With the increased restrictions just announced by the Prime Minister and the rise in virus cases, we are likely to see more problems with people’s mental health, an increase in loneliness and the continuation of the recognised rise in alcoholism during the pandemic that has occurred since the pandemic began. The demand for alcohol services is ever more apparent, yet the funding for them is still at an all time low. Only yesterday someone informed me that there would be a wait for several more months before they could access any state funded help – and this was someone who had been passed by the authorities as needing it and had been offered it. It is a growing problem.
Treatment can be expensive
There are places available in private alcohol rehab centres and immediate help is usually accessible. However, this is not cheap. Prices are usually around £2000 – £2500 per week with a minimum commitment of around £5000 necessary. Not everyone can afford this outlay. However, as problems associated with alcohol and the associated anxiety and depression can be life threatening, it can be a case of … can you afford not to find the funding somehow?
Finding a new way of life
Private alcohol rehab could be the best thing you ever spend your hard earned money on. It is life changing. And it is not just about stopping drinking but more about finding a new way of life in which you do not need alcohol to get through each day. A good rehab will take a look at your whole life experience, get to know you as a person and what it is that leads you to drink in the way you do. Is it anxiety? Is it depression? Or is it lack of confidence and / or self esteem? Is it due to some past trauma?
In rehab you will get a natural break from the drinking. Getting out of the environment that triggers your drinking and safely detoxing. Probably on medication for a short while to ameliorate the withdrawal symptoms (sweating, shaking, feeling nauseous, for example). Then the hard work will begin on yourself. How much has drinking cost you? How has it affected your life and the life of those you love? Is your life chaotic and unmanageable? You will see the negative consequences of drinking and begin to realise the positive benefits of being sober. You can be happy, have fun, and have a fulfilled and enjoyable life without alcohol.
Living one day at a time
You will probably be introduced to the 12 Step Programme as taught by Alcoholics Anonymous. Included in this is dealing with all your past anger and resentments. Also recognising your character defects that may not be helping you to live the life you want as the person you want to be. You will be taught how to live each day ‘one day at a time’ feeling good about life. That is not to say that you won’t face difficult situations nor to say that you cannot plan things for the future. It just helps us to live our lives guilt free, waking up to each new day without guilt and resentment from the day before.