A rehab clinic in Bexley

A guide to drug and alcohol rehab in Bexley

Substance abuse and addiction recovery is often a confusing and trying time for those trying to get support. It is not easy to figure out which rehab facility is the one for you, especially as there are various options for addiction treatment in Bexley. Knowing your best options within Bexley is the first step on your journey back to good health, so we have created a rehab guide to drug addiction and alcohol addiction to help you decide.

What is rehab?

If you are struggling with any addiction, such as alcohol addiction (alcoholism), drug addiction or gambling, then rehabilitation is a programme of detox and holistic therapy where you can safely overcome your substance abuse. Rehab allows for a secure and safe environment with many specialists to help you through your journey to sobriety, drawing on not only their qualifications but their own experiences. Group therapy and private therapy allow for open communication and support. You can expect to receive help from various people on your journey to sobriety, ranging from medical professionals, therapists and even your peers.

 

A man and woman talking to a counsellor

Aftercare programmes are also an important part of rehab. Allowing constant support and help even after completed treatment is also crucial. We understand this and give automatic access to our Alumni community, but each clinic has its advantages.

Is rehab free?

Free rehab is mainly accessed through self-referral and funded by the NHS. Generally, the treatments are made up of group counselling, detox programmes and outpatient care. Various charities, such as Turning Point, also contribute to helping those with substance dependency. These charities have a limited number of beds for residential care.

Free addiction treatment services in Bexley

We understand that being able to find substantial support in London is crucial, and so we have identified the free addiction treatment services within Bexley:

AA meeting Bexleyheath

Address: Roberts Hall, Christchurch, Bexleyheath, The Broadway DA6 7BT
Contact number: 020 8301 5966
Web Address: https://www.christchurchbexleyheath.org.uk/

NA Meeting Bexleyheath

Address: St Thomas Moore Church, 420a Long Lane. DA7 5JW
Contact number: 020 8303 2189
Web Address: https://www.st-thomasmorebostallpark.org.uk/

The downside to free services

Despite the fact substance abuse and addiction are at a record high, government funding in the NHS has also been reduced. Even though there are free services in Bexley, unfortunately, they are not fast enough in those with extreme cases of addiction. Low funding also means there are a limited amount of residential (inpatient) spaces, which leaves outpatient treatment as the only viable option. Free treatment can take weeks to complete and unfortunately risk not only you or your loved one’s physical health but mental health as well.

On the other hand, private treatment can offer prompt care and benefits, such as full-board lodging, aftercare community projects and even specialised programmes with the clinic you choose.

Types of addiction treatment and rehab programmes in Bexley

Each type of addiction treatment and rehab programme has its benefits; some are more suited to those with limited disposable income while others are of a higher standard. Treatment comes as two options: outpatient (day) treatment, and inpatient (residential) rehab.

Outpatient addiction treatment (day rehab)

Outpatient Addiction Treatment or Day Rehab is where you receive treatment via scheduled treatment sessions. This allows you to stay at home during your battle with addiction.

Pros of outpatient treatment
  • Flexibility – especially for those with children
  • Remaining at home- regular routine
  • Low-costing
Cons of outpatient treatment
  • Not ideal for those with severe addiction
  • You may be referred to a clinic far from home
  • Easily affected by life distractions
  • Longer to complete
  • Safe space to stay during detox not guaranteed
  • Dedicated therapist not guaranteed
  • Unable to share the experience with like-minded residents

Inpatient addiction treatment

Inpatient addiction treatment or residential rehab is where you stay within the rehabilitation premises during your treatment. This allows for continued care throughout your journey to recovery and much-needed stability. Private rehab facilities break you out of your normal routine in a controlled, yet safe and comfortable environment. The need to reflect on all your options and focus your attention on your recovery is crucial, which residential rehab can help you accomplish.

How does residential (inpatient) rehab work?

Understanding which residential rehab is right for you can be a confusing experience. At UKAT, we have incredible teams of medical support to help with your personal needs throughout your journey to sobriety.

Admissions

Free addiction treatment admissions are available to anyone in need. However, it can be a long process. You will need to request a referral to a specialist from your GP by booking an assessment of your current situation. The approval process can take up to a few weeks, leaving anyone with an addiction in danger of falling ill or falling deeper into addiction.

Private treatment, on the other hand, can admit you into treatment the moment you make a phone call. You will even have an on-suite facility ready and waiting for you within the first 24 hours. You will be greeted by a licensed psychiatrist on arrival, who will be prepared to answer any questions you may have and to help find the best treatment options for you.

Although every company has its own rules, here is an overall guide to what you should pack for treatment.

Items you might like to bring:

  • Toiletries
  • Nightwear
  • Exercise gear
  • Comfortable clothes
  • Outdoor clothes
  • Medication
  • Umbrella
  • Pictures
  • Mobile phone
  • iPod or radio
  • Laptop

To increase your chances of recovery, you may be advised to limit your laptop and mobile phone use during the duration of your stay.

The following items are not allowed:

  • Illicit alcohol/ drugs
  • Any form of weapon or dangerous object
  • Sharp objects such as knives, scissors, needles, and razor blades
  • Non-prescribed medication
  • Aerosols or perfume
  • Mouthwash with alcohol contents
Medical detox

Detoxification is the process of allowing your body to rid itself of any harmful substances that you may have ingested. Alcohol detox and drug detox are standard practices that take place in a controlled and secure environment. If there are high levels of a harmful substance in your bloodstream, such as alcohol, then medication can be used to slowly reduce the levels of toxins in the bloodstream, reducing any discomfort.
Our medical professionals may recommend detox medication in any case they deem severe. This helps reduce any withdrawal symptoms you may experience, as we know that any sudden decrease of an addictive substance can cause a significant shock to the body. We strive to make you as comfortable as possible.

