This article is aimed to inform you about and present to you the possible dangers of GHB addiction and dependence to GBL. It will also help you to decide for yourself if you or a loved one have a problem that requires professional help, guidance or treatment.

GHB (γ-Hydroxybutyric acid or 4-hydroxybutanoic acid) is a known aphrodisiac that lowers inhibitions and can encourage risky sexual behaviours. There is also a much darker side to this drug – it has been linked to many sexual offences, including rape. GBL (γ-Butyrolactone) is converted to GHB quickly after consumption by the body.

GHB and GBL are easily obtained but are illegal Class C controlled drugs in the UK under the Substance Misuse Act 1971. We hope that you will find this page informative, and if you do have a problem or know someone who does, know that we are here to help in any way that we can.

Recovery from addiction to GHB is entirely possible with the correct help and professional treatment. What you and your family may need right now is support and access to the best treatments and help available completely without judgement. It is possible to access these services in the UK.

What Do GHB and GBL Look Like?

GHB in its original form is a white crystalline powder; however, it is rarely sold in this form. It is usually mixed with water to produce a clear, odourless, tasteless liquid and is sold in small plastic or glass bottles in clubs or on the street.

GHB can be easily manufactured from GBL; the human body actually metabolises GBL into GHB. Typically, both are sold in small plastic bottles. Sometimes they are labelled, but often come unmarked. GBL can also be sold in powder form but is rarely snorted due to the severe damage it causes to the nostrils and nasal passages.

The most common form purchased is liquid GBL or GHB, which has already been prepared for oral ingestion.

The History of GHB

GHB was originally introduced as a synthesised medication in 1960. In 1963, it was discovered by scientists as a naturally occurring chemical in the brain. Throughout most of the 1960s, it was frequently used as an anaesthetic, but this practice was abandoned by the medical fraternity due to its unpredictability and poor analgesic effects.

In the 1970s, GHB became a popular treatment for narcolepsy. This didn’t last for long though, and it was discarded as an appropriate treatment due to it euphoric effects and other unwanted side effects.

Use of GHB became most popular in the 1980s. Primarily because of its fat burning and muscle developing properties. However, due to more than 30 evidence-based cases of individuals becoming sick from it when used for this purpose, the FDA (United States Food and Drug Administration) declared the chemical unsafe in 1990. It was ordered to be removed from the stores and declared unfit for human consumption.

Following the ban enforced by the FDA, manufacturers of GHB started to change their chemical formulations to include GBL and BD (1,4-Butanediol) as it is colloquially known. It was around this time that GHB gained popularity in the ‘party scene’ and ‘chemsex scene’ for its euphoric and aphrodisiac effects.

In March 2000, the FDA officially classified it a ‘Schedule 1’ drug. GBL has never been approved for human consumption.

Can I Get Addicted to GHB?

Contrary to popular belief that GHB is not addictive and only causes a psychological addiction, the exact opposite has been scientifically proven.

GHB and GBL are very addictive, both physically and psychologically. GHB has severe and prolonged withdrawal symptoms that affect both the mind and the body. If you are taking GHB regularly, i.e. daily, or more than 3 times a week, there is a high chance of a physical dependence occurring.

Withdrawal can last anything from 10 to 14 days, and, in some cases of prolonged and heavy use, much longer. Regular use will result in a craving for more and have to increase the dosage in order to obtain the desired effect.

GHB Addiction Symptoms

Knowing the addiction signs and symptoms can be helpful in identifying if you, or a loved one, have a problem with GHB. Here is a basic list of habits, behaviours, changes in perception and thoughts which may help you discover the truth as to whether you or a loved one have an addiction or not:

