Drug Addiction Treatment

What is Drug Addiction?

Drug abuse is the overuse or misuse of drugs for non-medical purposes. These can be illegal drugs such as speed, ice and cannibis, prescription drugs such as Valium or common anti-depressants such as Xanax, Codeine, Oxycodone (Endone), Dexamphetamine, etc.

Addiction sufferers use drugs to conjure and maintain a state of altered consciousness that removes them from the reality around them. Meanwhile the debilitating effects of drug addiction slowly take over that reality and destroy the vital threads of connection linking them to loved ones and a healthy existence.

Initially, the use of drugs and other substances may be social, or triggered by a person’s reaction to a psychological or emotional stress or event. Drug abuse becomes an addiction when the user develops a dependence on them, despite the negative physical, mental and social repercussions they bring. The use of drugs to alleviate unwanted emotions is secondary to finding and understanding the underlying root cause of these emotions. 

Recreational drugs are often used as a coping mechanism to help counteract boredom, loneliness, relationship problems, low self-esteem or something more deep-seated such as anxiety or depression. But as these drugs have such serious negative effects of their own, they often compound the problems they are supposed to alleviate.

Ongoing abuse of drugs leads to a physical and psychological dependence that causes changes in the brain’s reward system to occur – resulting in cravings, overuse, withdrawals, and sometimes overdose or death. Drug addiction is a vicious cycle that’s incredible hard to break without help. 

There are three main kinds of drugs, each of which causes different physical and psychological repercussions:

Depressants

Heroin, cannabis, alcohol and other depressants slow your breathing and heart rate down and in small quantities can make you feel happy and relaxed.

But while they provide a short-term sense of pleasure, they also bring on feelings of anxiety or depression in some people and regular long-term use can negatively affect your mental health, making it hard or impossible to cope with everyday life situations.

Stimulants

Speed, ice, cocaine, ecstasy and other stimulants increase your heart rate, body temperature and blood pressure and give you a temporary ‘buzz’ which makes you feel more confident, motivated and energetic.

However, they can also have a number of side effects including stomach cramps, headaches, dizziness and feelings of anxiety, paranoia and/or aggression.

Hallucinogens

LSD, ketamine, magic mushrooms and other hallucinogens cause you to hear and see things that aren’t really there, or amplify what the five senses are taking in.

As a result of hallucinogens, many experience unpleasant changes to their reality which can cause anxiety, depression, paranoia and psychosis in those susceptible to mental health problems.

What are the causes of Drug Addiction?

There can be a variety of reasons for drug addiction including having an addictive personality, which is a predisposition to developing addictions. You could also have a parent who is an addict or have been exposed to drug addiction or traumatic experiences from an early age. 

Drug addiction might also result from experiencing a severe physical trauma or injury or a severe psychological trauma such as the loss of a loved one. If you suffer from high stress levels or have a mental health condition such as anxiety or depression, you could also be more likely to become addicted to drugs. The possibilities are many, but the common denominator is that if you turn to drugs to cope with whatever you think is wrong with your life, the cure often turns out to be much worse than the cause.

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What are the symptoms of Drug Addiction?

If you think you or someone you know might be suffering from drug addiction or drug abuse, some of the signs to look for include:

There are different symptoms of drug dependencies. Learn more about how you can be treated with drug addiction by calling us now on the number above.

What is the treatment for Drug Addiction?

Drug dependence is an issue that touches many of our lives in one way or another. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, based on a 2019 National Drug Strategy Household Survey (NDSHS), around 9 million Australians aged 14 and over had used drugs illegally at some point in their lives (including using pharmaceuticals for purposes other than medicine), and 3.4 million had used drugs illegally in the previous year. 

Dealing with addiction starts with admitting that it has become a major problem. Once you recognise this, the drug addiction treatment will depend on the severity of your addiction.

If you’re only an occasional recreational drug user but think drugs may be having too much of an influence in your life, there are steps you can take to moderate your drug use including:

  • Don’t use drugs when you are feeling anxious or sad
  • Avoid keeping drugs in the house
  • Spend more time with friends who don’t use drugs
  • Remove yourself from situations where you know drug use will be involved
  • Try other ways to alleviate feelings of stress or anxiety such as exercise or meditation
  • Set yourself personal goals for cutting back and reward yourself for sticking to them.

If your addiction is more advanced, drug rehabilitation may be the only way to deal with it. This can take the form of community-based rehabilitation programs or residential drug rehabilitation services where you stay in a clinic or retreat while being treated.

Rehabilitation often involves detoxification to remove the drugs from your system and then therapy to assist you in changing your behaviour.

