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Addicted to Prescription Drugs-most popular in the UK, Unit 29,68 Queen Elizabeth Ave,Hillington, Glasgow G52 4NQ, United Kingdom, Glasgow (2026)

29/06/2023

In the past substance abuse has been thought of as a principally male issue. However, over the last three decades the numbers of women addicted to substances has risen steeply and statistics now show that adolescent girls and young women aged 12-20 are more likely to underage drink, binge drink or misuse prescription drugs and stimulants than boys of the same age.

Why are so many women and girls turning to drugs?
It could be any of several reasons which have contributed to this.
Pressure on women wanting both a family and a career, quite often still being the main caregiver and housekeeper – meaning that there are just doesn’t seem to be enough hours in the day!
An unrealistic depiction in the media of the ideal body – some women are turning to drugs to help them lose weight and look a certain way.
Later in life the growing number of older women who turn to alcohol and pills to help them cope with the side effects of the menopause - fatigue, insomnia, irritability, and other changes in the body.
Plus, the ever-increasing women of all ages self-medicating with booze and drugs because of underlying mental health issues including depression and anxiety.

Other shocking and incredibly sad statistics show the numbers of women turning to drugs because of trauma and/or r**e. Studies indicate that 37% of female addicts have experienced childhood abuse, and 75% of female addicts have experienced sexual assault – 45% of these more than once. Other factors to note are -
Women tend to get addicted to substances more quickly, after taking smaller amounts.
Women are more likely to have serious physical health effects. Women’s bodies often can’t cope in the same way as men.
Women tend to experience stronger drug cravings; scientists are unsure if this is medical or the way women react to triggers, stress and anxiety.
Women are at a higher risk of relapse – even after successfully completing treatment. It is important to combat this that a strong aftercare program and support structure is implemented.

29/06/2023

Following a healthy balanced diet has been shown to significantly increase success at recovering from addiction, as it reduces cravings, improves mental health, and heals damage done by substance abuse.

Poor nutrition leads to stress and ill health and is linked to increased cravings and relapses. Drug and alcohol abuse can suppress the appetite, so addicts often don’t eat enough food or the right foods to get essential calories and nutrients. What’s more, substance abuse can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, and damage to the guts, so the body can’t absorb nutrients.

This often leads to low levels of essential vitamins, minerals, glucose, amino acids and fats, which can cause damaged vital organs, damaged nervous systems and immune systems, mental illnesses, diabetes, and inflammation. On the other hand, proper nutrition benefits every function of the body and mind.

These nutrients are especially beneficial to recovering addicts’ brain health:

Complex Carbohydrates: These help the brain produce serotonin, which reduces cravings and stabilises mood and sleep.
Amino Acids: The brain uses these to make dopamine, which also reduces cravings and mood swings.
Fatty Acids Omega 3 & 6: These decrease inflammation and help the brain work effectively.
B Vitamins and Folic Acid: The body needs these to convert carbohydrates and amino acids into serotonin and dopamine.

So what should you eat to support your recovery from addiction?

Plenty of healthy calories from complex carbohydrates like wholegrain bread and cereals, brown rice and pasta, starchy vegetables and potatoes.
Moderate protein portions from meat, fish, eggs or vegan options like tofu or lentils.
Healthy fats such as olive oil, seed oils and fish - flax, h**p and fish oils are all great for a balance of omega 3 & 6 fatty acids.
Vitamin and mineral rich foods such as leafy greens, dairy products, nuts, seeds and a variety of fresh fruit and vegetables.
Drink plenty of plain water, about 2 litres a day, and avoid lots of sugar and caffeine such as coffee and fizzy drinks.

It can take time for the appetite to return in early recovery, but it’s still important to eat regularly to avoid cravings caused by hunger or low levels of nutrients in the body. A simple diet plan with three meals per day can help you return your appetite to normal and get all the nutrition you need, and most importantly stay clean and sober.