• You are taking GHB not just to enhance a good time at a party or a sexual encounter, but because you feel the need to
• You are taking GHB more frequently and/or in increasingly larger amounts
• You are mixing GHB with other drugs or alcohol for a more pronounced and longer effect
• You are suffering negative consequences: to your mental, financial, physical, emotional or social health – but still cannot stop yourself from taking it
• You neglect other interests, such as hobbies or socialising with friends, in favour of getting intoxicated
• You risk-take sexually whilst under the influence, and at the time do not care if there are consequences to your actions; regularly breaking your own moral code of conduct; leading to feelings of shame, regret, remorse and guilt
• You really want to and need to stop, find that you cannot stop yourself from taking GHB
• You are unable to stop once started, often leading to a binge that can last for hours or even several
• You take GHB daily to avoid withdrawal
• You may have stopped partying and are taking the drug on your own, cut off from the rest of the world
• Your loved ones have noticed a big change in you and have expressed their concern over your behaviour or appearance
• You are increasingly neglecting family, partners and your own children in favour of taking GHB and getting high
• You neglect your work responsibilities, finances and health
• You have become unreliable and untrustworthy
• You obsess over the drug and find yourself preoccupied with obtaining it and taking it
• You are secretive and dishonest with others about your GHB use, especially those that are closest to you
• You are unable to imagine a life free of addiction to GHB
• You feel very depressed as a result of your drug taking and the negative consequences
• You may experience suicidal thoughts or think of self-harming
• You suffer from paranoia and anxiety, as a direct result of taking GHB and your secrecy and deceit
• Your “friends” circle consists mainly of other GHB users and you have pulled away from long-term friends
• You borrow money you know you cannot pay back and even steal from your loved ones in order to get money to buy GHB if it comes to it
• You may even turn to prostitution or escorting to fund your addiction
• You panic and start to feel withdrawal symptoms if you are unable to obtain usual supply
• You have increased the dose of the drug over time, as you have become tolerant to the initial sought-after effects you used to gain when you first started to use
• You are unable to see a way out of your problems and feel trapped and enslaved by GHB

What Are the Withdrawal Symptoms of GHB?

GHB produces similar withdrawal symptoms to that of a benzodiazepine withdrawal or severe alcohol withdrawal. This means that the withdrawal symptoms can be fatal if not managed correctly or medically. Withdrawal must be carefully medically managed, especially when there is evidence of a physical dependence.

You will know if you have a physical dependence to GHB if you develop withdrawal symptoms from missing your usual dose, or if over time you have had to increase the amount you take in order to gain the same desired and sought-after effects as you used to when you first began using.

This process is known as tolerance; once tolerance has developed, a professional medical withdrawal regime will be required to keep you safe throughout the detox process.

Physical withdrawal from GHB should ideally be medically managed within a specialist inpatient environment, such as a detox and rehab clinic. There, you will be carefully monitored and medically supported every step of the way whilst withdrawing from GHB to become drug-free

Attempting to self-detox or stop GHB abruptly could be fatal and is extremely dangerous. We would never recommend that you attempt this for your own safety and that you always seek medical or professional help and advice first.

Withdrawal symptoms include but are not limited to:

Body

Mind

This video describes the history of GHB and also the consequences and effects of using it. Whilst this is an American produced video, it is important to recognise that in the UK it is a Class C controlled drug and carries the same dangers and effects.

Driving Laws and GHB

Under the UK’s Drug Driving Law, it is an offence to drive whilst impaired by any drug or prescribed medication that can affect your ability to drive safely, even the following day after taking them; for as long as the effects last, regardless of how strong they are. Penalties are the same as drink driving. Be sure that you, or your loved one, are not suffering from any adverse reactions from taking GHB before attempting to drive. The same applies to operating any heavy machinery. GHB is a powerful drug that can make you feel unusually confident, sleepy and can seriously impact on your perception, reactions, judgement and decision making. It is important to remain safe and not put yourself or others at unnecessary risk whilst on this drug.

Street Names for GHB and GBL

This is important to know, so you know what it is exactly that you are taking. The UK’s police force have now been tasked with learning the slang terms for all street drugs so that they are more aware of when someone is in danger, or if a deal is happening. Commonly used street names for GHB and GBL on the street include:

GHB – ‘G’, ‘Liquid ecstasy’, ‘Liquid X’, ‘Easy Lay’, ‘Cherry Meth’, ‘Scoop’, ‘Organic Quaalude’, ‘Fantasy’, ‘Grievous bodily harm’, ‘Great Hormones at Bedtime’, ‘Gamma OH’, ‘Water’, ‘Everclear’, ‘Georgia Homeboy’, ‘Soap’

GBL – ‘Midnight blue’, ‘Blue nitro’, ‘ Alloy Cleaner’, ‘Magic Stripper’.