Drug Rehabilitation Services at Palladium Private

If you’re looking for a holistic drug rehabilitation approach, Palladium Private is different from other drug rehabilitation facilities because we teach a reality-based mindset technique which is based on CBT, ACT and Gestalt Therapy. 

This is an educational program delivered in a retreat environment that focuses on holistic healing of the mind, body and interpersonal connections. Our detox solution has four major components:

1) If, during your pre-program assessment you are deemed to require a 4-day detox/withdrawal program, then your Palladium program will begin with a GP appointment to review medication(s) and undertake required blood or urine tests to identify areas that need addressing and monitoring.

2) A chaperone will stay with you for three nights to make sure you feel safe and supported. This can be extended for the entire program, but most guests usually find they are feeling better after their third day. We do have guests that have requested a chaperone for the majority of their stay and this can be arranged.

3) A highly nutritious diet is provided to give the body the essential components it needs to fuel the mechanics of detoxification. This is combined with gentle exercise and massage to assist in moving toxins out of the body.

4) We have a multitude of therapies to choose from for the initial physical changes, but long term permanent change is always facilitated in conjunction with the psychological therapies we select for each client.

We can help you overcome a variety of challenges

Our personally tailored, holistic and integrative programs are designed to empower you to deal with
issues in your life including:

THE EARLY DAYS WITHOUT DRUGS

CRAVINGS AND INTENSE EMOTIONS

TRIGGERS LEADING TO RELAPSE

REDISCOVERING TRUE CONNECTION IN LIFE

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Drug Addiction FAQs

Drug addiction or abuse is the ongoing overuse or misuse of drugs for non-medical purposes, despite severely negative life impacts. This can be addiction to illegal drugs such as cocaine, methamphetamies and cannabis, or prescription drugs such as Valium or anti-depressants such as Xanax, Codeine, Oxycodone (Endone), or Dexamphetamine.

Recreational drugs are often used as a coping mechanism to help counteract boredom, loneliness, relationship problems, low self-esteem or something more deep-seated such as anxiety or depression.

Ongoing abuse of drugs leads to a physical and psychological dependence that causes changes in the brain’s reward system, resulting in cravings, withdrawals, and sometimes overdose or death. Drug addiction is a vicious cycle that’s incredibly hard to break without professional help

Addiction is a complex issue, and it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional or addiction specialist for a proper assessment, but if you’re concerned, here are some common symptoms to be aware of:

  1. Strong cravings or urges to use drugs
  2. Difficulty controlling or stopping drug use
  3. Neglecting responsibilities or experiencing problems at work, school, or home due to drug use
  4. Continued drug use despite negative consequences e.g., health problems, relationship issues, legal troubles
  5. Developing a tolerance and needing larger amounts of the drug to achieve the desired effect
  6. Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop or reduce drug use
  7. Spending significant time, energy, and money obtaining drugs or recovering from their effects
  8. Losing interest in previously enjoyed activities and hobbies
  9. Changes in behaviour include secrecy, lying, or engaging in risky activities to obtain drugs
  10. Physical and psychological deterioration, including weight loss, changes in appearance, and mood swings

If you are concerned about your drug use, it is essential to seek professional help. A healthcare professional or addiction specialist can conduct an assessment, provide a diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Remember, reaching out for help is a courageous step towards long-term recovery.

Drug addiction is a complex condition, and while it may not be completely ‘curable’ in the sense that it will never reoccur, it is highly treatable, and recovery is possible.

Addiction is a chronic illness that requires ongoing management, similar to other chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension. This is why seeking professional support and treatment is so vital for recovery.

Treatment approaches for drug addiction focus on helping you:

  • Stop or reduce drug use over time
  • Manage your cravings
  • Address underlying psychological or emotional issues that might lead you to depend on drugs
  • Address other factors that might lead you to depend on drugs as a coping mechanism, such as stress in other areas of your life
  • Develop healthy coping mechanisms

Treatment options may include a combination of therapies such as behavioural counselling, medication-assisted treatment, support groups, and residential or outpatient programs.

Recovery from addiction is a journey that varies for each individual. Some people may achieve long-term abstinence and maintain a drug-free lifestyle, while others may need ongoing support to manage their addiction and prevent relapse for a significant chunk of their life.

It’s important to note that relapse is a common part of the recovery process for many who are trying to manage drug addiction.It does not mean that treatment has failed but should be viewed as an opportunity to reassess the treatment plan, identify triggers or underlying issues, and make adjustments to continue the path to recovery.

Drug addiction is typically treated through a combination of approaches tailored to your needs and experiences. Treatment plans may vary based on the type of drug use, addiction severity, co-occurring mental health disorders, and personal circumstances.