Upon arrival at Phoenix, we tailor make an eating plan for each client around their specific needs and dietary requirements. Our in-house chef creates homemade dishes three times a day that are delicious and nutritious to support your recovery and help your body to heal and grow healthy and strong. Food plays a vital role in your recovery treatment at Phoenix, and we encourage you to take these healthy eating habits home with you to protect your sobriety for the long term.

29/06/2023

I knew I was in trouble; I was supposed to be holidaying in Europe with family and instead I was stuck in a hotel alone, drinking. I realised at that moment I needed help. I asked a family member to investigate addiction rehab centres across Europe and we researched the best options together.

There were two main things that drew me towards Phoenix over other European rehabs; firstly, they specialised in a range of addictions and treatments: alcohol, drugs and behavioural addictions and compulsive disorders. Secondly was the experience of all their staff, which is hardly surprising as they are the oldest established treatment centre in Spain and rated one of the best residential rehab centres in Europe.

Once I started speaking to centres, I was immediately struck by the difference at Phoenix Programmes and my main reason for choosing them over several other European residential rehabs is because I was spoken to directly by the lead addiction specialist from the first phone call. It felt personal, and treatment is personal. I wasn’t treated like a commodity. I felt listened to and understood from the word go.

Phoenix Programmes have a unique way of helping people in need. Their knowledge of working to help alcoholics and addicts is amazing. The way the courses are run show a level of proficiency and experience that I was happy to take full advantage of. It was easy to follow and once I had the willingness the program came easy.

The entire team is patient and helpful. I enjoyed my time at Phoenix Programmes immensely. The food was brilliant (too good sometimes ha ha) and I enjoyed the exercise and relaxation activities. I would highly recommend Phoenix Programmes to others looking for a solution to addiction and a new way of living.

29/06/2023

It is a sad fact that in separate 2019 studies it was found that 20% of Americans & 1 in 4 Brits are addicted to prescription drugs.

Medicines that initially were prescribed for legitimate reasons are now being used nonmedically and have left their users with a long-term addiction problem, often ending with severe consequences.

This has led to an increase in deaths from accidental overdoses and more admissions to treatment programs for patients addicted to prescription medication.
The most common types of addictive prescription drugs fall into the following three categories -
Painkillers – these usually come in the form of an opioid such as Codeine, Morphine, Tramadol, Fentanyl or Oxycodone (to name a few). They work by supressing the bodies reaction to pain and can give feelings of euphoria.

Sedatives – (also known as depressants) benzodiazepines such as Va**um or Xanax, non-benzodiazepine sleeping pills like Ambien or barbiturates such as Luminal & Nembutal. Sedatives are often used to treat sleep disorders and anxiety.

Stimulants – such as Dexedrine, Adderall or Ritalin, normally used to treat disorders such as ADHD. These drugs can give a feeling of exhilaration, increased energy levels and mental alertness. Stimulants are also often used as an appetite suppressant.

Abusing any of the above can lead to an addiction problem, with sometimes life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. Any form of drug abuse can have adverse medical effects; lowered or raised blood pressure, problems with the heart and other organs. Nausea, vomiting, and a lack of interest in food. Increased panic, anxiety & paranoia.
Some addicts are able to hide physical symptoms for a while but over time people closest to them will begin to see a change in behaviour, often resulting in increased secrecy and isolation on the users part.

Any prescription medication can be abused. If you are taking more than prescribed by your Doctor, taking medication prescribed for someone else or taking medication to produce a feeling of euphoria - then you could have a problem.

Or is it possible that someone you love is addicted to prescription drugs?

29/06/2023

Even before the global pandemic, mental health awareness has been a hot topic of conversation in workplaces, schools, doctors, and hospitals for some time. Finally, people are waking up to the fact that safeguarding people’s psychological and emotional health, is just as important as protecting their physical bodies.

The enforced isolation that was necessary to curb the spread of coronavirus, the stress and fear caused by months of lockdown and the panic over a potentially deadly virus has caused the numbers of those struggling with mental health conditions to rocket.

