Our Services / Complex Mental Health Recovery Services
Alcohol Detoxification Programme
This programme has been specifically developed to help people who use alcohol in order to manage their lives.
Aims of the Programme
- To minimize the distressing physical and emotional symptoms of withdrawing from alcohol consumption by prescribing appropriate medication, while guarding against damage to the body.
- To rebuild self-esteem, self-confidence and the ability to socialise.
- To increase an individual’s knowledge of the effects of alcohol on their physical and mental health.
- To build a thoughtful approach to underlying issues including stress management, relaxation and physical fitness.
- To consider personal factors underpinning the problem, and begin learning alternative, more positive strategies in managing the difficulties.
Service Description
- The programme last for 10 days, and begins with an assessment of the alcohol problem and the individual’s physical and mental health.
- Medication is prescribed to alleviate symptoms and to protect the body from alcohol related damage. Blood tests are performed to ascertain which, if any, body systems have already been damaged by alcohol use.
- When the individual is physically and mentally strong enough to do so, they attend agreed therapeutic, including groups and one-to-one, programmes, where they are encouraged to identify and think about their difficulties, and try out techniques which may help overcome these difficulties. Nursing staff undertake individual cognitively based sessions, where, for example, negative thought patterns are identified and worked with.
- An aftercare programme is discussed and planned in conjunction with various counselling and rehabilitation services.
- Occupational therapy, social work and physiotherapy assessments are carried out as required.
Treatment Philosophy
The service is provided in a relaxing and supportive environment where modern, clinical, professional therapies take place in a setting where human relationships are seen as the central element in recovery from alcohol misuse and mental health concerns.
Who will benefit from our service?
Patients suitable for these programmes are physically dependent on alcohol, and usually have additional problems, for example:
- Poor emotional and community supports.
- Previous withdrawal fits.
- Significant physical health problems.
- Previous severe withdrawals.
- Any other similar conditions which make detoxification within the community inappropriate.
Further information/contact us
For more detailed information on this service and/or to arrange a visit or make a referral please contact:
Maggie Scott
Clinical Service Manager
01904 412551 ext 2915
or
Debbie Swift
Medical PA (Complex Mental Health Recovery Services/Specialist Older People’s Service)
01904 412551 ext 2310
dswift@ theretreatyork.org.uk
