GHB addiction
What is GHB?
GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate) is a powerful central nervous system depressant that has been used recreationally and medicinally for many years. It is used as a recreational drug because it can produce euphoric effects, such as relaxation and reduced inhibitions. It is also used medicinally as a treatment for narcolepsy and other sleep disorders.
GHB otherwise known as liquid ecstasy, liquid G or liquid X, is a depressant which has become increasingly popular for the ‘rave’ scene as it makes the user feel more sociable. In small doses, it also acts as a stimulant and an aphrodisiac which makes it a popular drug to use during sex. However, higher doses can make users lose consciousness which makes it a popular “date rape drug”.
GHB is easily to become addicted to. You quickly build a tolerance to it and need a higher dose each time. This increases the chances of both overdosing and addiction. It could also leave you susceptible to assault and could even lead to death.
What is addiction?
An individual with addiction is one who can no longer control their dependence on a substance, activity, or behaviour. It is a chronic illness that can seriously harm a person’s relationships, finances, physical and mental health.
GHB addiction can also lead to feelings of loneliness, depression, and difficulty going about daily tasks for the addicted person. It’s critical that anyone battling an addiction to GHB gets expert assistance from a professional healthcare provider.
GHB addiction
GHB addiction is a serious problem that can lead to a number of physical and psychological health issues. Long-term use of GHB can cause memory loss, confusion, depression, aggression, and even seizures. Overdoses of GHB can be deadly and require immediate medical attention.
People who are addicted to GHB may find it difficult to stop using it and may require professional help. The first step in treating GHB addiction is to get the user to stop using the drug. This can be accomplished through counselling, therapy, and support groups. Detoxification programs are also available to help the individual physically withdraw from the drug.
Take your first steps to recovery
The effects of GHB
One of the biggest issues with GHB is that it is difficult to measure how much you should be taking without knowing the concentration of the liquid. This greatly increases the chances of overdosing. A drug with similar side effects that also usually comes as a clear liquid is GBL (Gamma-butyrolactone). Addiction to GHB usually results in depression, anxiety and insomnia if you feel you don’t get a strong enough dose. Effect of GHB include:
Loss of motor control- Loss of inhibitions
- Impulsive behaviour
- Incoherent or slurred speech
- Memory loss
- Seizures
- High-risk behaviour
Once a dependence has been formed to GHB, it can be very dangerous for you to quit suddenly. This could even result in death. GHB withdrawal symptoms include:
- Increased heart rate
- Increased blood pressure
- Anxiety
- Tremors
- Sweating
- Nausea
- Vomiting
GHB addiction is a serious problem and can lead to severe health problems and even death. If you or someone you know is struggling with GHB addiction, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. Treatment programs are available at Steps Together to help individuals get sober and stay sober. With the right treatment and support, recovery from GHB addiction is possible.
Treating GHB addiction
We recognise the severity of the issue when it comes to GHB addiction, which is why we have our detox and therapy programmes to help the needs of each individual every step of the way. Our expert recovery team will help guide you whilst offering all the support you need to continue your journey to recovery.
For our residential and non-residential (outpatient) clients, we provide an eclectic blend of discrete, private, and confidential therapy programmes. This guarantees that we provide treatment and therapy programmes that are tailored to each individual, family, or group’s needs. These cover a wide range of addictions, disorders, and emotional and mental health concerns, and they include some of the best and most scientifically supported treatment modalities.
At Steps Together, we carefully blend clinical treatment, therapy, hospitality and accommodation to provide you with the perfect holistic environment, all under one roof, to help you enjoy your stay and make the most of your treatment programme and recovery.
GHB detox
The first step in addiction treatment for GHB is detoxification. Detoxing from GHB involves slowly reducing the amount of the drug in the system until the individual is no longer dependent on it. This process can be difficult and uncomfortable, so it is important to have medical supervision to ensure the safety and comfort of the individual.
Steps Together will assist you in overcoming your addiction as part of the Detox Programme. Our team of knowledgeable experts are here to help and support you at every stage of what may seem like a difficult process. Together with a thorough plan to assist you in kicking your addiction, we will offer you a safe and welcoming environment.
For a free and confidential discussion with one of our friendly treatment advisors, please call 0330 175 7031 today.
Real stories from our previous clients
“I can’t imagine to this day what it was like for my parents, a mix of relief that I had finally agreed and disbelief that this is what it had come to.”
Ben, sober since January 2019
