Solvent Addiction - Counselling and Treatment
Solvent abuse involves the inhaling of substances which are intended for other uses such as paint stripper, glue, aerosols and butane gas for refilling cigarette lighters. A common trend amongst teenagers is inhaling Tipp-ex fumes or deodorants in order to get high. People who have limited access to drugs such as children (especially street children), prisoners and those in institutions will often become immersed in solvent addiction.
Solvents are abused by inhaling fumes out of plastic bags or some kind of cloth. Gases are sprayed into plastic bags and then inhaled. Abusers also spray the drug through cloth such as a pillow or sleeve straight into their mouths. Substances such as glue and paint thinners are poured into a plastic bag and the fumes inhaled. The effects of inhaling a solvent does not last very long, creating an intense high followed ery quickly by depression. "Poppers" are also a solvent and are sold in adult entertainment stores as a sexual aid.
The physical and mental effects of inhalants and solvents include euphoria, hallucinations, dizziness, nausea and characteristics similar to alcohol intoxication. Distortions of space and time are also experienced.
Inhalants can kill. The ingredients in solvents are not intended for use as a drug and contain harmful chemicals which can cause a heart attack. Users have been known drift into unconsciousness and choke to death on their own vomit. Signs of long term solvent addiction include a rash around the mouth, a smell of solvents on the breath and clothes and wheezing.
Solvent addiction treatment may be required for those addicted to chronic use of inhalants. Abstinence can be achieved through the use of a 12 Step recovery programme in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle and drug addiction counselling at professional drug treatment facilities.
Oasis Counselling Centre provides solvent addiction treatment with qualified addiction counsellors at their rehab centre in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa.
