If you're trying to kick the habit, check into rehab, say experts. Instead of quick fixes to addiction, a firm resolve, proper counselling and a good support system go a long way in weaning you off drugs Did it begin as a one-time thing, just for kicks, leading to a second, for a good hit, and before you knew it, your experimental trip brought you down to spasmodic cravings for the next fix? If you are a chronic drug abuser, looking to kick the habit, help is here. You may have tried over and over again, only to find your will failing you, but experts say that with a little more resolve, counselling and a support system, drug addiction can surely be overcome just like it has been by thousands across the state. <img alt="" src="/imagedata/2011/jan/crime.jpg" border="5" /> Maharashtra has the highest number of registered drug addicts. According to records available with the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, 43,180 people have checked in for de-addiction in the state since 2007, much higher than any other state in the country. According to a UN report, a million heroin addicts are registered in India. Unofficially, there are five times the figure. And this, experts say, is a tiny fraction of the total number of substance abusers. Dr YA Matcheswalla, head of psychiatry department, Masina Hospital, Byculla, said that the number of cocaine abusers seeking rehabilitation is increasing in the city. u00a0 With the glamour quotient attached to the drug, it fast became the 'in' thing in party circles. "However, only a small fraction of drug abusers actually check in for rehabilitation," he pointed out. Drug abuse causes psychotic disorders and it requires medical help and counselling. It can be overcome," said Nilesh Shah, head of psychiatry department, Sion Hospital. The first step is acceptance, followed by a resolve to quit and take remedial measures. "One should begin by admitting to the addiction, and avoiding the company of people whou00a0 encourage drug consumption," said Shah. Eexpert View Dr Y A Matcheswalla, head of psychiatry department, Masina Hospital An adequate professional setup is necessary to help an abuser through the rehab process. A thorough examination, including psychiatric, psychological and medical history, is the first step. Depending on the severity of the problem, we decide on treatment. For mild abusers, medication for craving pangs and mood disorders is prescribed. We also do group therapy, such as dance, yoga and music classes for gradual weaning. It normally takes around five years for total de-addiction. Since chances of relapse are high, adequate care must be taken. Kripa foundation De-addiction Centre, Bhardawadi Municipal Hospital, 3rd Floor, Bhardawadi Road, Andheri (W), Mumbai - 400 058. Phone: 022 - 26778950/26778569/ 26778806/26778878/26774887 Seva Dhan Fourth Floor, Municipal Hospital Building, Bhardawadi, Andheri (W), Mumbai - 400 058 Phone: 022 2620 8317 National Addiction Research Centre Bhardawadi Hospital 5th Floor, Opp. Navrang Andheri (W) Mumbai - 400008 Manav Foundation Masina Hospital, (Main Building, 2nd Floor), Sant Savata Marg, Byculla(E), Mumbai - 400027 Ph: 91-22-2372 4889 Email: <a href="mailto:info@manavfoundation.org.in">info@manavfoundation.org.in</a> Things you could do to kick the habit If you are a drug abuser and want to quit, be honest with yourself and others. A sincere attempt is the least you can give yourself. Do not set unrealistic deadlines for yourself. De-addiction is a long process, be patient with yourself. Decide that you really want to stop using drugs. Unless you have the desire to change, you will never be able to. Remove influences conducive to drug use from your life. Write down a list of things you enjoyed doing before you started using drugs. Start doing them again. Enrol in classes that suit your hobbies. Find healthy activities to replace drug usage, Develop and use positive self talk. Identify your triggers, like people, places, things, events, activities, emotions, and dates that spur your craving for drugs. Once you identify them, avoid them.

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If you're trying to kick the habit, check into rehab, say experts. Instead of quick fixes to addiction, a firm resolve, proper counselling and a good support system go a long way in weaning you off drugs

Breaking free of dope? Don't go cold Turkey

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