How Is GHB Taken?

GHB and GBL are most commonly taken orally in liquid form; the powder form is not commonly snorted, but dissolved into a solution and sold in small plastic bottles. The extent of the effects depends hugely on the dosage and the individual’s response to the drug. The solution can also be administered intravenously so that the chemical is delivered straight to the brain via the bloodstream; this is very risky and increases the chances of overdosing. There are also additional risks of blood-borne viruses being transmitted from unclean equipment or hitting the main artery which could cause huge blood loss and even death.

Swallowed orally: A small capful provides an ‘average’ dose. It can take up to an hour for the full effects to be felt. Generally, the effects start to take hold within 10-20 minutes from the moment of ingestion. The effects can last for several hours, depending on how much is taken and how your body individually metabolises it.

The Effects of GHB and GBL

GHB is a central nervous system depressant drug that produces effects similar to that of alcohol. It is most commonly used for recreational purposes and comes in the form of salts and powders, which are soluble and usually mixed with water and then taken orally.

If you or someone you love is using or abusing GHB or GBL, it is likely that you/they will experience the following effects:

Pleasant, sought-after effects

• Loss of inhibitions and you are more likely to engage in (sometimes risky) sexual behaviours
• mild euphoria (depending on dosage) similar to feeling drunk from alcohol
• relaxed feelings and calmness
• Induces feelings of sleepiness and drowsiness
• Increases your libido and acts as an aphrodisiac
• Enhanced your senses
• You can use it as a supplement to aid bodybuilding muscle mass

Undesired and unpleasant adverse effects

• A loss of control – the effects are similar to being very intoxicated with alcohol which can last for several hours
• Feeling sick and vomiting
• Confusion and disorientation
• Muscle numbness and temporary paralysis – Requires emergency medical attention
• Seizures and collapse – Requires emergency medical attention
• Psychosis, you may feel agitated and aggressive and event violent – even though normally you are very placid and easy going. Requires emergency medical attention
• GHB can affect the heart, resulting in Tachycardia,(raised heart rate or erratic heart rate) Requires emergency medical attention
• Delirium – a very unpleasant state where you will feel very confused; you may experience illusions, severe restlessness and may become incoherent – Requires emergency medical attention
• Unconsciousness – Requires emergency medical attention
• Coma – Requires emergency medical attention
• Audio and visual hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real)
• Paranoia ( convinced someone is after you or out to hurt you)
• Death from overdose – If someone is not responsive or breathing that has taken GHB, call 999 immediately!

This video shows how the body reacts whilst intoxicated with GHB/ GBL, whilst the mind is asleep through its sedative effects:

What Is GHB Used For?

Over the years GHB and GBL have become notorious in their involvement in sexual offences. Due to their solubility and tasteless and odourless presence, it is easy to spike someone’s drink without them suspecting.

More commonly, it is used as a recreational drug for intoxication, as a sleep aid or as a supplement to bodybuilding.

In small doses it can make the user feel happy, relaxed, uninhibited and content; whilst for others, it can make them feel more depressed and low. In larger doses, it has the power to anesthetise. While drugged, they will have little or no memory of events that occurred whilst they were intoxicated and under the influence.

As it has the power to sedate and paralyse, when administered in large doses, it had been linked to sexual offences. Sadly, many perpetrators get away with horrific acts of sexual violation and rape due to the victim waking up confused with very little memory of the events that occurred whilst under the influence.

GBL – The Date Rape Drug

GBL is known as a “date rape drug” due to many cases of sexual offences being cited and recorded linked to intoxication with GHB.

The drug metabolises in the body very quickly as it is also naturally occurring, and so the body and brain recognise and accept it.

It is very difficult to detect elevated levels after a certain period of time has passed. GHB is tasteless, colourless and odourless and can be added to a drink (for example in a club or pub) without the victim even realising. This is known as drink “spiking”

If an offence is committed, unless tests are carried out within 4 hours of first administration of the drug, there will always be traces of this organically occurring chemical in your or your loved one’s system. Toxicology reports need to show raised, unnatural levels for it to be linked with a death or an offence.

