MORE ADDICTS SEEKING HELP FOR DISEASE

One in two addicts suffers a relapse within the first three months of
rehabilitation and less than 60% succeed in conquering their disease.

Rather than making depressing reading, the statistics are a
confirmation that a larger percentage of addicts are now seeking
counselling for their problems, according to Michael Devine of Tabor
Lodge, the addiction treatment centre.

"Less than 40 years ago we did not know what addiction was in this
country.

"As a result, the recovery rate was just 2%. Today, it is 60% and the
numbers seeking treatment continue to rise.

"It is important to realise that addiction is an incurable disease,
which is treatable.

Addicts can recover, but the disease will always be present," he
said.

Speaking ahead of a lecture on the Treatment of Addiction at the Cork
Centre for Mental Health last night, Mr Devine said while addiction
had always been a part of modern society, the range of problems
continue to grow.

"The majority of addicts we treat at the centre are mostly male
between 30 and 40 who have a problem with alcohol, but we are treating
more women who have a range of eating disorders," he said.

"The problem with street drugs is on the rise, and is not just
restricted to young people. We also treat elderly people who are
addicted to prescription medicine, as well as compulsive gamblers," he
said.

In all addictions, the success rate is the same, and without honesty
and support the chances of making it out the other side are greatly
reduced.

"Addicts have to be open, honest and willing. Open and honest about
their problem and willing to listen to others in finding a solution.

"The role and support of the family is very important.

"There is an element of denial to every addiction, and until the
addict is prepared to look at the reality of the situation and realise
the consequences of their action, treatment can be very difficult,"
said Mr Devine.

Once reality bites, the majority of sufferers experience feelings of
remorse and self hatred. It is then that the support of family, and
more importantly other addicts, is crucial.

"Addicts will take challenges from other addicts and they can learn
about the consequences of their addiction from group therapy sessions.