counselling course and then finally she was funded for 3 months residential which was extended by another 3 months.

I would definitely recommend residential over at-home, it’s unbelievably difficult to do and that specialist support is very much needed.

I don’t know where you are in the country but this place is absolutely amazing and has a really high success rate, the highest of any that I have any personal knowledge of and it’s relatively affordable as it doesn’t have the frills of places like the priory.

https://www.mountcarmel.org.uk/

A centre of excellence for alcohol treatment | Mount Carmel

A centre of excellence for alcohol treatment. 30 years’ experience of providing treatment for men and women who are addicted to alcohol, drugs, food, gambling and exercise.

https://www.mountcarmel.org.uk/

Original poster

TheDogAndDuck · 31/07/2023 14:36

Thank you Scramblelina - looks interesting.

OP posts:

Scramblelina · 31/07/2023 14:53

Just a thought, it might be worth calling Mount Carmel and asking for their advice as to how to move forward and any referrals they can offer in your area. They are very friendly and approachable and I’m sure they would help with as much advice as possible.

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