There is no doubt that, when sexually assaulted or raped, no one is in a fit state to recall what happened or report it to the police immediately. The victim would most likely wake up confused and disorientated and may not realise until their head has cleared as to what has actually happened. This may then be followed by shock and shame. Many cases go unreported.

Because most victims are usually in too a vulnerable state to report an attack during the short time frame needed for a positive elevated toxicology report, the perpetrator gets away with it. GHB can be expelled from the body in as little as four hours from ingestion.

It is not uncommon for the perpetrator of such an act to become addicted to the act and to the drug also. Without specialist help and a successful prosecution, they are highly likely to offend again. They not only get a high from the drug, but also from the sexual act with someone who is powerless to say no. This makes for a very dangerous and complex addiction that is a danger to society without very intensive specialist intervention. Gang rapes and assaults can and do happen as a result of GHB. If you are taking GHB regularly, you may inadvertently become involved yourself. GHB changes the way you think, feel and act and you may find yourself doing something that you later seriously regret, especially if you are taking it in excess and are suffering from an addiction to it.

If you are the victim of such a serious and horrendous crime, please go to your nearest casualty department for help and call the police as soon as you realise what has happened.

if you are or are close to, a victim of GHB sexual assault or rape, this is likely to have a devastating impact on both your lives. We recommend therapeutic help or a rape crisis centre as soon as you or they feel ready to receive the urgent help needed.

Hopefully, this would not happen to you or anyone you know, but the fact is – this drug is sold because the community seeks it. It is the simple rule of demand and supply, and we need to work our way around this devil and rid our community of any more similar occurrences.

Here are just a few examples of recent GHB-related offences that have made the news:

If you or a loved one have suffered at the hands of such a criminal offence, you do not need to suffer in silence or alone and can receive a great deal of advice, support and counselling to help you through the trauma of being violated:

• a voluntary organisation, such as Women’s Aid, Victim Support, The Survivors Trust or Survivors UK (for male victims of sexual assault)
• the free, 24-hour National Domestic Violence Helpline on 0808 2000 247
• the Rape Crisis national free phone helpline on 0808 802 9999 (12-2.30pm and 7-9.30pm every day of the year)

If you have a problem with GHB, or someone you love does, it is vital to seek help immediately. GHB can make you carry out acts that are extremely out of character and things can quickly spiral out of control. Naturally, this can lead to carrying a great deal of shame and guilt. Consequently, you could be using more of the drug to escape these very uncomfortable feelings. This will feed an addiction and make depression, unpredictable behaviours, anxiety and paranoia much, much worse.

The Difference between GHB and GBL

GBL preceded GHB and in the body, GBL is quickly metabolised into GHB. Effects-wise there are no differences and both are sold in the same liquid form.

GBL, as well as being used for recreational abuse, is also used as in the formulation of multi-purpose industrial cleaning chemicals such as cleaning solvents, stain removers and chrome polish.

Basically, either can be used for the same purpose and effects, except GHB does not need to metabolise for the effects to take place, so the effects work more quickly, albeit only by a fraction.

The Law on GHB and GBL

Both GHB and GBL are classified as Class C controlled illicit drugs under the Substance Misuse Act 1971, enforced by the law.

Possession of the drug carries a maximum sentence of 2 years imprisonment, unlimited fine or both.

Possession with intent to supply carries a maximum 14 years imprisonment sentence, unlimited fine, or both (this include being concerned in supply, conspiracy to supply and offer to supply.

It is illegal to even give to a friend or relative for free.

Production of the substance carries a maximum sentence of 14-year imprisonment, unlimited fine or both.

The Sexual Offences Act from 2003, states that it is an offence to administer GHB and GBL to an individual with the intent to overpower them and enable sexual activity. This offence, if convicted, carries up to ten years imprisonment and registration on the sexual offenders list.

What Is Chemsex and How Is GHB Involved?

