“My recovery has given my life new direction”

Cyril’s treatment for alcohol dependency made such an impact on him that he decided to pursue a brand new career. Today, he draws on his experience in treatment and recovery to encourage others to seek help with substance misuse.

When Cyril arrived at HAGA to discuss treatment for his alcohol dependency, he was pretty nervous

Gradually, through a series of one to one meetings with his key worker, he was able to talk about his fears and began to feel more positive about the idea of treatment. Having discussed various options, Cyril and his key worker agreed that the best course of treatment was a home based detox programme. This is a seven to ten day programme, with a high level of support from a specialist nurse. Often, such as in Cyril’s case, medication will be given to help with alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

At 8am on the first day of Cyril’s detox, his key worker arrived to begin the process. Initially Cyril had to take medication four times a day, but this gradually reduced until the very last day, he took only one. But it’s not just the medication that helped Cyril stop drinking, the frequent visits from his key worker gave him the psychological support he needed, allowing him to talk through his worries.

Having made it through his detox, Cyril was now concerned about what would happen next

He needn’t have worried, as he entered the recovery phase of his journey, the HAGA staff were there, providing help when he needed it. In fact, it was this support and encouragement that contributed to Cyril’s decision to help others who are struggling with drugs or alcohol related problems.