Psychiatric help after detox

[GANDONAS14]

My friend in Scotland is well on the way to completing a 28 day alcohol detox after a torrid time using alcohol to counteract diagnosed PTSD symptoms developed after major lifesaving surgery. While the clinic is a genuine rehab unit there is no facility for any evaluation of his PTSD symptoms. My query relates to the advice he has been given which is that no psychiatric consultant will be able to work with him until he has been 6 months sober and clean. That seems a long wait , can anyone offer any insight into the suggestion that has been made as my friend who is awaiting discharge would like to move on ? Many thanks for listening.

[Nathalie99 Partner]

I really don't know, GANDONAS14 as I don't have knowledge about this.

I hope that other members who live in Scotland can advise.

It's a very long time to be without help and I would be concerned that he might not be able to stay sober without help for his symptoms that are the cause for his drinking.

I don't know the rules, unfortunately.

[GANDONAS14 in reply to Nathalie99]

Hello , thanks indeed for your reply, it is a long time to be let astray.

Perhaps someone may have insight

Thanks for your reply

Graham

[LilyAnnepuppy]

Maybe I can offer some hope here. Think about someone coming out of surgery who is still under the influence of anesthesia. And they're talking and acting crazy. Can you adequately diagnose the mental issues? Probably not because the anesthesia has not worn off yet.

When I got sober, even though the immediate physical detox from the alcohol (anesthesia) may have worn off certainly within those 28 days, I needed a good 6 months in A.A. before my mental status could be assessed. I also was told not to believe (as long term) numbers in blood tests or even eye exams for a good year, as alcoholism plays such havoc with all the bodily functions.

This maybe the reason for the wait. Now if your friend does not participate in the A.A. program during those 6 months, I would be concerned because he's not going to be getting the help he needs. So I would suggest encouraging him to follow the suggestions and do what he's told. In my experience it has worked out fine.

[GANDONAS14 in reply to LilyAnnepuppy]

Hiya, thanks so much for replying, my worry is his reluctance to follow an orthodox aftercare programme, he wants to beat this himself not by appointing a higher being.

You mentioned you needed a good 6 months on an AA programme, was that your personal wish or medical recommendation ? Look forward to reading your comments again, its so helpful, have a nice weekend whatever you are doing.

[LilyAnnepuppy in reply to GANDONAS14]

It's my personal opinion based on hindsight. I knew a number of people who worked it both ways; counseling in conjunction with AA, and just AA. It became problematic when the counselor has different suggestions than the AA sponsor. Or the AA suggestions interfere with the therapy.

Either way, your friend wanting to beat either illness by himself is going to be a problem.

[GANDONAS14 in reply to LilyAnnepuppy]

Hello and much appreciated.

I will keep you posted

Thanks

G

[Hidden in reply to GANDONAS14]

Many online resources other than 12 Step approaches. Try Fit-Recovery.com to start. Lots more on YouTube as well as various podcasts. Good luck!

[GANDONAS14 in reply to Hidden]

Hi and thanks indeed , will look at that right away.