Rehab programme

There are various approaches to tackling addiction within a rehab programme. It is important you choose a good quality alcohol or drug rehab programme within your Bexley area that caters to your needs. What is right for you? Some people benefit more from peer interaction in group therapy; others prefer one-to-one therapy, improving using the help of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Some achieve more through a 12-step programme; others prefer a non-12 step programme.

Whichever is the right choice for you, advice from a therapist will guide you in the right direction to by assessing your needs and assigning the most suitable programme for you.

Choosing the right programme

The right programme is imperative in helping you through your recovery. A competent rehab should not only consist of a mix of both private and group therapies but should also encompass an inclusive atmosphere in regards to each person’s personal and religious beliefs.

A good rehab programme should also help those in battling psychological obstacles through the use of dual-diagnosis.

It is important not to forget to look into a rehab’s accreditation based on the Care Quality Commission’s ratings on how safe, effective, caring, responsive, and well-led the clinic is. These ratings can be found on the clinic’s website and give you much-needed insight into just how right a facility is for you.

Family support programmes

Addiction, whether it is alcoholism, drug abuse or other coercion, can have long-lasting effects on the people closest to them. It is just as important that the families and loved ones of the individuals battling through addiction receive substantial care. A supportive centre will help both those suffering from addiction and their loved ones by providing family workshops and sessions to increase communication.

How long does rehab last?

Rehab programmes can last anywhere between four to twelve weeks, although there is no exact time frame applied to everyone. Our UKAT admissions team have recognised the correlation between the duration of one’s stay to their success rate. The longer a person is treated at our centre, the more likely they are to remain successful with their recovery even after returning home.
We advise booking a treatment programme eight weeks or longer to enable the best results, allowing you to form friendships and adjust to a new life without external influences.

The benefits of residential rehab

  • Removing any temptations and life distractions
  • On-hand medical specialists and support staff
  • Opportunity to meet and share experiences with like-minded residents
  • Luxurious/comfortable grounds to stay in during your detox
  • Schedule and meals set up for you, allowing time to focus on recovery
  • Immersive aftercare programme

What happens after rehab?

A big part of recovery is what happens after rebab. It can be discouraging leaving the comfort of the treatment centre. However, the support won’t stop there.

Aftercare programmes

Aftercare is something that most residential rehabs provide. This can range from ongoing group therapy, private therapy or support groups.

At UKAT, we offer one-year free group therapy aftercare to all its residents who feel they could benefit from it after their treatment. UKAT clients will also have access to our Alumni community, allowing people going through recovery to interact through planned events and activities. These gatherings enable fuel those lifelong connections made after rehabilitation treatment.

Support groups

Support groups are also available as a form of aftercare. They are confidential groups within your local Bexley area, which anyone may attend during treatment or after treatment. They are free of charge and offer communication with people who can support throughout the rest of your journey.

Examples of these groups are as follows; Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), Cocaine Anonymous (CA) and SMART Recovery.

Long term recovery from addiction

The road to recovery can be challenging, so it will take time and patience to adjust to a new routine. There may be temptations and situations that trigger cravings, especially for those early into their recovery. But together we can help you overcome any setbacks, so you remain on the road to recovery.

Frequently asked questions

Are rehabs open in London during the Coronavirus outbreak?
Rehabilitation centres are operating during the Coronavirus outbreak, as healthcare facilities are essential businesses. This includes private rehab clinics in London, provided they follow the safety regulations implemented by the government.

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Does free alcohol rehab in London exist?
There are a number of free clinics in London which can help you with alcohol or drug abuse. However, there are no inpatient options. Rehabilitation centres are not free, so for residential rehab your best option is to opt for private treatment.

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How do I pay for rehab?
A deposit will be accepted at the beginning of the process and full payment taken a few days later, once you have started your programme.

Many private rehabilitation companies, including UKAT, accept BUPA insurance. However, be sure to check with your insurance company that your claim is covered.

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Can I get funding through the NHS?
Although funding through the NHS is available, it can be a lengthy and emotional process and many applications are turned down.

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Can you force someone to go to rehab?
You cannot force someone to go into rehab; it must be their choice. However, you can organise an intervention if you are worried about someone. This involves sitting and talking to your loved one with the help of a professional, in the hope they will listen and follow your advice.

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Which drug addictions can be treated in rehab?
Addictions to any of the following drugs can be treated in a rehabilitation clinic: cocaine rehab, crack cocaine rehab, heroin rehab, cannabis rehab, ecstasy rehab and prescription drugs rehab, including benzodiazepines rehab and opiates rehab.

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How long should I go to rehab for?
The recommended duration of rehab depends on the severity of your addiction and you will be advised by a professional during your admissions process.

The longer the length of stay in rehab the higher the success rate for staying sober, as you spend more quality time in therapy and in a sober environment, away from temptation.

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Is rehab confidential?
If you seek treatment through the NHS, the referral will sit on your medical records. However, employers cannot access these records unless under specific circumstances. So, there is a limited chance of them finding out.

Private rehabilitation is completely confidential and does not sit on your medical records.

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Can I visit a loved one during rehab?
You can visit your loved one for an hour every Sunday at our private centres. However, to prevent the spread of Covid-19 you will not be permitted to visit loved ones during the lockdown.

Family support groups take place every week at each of our centres and anyone who has a close connection to the patient can join. Not all rehabilitation centres offer this option, so this needs to be checked on their website.

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