More than 5,000 people in Gateshead need help with alcohol or drug abuse, a report has revealed.
According to Gateshead Council documents, 3,319 people are expected to require alcohol interventions, whereas 1,850 would require assistance for their opiate and or crack cocaine addiction. A health report also found addictions to benzodiazepines, amphetamines, and ecstasy remains community health concerns.
However, the report states despite recent council investments in drug and alcohol abuse treatments the system may not be able to cope with the demand.
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The report states: "If all the estimated people with unmet needs presented in one go we would have significant waiting lists. Therefore ensuring we have the ability to cater for the potential need is vital."
According to the NHS: "It's recommended to drink no more than 14 units of alcohol a week, spread across three days or more. That's around six medium (175ml) glasses of wine, or six pints of 4% beer.
"There's no completely safe level of drinking, but sticking within these guidelines lowers your risk of harming your health."
The council's report also acknowledges the effects of drug use in an individual tend to extend to wider family or friend networks. According to the report: "In addition to the impact on the individual service user, there are approximately three family members or carers who are also affected by a person's substance use."
Between 2020 and 2021, Gateshead Council recorded that approximately 900 people were receiving treatment for opiate dependency and around 800 people were in alcohol abuse treatment.
Gateshead Council also recorded some success with the 'Individual Placement Support' (IPS) for people suffering from addiction. The IPS supports people with addiction problems find employment.
Between October 2021 and November 2022, 14 people were aided by the service. The service is funded until March 2025.
The NHS recommends a GP appointment as a possible first port of call to discuss drug or alcohol-related problems. Drug charity Frank can also help people find drug treatment options on its website or on 0300 123 6600.
The Office for National Statistics recorded 8,974 alcohol-specific deaths in 2020. This represented an 18.6% increase from 2029, the largest year on year increase in 20 years.
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