Chemsex are organised parties where men have sex with other men using the drug as a chemical aphrodisiac to stimulate and increase libido, physical stamina and physical sensation. GHB is a drug that is commonly used at these parties. They are often held in someone’s own private house with limited invitations. When it comes to the UK, they are particularly common in London, but toxicologists are only just becoming more aware of them and the negative consequences.

When uninhabited, whilst under the influence of the drug, few will use precautions. The drug can even change a person’s character from a careful, precautious even, to a reckless one without any control over their actions. This is also a reason for the increased risk of sexually transmitted infections and illnesses such as Chlamydia, Herpes virus and even HIV.

Chemsex parties can be as addictive as the drug itself. It is popular with males of gay orientation in particular. We receive many calls from males who are addicted to GHB as well as sex. The two can go hand-in-hand when GHB is used.

The more you enjoy the high and relate it to another high, such as an orgasm, the more likely you are to develop an addiction to both and as a result, take bigger risks and feel powerless to stop.

UK’s GHB-Related Mortality Rates

The following graphics were released by the Imperial College of London, following studies of mortality rates caused by GHB. As you can see, the number of deaths has more than doubled from 2014 to 2015.

With the Chemsex party scene growing. These stats are likely to be even higher today.

The difficulty of proving the cause of their passing as a result of GHB is enforced also by the fact that everyone around them is usually also a user. Either too high or engaged in an activity to notice, it is often not until everyone comes down from the drug that their friend or associate’s untimely demise is realised.

A realisation of a drug-induced death where others are involved is often followed by panic before someone reports it. By the time it is realised and reported, unless the person who reports it reveals to the police the truth of their “friend’s” death, it is too late to prove in a toxicology screening.

GHB can and does cause deaths, but the statistics do not really reflect the reality as it only stays detectable at elevated levels in the body for a very short space of time. It is, for this reason, it is difficult for toxicologists to pinpoint blame on the drug as the cause of a GHB related death.

This places a big question mark over the many deaths that are likely to be as a result of overdosing from GHB but cannot be proven toxicologically. Due to the excess chemical being dispelled from the body in such a short space of time. If you do accidentally overdose, it is likely you will die unless immediate emergency help is sought by those around you.

Do you know someone who has recently passed away from a drug overdose related to this substance? It is often a wake-up call for other users to stay clear. This is why finding help fast is essential to your recovery. You may well think, “that will never happen to me, I’m too careful and know what I’m doing”. How many of the individuals that have died as a result of GHB do you think had the very same thoughts?

Can I Get Help to Stop Taking GHB?

Yes, absolutely! If you, or someone you know, are addicted to or have an abuse problem with GHB/GBL, we are here to guide you through the best treatment options to help you become permanently drug-free.

There are many options to consider and it can be very confusing if you are in crisis and in need of immediate help. Asking for help through the correct sources is the first major step in your or a loved one’s recovery.

GBL Addiction Treatment

Do you want to know about the treatment options available both on the NHS and through private rehab? If so, there are a number of options available for you to access throughout the UK.

Depending on personal preferences and the specific treatment needs of you or your loved one’s addiction, will likely dictate the type and intensity of treatment required for a full and successful recovery.

Treating any physical addiction by means of detox or withdrawal is only touching the tip of a much bigger and more serious problem.

Without a full rehabilitation treatment programme to address the psychological aspect of addiction, you may still be fighting the urge to use and may even relapse as a result. Getting clean is the easy part, staying clean requires commitment, desire and hard work.

Successful treatment of GHB Addiction should involve a detox if required, a comprehensive rehabilitation programme and an aftercare plan, to help the individual undergo the essential change in their thinking and behaviours required to stay clean and build a new future without drugs.

GHB Addiction Rehab

If you or a loved one are abusing or addicted to GHB and need help to stop, we strongly recommend that you only look for a detox and rehab clinic that is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), so that you can have complete confidence in the treatment provided and receive the safety, care and quality of treatment that you and your loved one deserve.

CQC are the Care Quality Commission, a governing body who regulate rehabs to ensure that they are run in the safest manner possible in the best interests of their patients. They ensure that there are very strict protocols being met regarding auditing, care management and care planning, medication administration and quality of service and provisions. They also ensure that the individuals working at the rehabs are qualified to deliver the treatments that they are providing to patients within their care.

