Joey M.D.

Two of the most difficult problems to treat are addiction to alcohol and addiction to drugs, whether prohibited or regulated. It is not only a problem of the individual, but also a problem of society. Think of how many people have been killed as a consequence of over-imbibement of alcoholic beverages. Drunk drivers are a common example, but there are also incidents of crimes committed when the perpetuators were under the influence of alcohol.

As for drug use, numerous crimes have been committed in the course of obtaining expensive drugs, like stealing, robbery, smuggling etc. Numerous crimes have also been committed when the criminal was “high”. Rape and homicide incidents increase whenever drugs are involved.

But what if you have a close friend or a family member who has an alcohol or drug problem?

It is really better a drug addict to undergo Drug Rehabilitation since getting rid of the drug habit is something that would need professional help. The treatment process not only involves the physical withdrawal of drugs, but also psychiatric help during the whole detoxification process and treatment of other physiologic problems. Also the treatment plan would depend on the type of substance the patient is addicted to. It should be individualized for each patient. That’s why it’s best that you send your loved one to the expert hands of the staff at a Drug Treatment Center.

For some reason, we do not have a facility for Alcohol Rehab Program locally. At least, none that I know of (Anybody may correct me if I’m wrong. I think we should.

Sure, the local custom of a gin-and-beer drinking spree is very deeply rooted, but sometimes we do get alcoholics (lasenggo in the local parlance) who do things that they would later regret. I do not have the numbers, but just from observation, there are more alcoholics than drug addicts. They also use their drunkenness as an excuse to do things they otherwise would not when they are sober. Things like wife beating, rape, homicide, and a whole lot more. The tabloids are full of those stories. The worse part of this whole tragedy is that they do not admit that they have a problem until something really tragic and irreversible occurs.