GHB Rehab in Thailand

What is GHB?

GHB, or gamma hydroxybutyric acid, is a depressant that affects the central nervous system. Its effects are similar to those of alcohol, making users feel euphoric and confident. In larger doses, however, GHB can cause symptoms such as drowsiness, nausea, and unconsciousness, and it can even lead to amnesia​¹​.

The substance typically comes in a liquid or crystalline form, and it is both tasteless and odorless. These characteristics can make GHB difficult to detect, especially when it is mixed with alcohol, a combination that intensifies the effects of both substances. Its properties have also made it a common drug used in club scenes and, worryingly, as a date rape drug​¹​.

While GHB use is relatively rare in some countries like Thailand, there has been an observed trend of clients from around the world, particularly Europe, seeking rehab for GHB abuse. It’s often used by high school and college students and young adults who participate in club and rave scenes, where it can serve as an alternative to ecstasy. In a 2005 research study conducted in Los Angeles, it was found that 40% of young men aged 18 to 22 who identify as gay have tried club drugs like GHB​¹​.

The effects of GHB can last between 90 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the amount and frequency of use. The symptoms of GHB addiction can range from nausea, slow breathing, and vomiting to seizures and even death in some cases​¹​.

If you or someone you know is struggling with a GHB addiction, it’s important to know that help is available. Reach out to your local general practitioner or a drug and alcohol hotline for assistance. Rehabilitation centers, like Siam Rehab in Thailand, have helped a significant number of people looking for GHB rehab lead clean and sober lives after treatment​¹​.

Who Abuses GHB?

GHB abuse is relatively rare in Thailand however a growing number of addicted clients from around the world come to Thailand seeking rehab for GHB abuse. At Siam Rehab the majority of clients coming for GHB rehab come from Europe.

GHB is mainly abused by high school and college students as well as young adults that are into the club and rave scenes since it can be an alternative to ecstasy. Also in a research study done in 2005 in Los Angeles it was found that 40% of young men 18 – 22 years old who identify as gay have tried club drugs.

How to Treat GHB Addiction?

Treating GHB addiction is often a multifaceted process that involves both medical and therapeutic interventions. If you are physically dependent on GHB, the first step is typically detoxification. This should be carried out in a hospital or a dedicated GHB detox facility in your home country. The initial phase of detox can be challenging and potentially dangerous due to withdrawal symptoms, hence the need for specialized medical care​¹​.

Following detoxification, rehab can commence. At a place like Siam Rehab in Thailand, the treatment plan involves a combination of one-to-one therapy, group therapy, physical training, and experiential therapy such as equine-assisted therapy, art therapy, and mindfulness meditation. These therapeutic methods aim to help you understand the root causes of your drug abuse and address the issues that led to your GHB addiction. It’s not just about staying clean while in rehab, but also developing the skills and strategies to maintain sobriety in the long term​¹​.

The rehab process also includes planning for life post-rehab. This involves the creation of a personalized and actionable aftercare plan designed to reduce the risk of relapse and help you maintain a life of recovery. Remember, recovering from addiction is not just about stopping the use of the drug, but also about building a new, substance-free life​¹​.

Symptoms of GHB Use

GHB’s effects can last from 90 minutes to 3 hours depending on the amount a frequency used. Symptoms of GHB addiction can range from nausea, slow breathing, vomiting, seizures and even death in some cases.

What to Do if you are Addicted to GHB

Recognizing an addiction to GHB and seeking help is a crucial first step towards recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with GHB addiction, here are some steps you can take:

1. Consult a healthcare professional: Speak to your general practitioner or a medical professional specializing in addiction. They can provide guidance on the next steps and refer you to appropriate resources for help.

2. Explore treatment options: There are various options available for treating GHB addiction. This might include detoxification, therapy, counselling, and support groups. In some severe cases where there is a physical dependence on GHB, detoxification should be done in a hospital or a dedicated detox facility. This is due to the specialized care needed for the initial week or two to safely detox from the drug​¹​.

3. Consider rehab facilities: Rehab centers, such as Siam Rehab in Thailand, offer comprehensive treatment programs for GHB addiction. These include one-to-one and group therapy, physical training, and experiential therapies like equine-assisted therapy and mindfulness meditation. They focus on helping you understand why you’re abusing the drug and addressing the issues that led to the addiction. An actionable aftercare plan is also developed to aid in the journey of recovery and prevent relapse​¹​.

4. Reach out to hotlines and support groups: Drug and alcohol hotlines can provide immediate assistance and information about local resources. Support groups like Narcotics Anonymous can also provide a community of individuals who understand what you’re going through and offer moral support.

5. Stay committed to recovery: Overcoming addiction is a long-term commitment and it’s important to stay focused on recovery. This might involve building a support network, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and staying engaged with therapy or counselling​¹​.

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. There are resources available to help, and recovery is absolutely possible.