GHB Detoxification

Withdrawing from GHB can be extremely distressing, even dangerous and life-threatening. This is especially true if you have been taking larger amounts or have been mixing it with other habit-forming drugs and find you are unable to stop or reduce on your own.

If you have developed a dependence to high amounts of GHB, have become addicted to alcohol or other drugs simultaneously, or also are suffering from a mental health illness, detox should only be carried out under intensive medical supervision for your own safety.

If you have a problem with GHB that is just starting to impact on your life, community services such as your local drug and alcohol community team can be very helpful, as can be your GP.

Family and loved ones matter throughout the whole process of recovery, which begins with detox. This is why, if your loved one is suffering from a GHB addiction and needs detox, you may well need help and guidance as to how best support them as much as you can.

Addiction is a chronic relapsing brain disease, as recognised by Public Health England and medical institutions around the world. A person can become dependent on GHB even though there is little evidence to support that it is physically addictive. Our experience is different, we assist many on a daily basis who have become dependent on the drug and need help. The feelings related to sexual pleasure, that the drug is generally taken to enhance, can also become a major addictive problem

Addiction is a deadly disease and requires specialist professional treatment to overcome.

If you suffer from addiction, it is not your fault. However, it is your responsibility to seek the correct professional help and put the required action into your recovery in order to get and stay well

Addiction is an illness of denial. You may think you don’t have a problem, but friends and family are more likely to paint a truthful picture if you speak to them and keep an open mind. Often, at times when consumed by addiction and fear of the truth, we are unable to see ourselves from aside, regardless of our plans, problems, and sometimes our excuses. This is why talking to your family and friends is important to discovering the severity of your problem.

The best way to overcome addiction permanently is to stop the drugs and rebuild a new life. The beginning can be very hard and challenging, which is why the process of detox and rehabilitation is provided by professional private or NHS-funded clinics. Treatment will assist in changing your maladaptive thinking and behaviours and provide you with the tools of recovery you need to recreate a new, healthier you.

GBL Addiction Medical Detox

Do you or a loved one have a dependency to GBL? If you answered with yes, then maybe you should consider seeking professional detoxification services. We advise any detox attempted, medical or otherwise, to be combined with behavioural treatment therapies for optimum results. Counselling, addiction treatment therapies, and other support services are extremely helpful in order for you to live an addiction-free life and avoid relapse.

It is important to keep an open mind to all services and help available, so that if one door closes another opens. Where there is a will, there is always a way but it may well require perseverance and determination on your part.

Private Detox and Rehab for GHB Addiction

Private rehabs offer medical detoxes that will be controlled by professionals, experienced in the latest evidence-based addiction treatment techniques. They will ensure that you remain as safe and as comfortable as possible throughout the detoxification process.

Another benefit of the private detox clinic is that they make sure you or your loved one will get treatment right away. NHS-based treatment tends to have a long waiting list, which can sometimes prove to be fatal if your addiction is severe.

Inpatient detox provides a safe and controlled environment; especially helpful if you have lost control of your drug consumption. The clinical team will make sure the severe withdrawal effects will not impact on any additional treatment you are receiving.

To ensure your safety is paramount at all times, you will be monitored closely by doctors and therapists around the clock. A detox clinic’s primary objective is for you to complete your detox safely and become drug-free, and to prepare you for the longer process of rehabilitation and recovery.

Rehabilitation and follow-up treatment (aftercare) are essential in keeping you firmly on the path to recovery, with the support of professionals and your loved ones.

What Happens in Rehab?

If you or a loved one are considering rehab as an option to recover from GHB addiction, it is natural to feel apprehensive and frightened. Rehabs are very nurturing and compassionate places. Every professional that works there has your best interests at heart and will do all they can to help you or your loved one to make a full and lasting recovery. The days are very structured, to keep you occupied and you will receive support from peers also.

Rehab is not a punishment, but a therapeutic and medical means of recovering from an addiction or abuse problem. You will also be allowed visits from family, free time to socialise with peers and all treatments provided by the rehabs we work with are very interactive to ensure that you gain the most benefit from each session. This may come as a surprise to you, but most individuals actually really enjoy their rehab experience!