Here are some of the signs and indicators of depression and anxiety, probably the two most widely known mental health labels. These can and do affect people of both sexes, all ages and social backgrounds, and the symptoms range from mild to severe.

Depression

An estimated 264 million people suffer with depression, this includes diagnoses such as manic-depressive disorder, seasonal affective disorder, post-partum depression and bipolar disorder as well others. Depression is characterised as feelings of extreme sadness, worthlessness, or hopelessness. It causes individuals to lose interest in activities they once enjoyed and to struggle to participate in life in general. Depression can happen to anyone, at any time and a bout can last for days, weeks, or months. It has a huge impact on both a person’s physical and emotional wellbeing, which leads to difficulties in relationships, and an ability to work.

Some common symptoms of depression

01Constantly sad, anxious, or empty
02Feeling hopeless or pessimistic
03Sense of guilt and worthlessness
04Difficulty with concentration
05Loss of interest in activities
06Anger or irritability
07Low energy & constant tiredness
08Problems with sleep
09Unidentifiable health issues
10Suicidal thoughts, attempts
Anxiety Disorders

Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and stress, all come under the heading anxiety disorders, which are thought to affect around 275 million people worldwide.

Anxiety is sometimes defined as being debilitatingly worried or agitated. Some sufferers have sudden and intense peaks of fear or terror which lead to panic attacks. Others have an overall feeling of nervousness and persistent feelings of worry. Repeatedly occurring symptoms cause sufferers to withdraw from “normal” life to be able to manage their emotions, this has a devastating effect on relationships, work, and study.

Some common symptoms of anxiety disorders

01Feelings of dread and panic
02Panic attacks
03Tiring easily or fatigue
04Unsatisfying or poor sleep
05Memory or concentration issues
06Being on edge, restless or irritable
07Struggling with fear and worry
08Muscle tension and teeth grinding
09Increased sweating
10Heart palpitations
Studies have found that approx. 50% of people who suffer with one condition will also struggle with the other. It is also common for people to present with other co-occurring mental health issues, such as addiction and compulsive disorders.

If you recognise some of these symptoms in yourself or someone you love, then it is best to seek professional advice. Go to your GP and find out what help there is available in your area. You do not need to suffer alone.

29/06/2023

Published in February of this year, figures from the Home Office, revealed that cannabis and co***ne continue to be the most popular illegal drugs in the UK. Overall cannabis remains the most sought-after illicit drug, followed closely by co***ne, however the north of England has seen a rise in the popularity of amphetamines.

Some of the most used illegal drugs in the UK

Cannabis, also known as ma*****na, pot, puff, w**d plus various other slang terms, is a psychoactive drug that comes from the dried leaves and seeds of the cannabis plant. Often smoked in its leaf form or as a type of resin. It can also be ingested in food or as an extract. People use cannabis for its pleasurable high however it can impair co-ordination, short-term memory, learning, and the ability to focus.

Co***ne is a powerful stimulant extracted from the leaves of two varieties of the coca plant. It is generally snorted in its power form, though some do smoke it and it can also be injected once treated with heat. It is used to elevate mood, increase feelings of well-being, and raise energy and alertness. Dangerous side effects include a raised blood pressure and heart rate.

M**A, ecstasy or molly is a psychoactive substance largely used for recreational purposes and associated with the rave scene. Once a pill or powder has been taken orally the effects can last for anything up to six hours and include altered sensations, increased energy, hallucinations, as well as feelings of intense pleasure and understanding.

Amphetamines are psychostimulant drugs, which means they speed up the messages travelling between the brain and the body. If prescribed by a doctor they can be used to treat illnesses such as ADHD, narcolepsy, and Parkinson’s. Illegal stimulants with names such as speed or whizz usually come in powdered form and are injected, swallowed, or snorted. They can be used as a performance enhancer, and to produce feelings of euphoria.

He**in (and other opiates) is taken from the seed pod of the o***m poppy plant. Opioids are known for their pain-relieving properties. It is used as a recreational drug because of its euphoric effects. He**in is a highly addictive substance and withdrawal is often difficult and painful.