There is no perfect ‘one-size-fits-all’ treatment for drug addiction, but some common components of a treatment program may include:

  1. Detoxification (Detox): This is the first step in treatment and involves the process of clearing the drugs from the body while managing withdrawal symptoms. Detoxification is often done under medical supervision to ensure safety and comfort.
  2. Behavioural Therapies: Behavioural therapies address the psychological and emotional aspects of addiction. These therapies help you understand the underlying causes of addiction, develop coping strategies, and modify destructive patterns of thinking and behaviour. Behavioural therapies include cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), contingency management, motivational interviewing, and family therapy.
  3. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Certain medications can help manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and prevent relapse. Medications are often combined with behavioural therapies for optimal results.
  4. Dual Diagnosis Treatment: Many individuals with addiction also have co-occurring mental health disorders. Integrated treatment for addiction and mental health conditions is essential for successful recovery. This may involve medication, therapy, or a combination of both.
  5. Aftercare and Relapse Prevention: Recovery is an ongoing process, and aftercare is crucial for maintaining sobriety. Aftercare plans may include ongoing therapy, support group attendance, sober living arrangements, and strategies to prevent relapse.

It’s important to note that treatment plans should be individualised and may require adjustments based on the person’s progress and changing needs.

Seeking professional help from addiction specialists is crucial to receive personalised treatment and professional support throughout the recovery process, especially when undertaking detoxification or medication-assisted treatment.

Supporting someone experiencing drug addiction can be challenging and distressing, especially if they deny their problem or do not want to address your concerns.

Drug addicts may act out in harmful ways, especially when confronted about their addiction. They may also lie or manipulate in an attempt to cover their addiction and related behaviours.

Showing someone experiencing a drug addiction that you care about and want to support can significantly aid their journey to recovery. While not always easy, you can demonstrate this in a few ways, including:

  1. Educate Yourself: Learn about drug addiction, its effects, and available treatment options. Understanding the nature of addiction can help you provide informed support.
  2. Express Concern and Empathy: Approach the person empathetically and express your concern for their well-being. Let them know that you care about them and are there to support them.
  3. Avoid Judgment and Blame: It’s important to approach the person without judgment or blame. Addiction is a complex issue, and blaming or shaming the individual may push them away and hinder their willingness to seek help.
  4. Be Firm on Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries to protect your well-being. Communicate what you are willing and not willing to tolerate regarding the person’s drug use, behaviour, or impact on your relationship.
  5. Encourage Professional Help: Encourage the person to seek professional help from addiction specialists, counsellors, or healthcare providers. Offer to help them find and attend suitable treatment programs, support groups or help to make appointments.
  6. Be Mindful of Enabling Behaviors: While support is essential, it’s important to avoid enabling the person’s addictive behaviour. This means not covering up their mistakes, providing financial support for drugs, or making excuses for their actions.
  7. Seek Support for Yourself: Supporting someone with an addiction can affect your well-being. It’s important to seek support for yourself through therapy, support groups, or counselling.
  8. Encourage a Comprehensive Treatment Approach: Recovery from addiction often requires a comprehensive approach. Encourage the person to consider a combination of therapies, such as counselling, medication-assisted treatment, and support groups.

Remember: The decision to seek treatment and overcome addiction lies with the individual.

While you can offer support, respecting their autonomy and readiness for change is important. If the person is unwilling to accept help, setting boundaries for your well-being may be necessary while expressing your concern and willingness to support them when they are ready.

Rehabilitation, commonly referred to as rehab, can play a vital role in helping individuals overcome drug addiction.

Here’s a look at some ways rehab can help drug addicts:

  1. Safe Detoxification: Rehab facilities provide a supervised and structured environment for detox. Medically assisted detox can help manage withdrawal symptoms and ensure your safety during this critical phase.
  2. Structure and Routine: In a rehab setting, individuals follow a structured daily schedule that includes therapy sessions, support groups, physical activities, and various therapeutic interventions. This structured routine helps you to develop a sense of stability, purpose, and accountability.
  3. Professional Assessment and Treatment Planning: Rehab facilities thoroughly assess your physical, psychological, and social needs. Based on the assessment, a personalised treatment plan is created to address your specific challenges and goals.
  4. Behavioral Therapies: Rehab programs offer various evidence-based behavioural therapies, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and contingency management. These therapies help you to identify and change unhealthy patterns of thinking and behaviour, develop coping skills, and address underlying issues contributing to your addiction.
  5. Individual and Group Therapy: One-on-one counselling sessions help you to work closely with a therapist to explore your unique challenges, set goals, and develop strategies for recovery. Group therapy sessions connect you with peers facing similar struggles, share experiences, gain support, and learn from one another.
  6. Peer Support and Community: Rehab provides an environment where you can connect with others who understand your struggles and share a common goal of recovery. Peer support and the sense of community fostered in rehab can be a valuable sources of encouragement, motivation, and accountability.
  7. Holistic Therapies and Self-Care: Self-care practices are vital to recovery and treatment. It’s not uncommon for a drug addiction to impact daily functioning, including eating and sleeping. Self-care practices encourage you to re-engage in looking after yourself through exercise and nutritional meals. Holistic treatments take this one step further with therapies such as massage.
  8. Aftercare Planning: A comprehensive rehab program includes planning to transition from rehab back to the community. This may involve developing an aftercare plan that includes ongoing therapy, support group participation, outpatient treatment, sober living arrangements, and relapse prevention strategies.

