31st August 2006

I note in today’s newspapers that alcohol related deaths in several health board areas in Scotland have risen to record levels. For instance in Fife they have increased to 76 and in Lanarkshire 184. Across the country there have been a 20% rise in alcohol related deaths since 1999. These are Scottish Executive figures. There has also been a rise of 25% in fatalities involving heroin. It is interesting to reflect on the fact that national health referrals from Fife and Lanarkshire have dropped because of lack of funding from these health board areas. Could these reduced referrals and increased in deaths from these two areas be any way related? Obviously many patients who require residential care for their addictions are not getting it. We also read in the papers that the deaths from cocaine addiction have soared, this is the drug that everyone claimed was safe, and have jumped almost ten-fold in four years. Castle Craig has seen many more cocaine addicts being admitted to treatment however mainly from the Netherlands. We would like to get the message across that cocaine addiction is very treatable especially using the 12 step or Minnesota Model approach. All patients will be referred after treatment to cocaine anonymous.

We also read today, about the inappropriate way that Liberal Democrats covered up on their former leader’s alcoholism. This is a typical response we see throughout industry and institutions when members of organisations try to cover up for their sick colleagues. It is quite disgraceful that politicians weld so much power while addicted and when their judgment must be warped. This applies to all political parties. Addiction must be confronted at all times and “tough love” applies to politicians just as much as to doctors, lawyers and family members.