Drug addiction whether it is to illegal drugs or prescription medicine is a progressive illness that worsens over time, causing damage to an individual’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. An addict is unable to control their use of substances, leading to heartache for all involved and potentially fatal consequences.

Some common signs of Drug Addiction

Not all drugs work in the same way, some will make a person spaced out and quiet, whilst others will make an individual hyped up and full of energy. But there are some common signs and symptoms to look out for -

Mood swings - low and then suddenly high
Withdrawing from family and friends
Becoming careless about personal grooming
Loss of interest in activities, hobbies, or sports
Change in eating and sleeping patterns
Physical signs - bloodshot eyes or bloody noses
Lack of motivation, irritability, and agitation
Becoming secretive

The pandemic and the resulting lockdown have seen a rise in the numbers of people turning to or increasing their use of substances - alcohol, and both illegal and prescription medication - to help manage stress, worry and mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. Now restrictions have relaxed we are seeing an increase in seeking help for problems with addiction.

Do you have a problem with substances? Check out our Self-assessment test for Recreational Drug Misuse to see if your drug taking is out of control is out of control.

29/06/2023

Why do so many people think that cannabis is harmless?

Is ma*****na really a safe drug? Or can it be just as dangerous as many class A drugs?

Are you having problems with w**d or hash?

If you are, there’s nothing strange about it - it is definitely harmful for many people, despite the myths.

Which of these “harmless” cannabis myths have you heard?

1. Cannabis is not addictive.
About 1 in 10 people who use cannabis become physically and mentally addicted to it, or 1 in 6 if they start using ma*****na before age 18.

2. It’s impossible to overdose on w**d.
It’s easy to consume an unsafe amount. A ma*****na overdose can lead to fainting, vomiting, and psychosis.

3. Ma*****na is beneficial for your health.
There are very few recommended medical uses. The evidence indicates that cannabis may well be harmful for cancer, chronic diseases and mental illnesses.

4. Ma*****na is natural - so it’s safe.
Ma*****na has been selectively bred to over ten times its natural strength, and comes in highly concentrated forms, making it a powerful drug. And there are plenty of naturally poisonous plants!

5. Ma*****na is legalised so it’s safe.
It’s illegal in most countries, and it’s highly restricted where it’s legal. Alcohol and to***co are legal, yet they both kill millions of people every year.

The truth is that it can be a very dangerous drug, especially for young people. So what are the harms of cannabis? As well as overdoses, regular long-term use can cause:

lung disease
heart attacks and strokes
depression and anxiety
harm to unborn babies
loss of memory, concentration and IQ
psychosis and schizophrenia

Heavy ma*****na use can cause Cannabis Induced Psychosis Disorder (CIPD), which is seriously debilitating. It involves severe hallucinations or delusions, e.g. hearing imaginary voices, or believing someone is trying to kill you. Other symptoms include confused speech, thoughts and behaviour, or being totally unresponsive.

CIPD can be long-lasting or permanent even after giving up ma*****na completely. High ma*****na use in young people can also trigger schizophrenia, a psychotic mental illness. Up to half of people diagnosed with CIPD later develop schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

Cannabis users are much more at risk of psychosis if they are under 16, use more than twice a week, use stronger varieties of ma*****na, have a family history of mental illness, or suffered childhood trauma or abuse.

Recovery from Cannabis-Induced Psychosis Disorder is possible with the right support. Giving up cannabis completely can be very hard and often requires expert help like a rehab centre. Many people might also need medication to treat lasting symptoms, or further support if they’ve developed more serious mental illnesses.

Are you worried about cannabis addiction or psychosis? Whatever your problems with ma*****na, our team of drug addiction specialists, doctors and psychiatrists is well equipped to help you, with a range of expertise and treatment options to suit your needs.

You don't need to suffer alone, our drug rehab centre in Spain will support, guide and nurture you through our addiction programme and help you find freedom from cannabis.

Addicted to Prescription Drugs-most popular in the UK

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