Rehabilitation can provide a structured and supportive environment conducive to recovery. It offers a range of therapeutic interventions, counselling, and support services to address addiction’s physical, emotional, and psychological aspects.

By combining various approaches, rehab programs significantly help you develop the skills and support network necessary for lasting recovery.

According to the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care, there were 1,865 drug-induced deaths in Australia in 2019. Around 164,000 Australians sought treatment for their drug use, with the most common substances prompting treatment being alcohol, amphetamines, and cannabis.

Drug addiction is more common than many people think, and there are many ways to seek support and professional help if you are concerned about your drug use. Seeking out these resources is a significant step towards addressing these concerns and managing your health.

Here are a few options that may help:

  1. Healthcare Providers: Start by consulting with your GP or a healthcare professional. They can provide an initial assessment, offer medical guidance, and refer you to specialised addiction treatment services.
  2. Addiction Specialists: Addiction specialists, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or counsellors, have expertise in treating substance use disorders. They can provide comprehensive assessments, therapy, and guidance throughout the recovery process.
  3. Support Groups: Support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can provide a supportive community of individuals who have experienced or are experiencing addiction. These groups offer peer support, encouragement, and a structured program for recovery. Meetings are typically free and held in various locations.
  4. Online Resources: Numerous online resources and websites provide information about drug addiction, treatment options, and support. These resources can help you understand addiction better and connect you with relevant services and treatment facilities.
  5. Mental health retreats: A mental health retreat offers you community support, a dedicated team of professionals, and the time and space to get the help you need. They’re a great way to explore various treatment options and uncover the ones that work best for you while working towards a sense of overall health. Our residential retreat program combines psychological, physical, educational and social strategies with a focus on nutritional elements to help you combat and eradicate the root cause of your condition.

Remember that seeking help is an essential step in the recovery process.

If you need help figuring out where to start, consider talking to a trusted individual, such as a friend or family member, who may be able to assist you in finding appropriate resources.

Our dedicated team is on hand to talk you through these options and explore how Palladium Private might work for you and your circumstances.

To get in touch, call 1300 573 095 to speak confidentially to one of our Admissions Consultants.

As a residential drug rehab, Palladium Private understands the complex nature of drug dependence and offers a holistic approach to address not just the symptoms, but the underlying causes of addiction. Our program, refined over two decades, focuses on creating long-term, sustainable change. 

We provide a serene and supportive drug addiction retreat, crucial for the recovery journey. Our team comprises registered professionals experienced in holistic drug rehabilitation, ensuring that you receive comprehensive care tailored to your individual needs.

The treatment for drug dependence at Palladium Private will be a personalised journey, typically ranging from two to twelve weeks. Whether you’re seeking a residential drug rehab for you or for a loved one, our program integrates psychological, physical and educational strategies, along with nutritional guidance to support your recovery. 

Key components include medically-supported detox, one-on-one therapy, group activities for social skills development and an array of therapies like psychiatry and acupuncture. We focus on eradicating the root cause of your dependence, helping you develop new, healthy coping mechanisms and thought patterns to replace the dependency on substances.

Determining if our program is suitable for you involves reflecting on your readiness to engage in a holistic and immersive treatment approach. Our methods are designed for those committed to holistic drug rehabilitation and making significant life changes. The depth and intensity of our treatment require a level of commitment that matches our dedication to your recovery.

Feel free to contact us and speak to our admissions team, who can provide detailed consultations to help you understand how our program can be tailored to meet your specific needs in combating drug dependence.

While specialising in drug dependence, we at Palladium Private also offer treatments for a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, alcohol dependence as well as PTSD and C-PTSD. Our holistic approach is adaptable to treat these conditions, ensuring a comprehensive strategy for various mental and emotional health challenges. Our focus on the underlying causes rather than just symptoms ensures effective treatment for a broad spectrum of mental health issues.