Whilst in a residential rehab centre, you will also simultaneously receive help and treatment for any co-occurring mental health illnesses including depression, Anxiety Disorder, PTSD, OCD or eating disorders. This is a complete rehabilitation process which allows temperate transfer to complete abstinence and sobriety for both mind, body and spirit.

Free GHB Addiction

There are three main ways of accessing free help and treatment for GHB Addiction:

1. Christian Rehabs in the UK which are religion-specific and very strict – they are not suitable for everyone.
2. Government funding through your local Drug and Alcohol team
3. Private rehab through a referral company or institution.

Meetings for GHB Addiction

You or your loved one can access free addiction support from various self-help groups in the community. If you have an addiction problem with GHB, you can find support group meetings with the Narcotics Anonymous or Smart Recovery

Help for Families of GHB Addicts

There are other self-help associations for your loved ones and family, such as Famanon and Adfam . Anyone close to an individual with an addition will also have been gravely affected by their illness and maladaptive behaviours. It is vital that the family and loved ones find recovery in a life for themselves and also so that they may help support their loved ones on their return back home.

GHB Addiction Recovery Plan

Your individual circumstances and the severity of your addiction or abuse problem with GHB will indicate the type of treatment and intensity required for a full recovery to be made. It is vital that all bases are covered comprehensively; this is why a personalised addiction recovery plan can prove invaluable. Any GHB addiction recovery plan should take into account treatment for any difficulties you are experiencing physically, mentally, emotionally and socially. Missing out any of these vital components can make all the difference between treating your addiction in full and successfully or only partially. Our experience is that neglecting any one area, can impact on all other areas and lead to relapse.

Quality rehabilitation clinics will provide different durations of treatment programmes, different choices and styles of rehabs and will make recommendations depending on your personal clinical needs and requirements. You will receive a tailored treatment programme to ensure that you are treated as a whole person, using a person-centred approach to heal the mind, body and spirit.

GHB Addiction Rehabilitation

Typically, inpatient rehabilitation programmes will consist of the following evidence-based powerful corrective and healing treatments

• A full medical detox and a comprehensive medical assessment
• 24/7 care
• Personalised rehabilitation treatment programme
• Treatment for co-occurring and mental health illnesses
• Treatment from qualified professionals such as doctors, nurses, counsellors, psychologists, psychiatrists, holistic therapists and rehabilitation recovery workers
• A variety of proven and effective addiction treatments and holistic therapies

If you or your loved one are in need of extended rehab care and rehabilitation, there are also secondary treatment and tertiary/sober living options. The support available throughout the UK is incredible, and there is a large network of training and education providers and can help you to build a future for yourself and your loved ones also.

GHB Addiction Therapies

There are many therapies that have been proven to help recovery from addiction. Reliable rehabs will create a tailor-made rehabilitation programme for each client, consisting of a combination of the following evidence based-therapies:

• One-to-one counselling
• Cognitive behavioural therapy
• Dialectical behavioural therapy
• Group therapy
• 12 Step therapy
• Trauma therapy
• Holistic therapies including mindfulness, meditation, art & music, yoga, tai chi, massage, reflexology, auricular acupuncture, spiritual development, fitness programme
• Relapse-prevention and educational workshops

Recovery from GHB Addiction

Recovery from GHB abuse and addiction is possible with the correct treatment and support! We witness the miracle of recovery from addiction on a daily basis; let us help you achieve what you never thought was possible through our partnering of over 100 CQC-regulated rehab clinics across the UK and abroad. Our services cover the path from addiction to sobriety from the initial assessment to helping you find the ideal treatment programme and locations to the aftercare sessions.

Addiction Helper is passionate about saving the lives of those that suffer from the destructive and relentless illness that is addiction. We are compassionate and non-judgemental and will do all we can to help you and your family find the ideal rehabilitation package and assist you every single step of the way to a new way of life and a new found freedom.

For immediate confidential and expert help, call us now or chat with us live online. Addiction does not have to be a life or death sentence; we can help you find recovery and rebuild your life; something you and your family perhaps never dared dream was achievable.