In the past, it was often said that drugs cause addiction. Modern research, however, shows that the situation is more complex.

Not the drug, but the relationship to it

Author Nepustil (2020) points out that the drug itself does not cause addiction. While it is true that it affects brain function, whether a person becomes addicted depends mainly on their life situation, mental state, and environment.
Similarly, Gábor Maté (2022) writes that there is nothing in a chemical substance itself that weakens a person’s ability to stop using it. Addiction therefore does not arise solely because of the drug, but because the person finds relief in it or a way to cope with pain, stress, or emptiness.

How addiction develops: learning and habit

Addiction is a learning process. When a person experiences relief, relaxation, or a pleasant feeling after using a substance or engaging in a certain activity, the brain remembers it as a “reward.” With repetition, this pattern is reinforced and a habit is formed.

Gradually, the brain learns that this behavior or substance is the fastest way to reduce tension or pain. This is why addiction cannot simply be “cut off.” It is not enough to stop; it is necessary to learn new ways of coping with stress, pain, or emptiness.

The need to repeat certain behaviors is natural—we learn positive things in the same way, such as sports or music. The difference lies in whether the behavior brings long-term benefit or risk.

What does the term “addiction” actually mean?

Experts have not yet agreed on a single precise definition. Addiction is a complex phenomenon that cannot be simplified as merely a “disease” or a “bad habit.”
This is also why some institutions are changing the language they use:

• The World Health Organization (WHO) no longer uses the term addiction and instead uses dependence. This term emphasizes the physical aspect—for example, withdrawal symptoms when a substance is not available.
• The European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) uses the term addictive behavior, which also includes non-substance addictions, such as gambling, internet use, or shopping.
  

A new perspective: “Heavy Use Over Time”

Researchers from the project Addiction and Lifestyles in Contemporary Europe (ALICE RAP) proposed a new term: HUOT – Heavy Use Over Time.

This concept describes a continuum of behavior rather than a fixed boundary between “addicted” and “non-addicted.” It shows that addiction is a process that develops gradually and is less stigmatizing—it does not label a person as a “junkie” or “sick,” but rather describes their experience over time.

From a moral to a systemic perspective

In the past, addiction was explained mainly in moral terms (“it is a weakness”) or medically (“it is a disease”).
Today, more and more professionals lean toward systemic models that take into account psychological, biological, family, and social factors.
In other words, addiction should be seen as the result of many interconnected influences, not just a single cause.

Addiction is not about willpower, but about how the brain responds to stress, pain, and pleasure. In some people, habits form more quickly; in others, not at all. This is not a sign of weakness, but a consequence of biological and psychological processes.

Addiction is not purely an individual matter. Although it affects the individual, it arises and persists within a social environment. Relationships, family, economic situation, and social norms all play a role. Therefore, addiction cannot be discussed in isolation—it is also a social issue.

Addiction can develop not only to illegal drugs, but also to alcohol, cigarettes, the internet, games, food, or relationships. It involves repetitive behavior that brings relief or pleasure, but over time begins to cause problems. Society often mistakenly divides people into “addicted” and “non-addicted.” In reality, we all have certain habits or attachments—to technology, food, work, or recognition.The difference lies only in degree and in how these habits affect our lives. Addiction is therefore not an exception, but an extreme form of common human behavior.

Zinberg’s triangle – three factors that influence drug use

American psychiatrist Norman Zinberg introduced a simple but insightful model that helps explain why and how people use drugs.
He stated that human behavior is influenced by three interconnected areas:

1. The drug (substance) – the substance itself, its purity, and the method of use (e.g., smoking, injecting, snorting).
   
2. The person (set) – their mental state, expectations, experiences, and physical health.
3. The environment (setting) – where and in what atmosphere the drug is used (e.g., at home, at a party, in safety or under stress), as well as social norms and attitudes toward drugs.

These three factors together create the overall picture of behavior.
Zinberg’s model shows that drugs alone do not explain why someone begins to use problematically. What matters is also a person’s life situation, experiences, and environment.

Different levels of drug use: not everyone who tries a drug is addicted

When people hear the phrase “drug user,” most imagine someone who is fully dependent on drugs. In reality, there are various levels of use—from a one-time experiment to complete life domination by a substance.

Older classification models: from experimenter to addicted person

In older approaches, people were divided into four groups based on the level of dependence:

• experimenters – who only try a drug,
• recreational (weekend) users – who use it occasionally,
• dependent users – who use regularly and experience problems,
• treated users – people who have undergone treatment.

This view assumed that drug use always follows the same progression: experimentation, occasional use, regular use, and finally addiction. Today we know this is not how it works. Not everyone who tries a drug automatically becomes addicted. Drug use changes depending on personality, life situation, mental state, and environment. Many people remain in certain stages and never approach addiction.

Today we know this is not how it works. Not everyone who tries a drug automatically becomes addicted. Drug use changes depending on personality, life situation, mental state, and environment. Many people remain in certain stages and never approach addiction.

Zinberg’s view: use as a continuum

Psychiatrist Norman Zinberg proposed a different, more open perspective. He suggested that drug use can be viewed as a continuum—a smooth scale from abstinence to uncontrolled use.

His stages include:

1. No use / abstinence – the person does not use the drug or has stopped using it.
2. Experimental use – the person tries the drug to learn about its effects.
3. Occasional use – the drug is used only sometimes, for example during celebrations or holidays.
4. Regular use – the drug becomes a routine part of life, for example every weekend.
5. Regular use with problems – difficulties begin to appear, such as memory lapses, worsening health, or conflicts.
6. Chaotic (uncontrolled) use – the person subordinates their entire life to the drug; this is fully developed addiction.
   

Not everyone goes through all stages

Importantly, not everyone passes through all phases from experimentation to addiction.
Some people stop at the first or second stage, others return to a drug only occasionally.
Each person has their own story, reasons, and limits.

Zinberg’s model therefore shows that most people who use drugs are not addicted.
Many remain in earlier stages where use is occasional—although it can still carry certain risks.

Moreover, the myth “once an addict, always an addict” reinforces stigma and reduces the chances for change. Many people gradually recover from addiction and are able to live full lives. Recovery is not always fast or easy, but it is possible.

Why say “people with experience of drug use” instead of “junkies”

Terms such as “junkie” or “drug addict” evoke negative images—of someone who is “at rock bottom,” irresponsible, or dangerous. Such language is stigmatizing and can prevent people from seeking help.

Therefore, professionals recommend using the more neutral term “people with experience of drug use.
This term includes everyone—from those who only experiment to those who are dependent.

People with experience of drug use can be:

• students,
  
• parents,
  
• working people,
• people experiencing homelessness,
• as well as people who have completed treatment.

This perspective helps reduce prejudice and allows drug use to be seen as a diverse phenomenon, rather than a single image of “the addicted person.”

Addiction and trauma

Trauma is a strong, painful experience that a person was unable to process. It can involve neglect, abuse, violence, loss, or long-term stress. When such experiences are not healed, they remain in the body and mind as ongoing tension.

For many people, substances or addictive behaviors become a way to ease this tension. They help numb pain, forget, or get through the day. From this perspective, addiction is not only a problem, but also an attempt at a solution—albeit an unsustainable one. Drug use is therefore not always purely negative.

This is why it is important that support for people with addiction is not focused solely on abstinence, but also on healing trauma and finding safe ways to cope with emotions. Addiction is a natural consequence of trauma. Závislosť je prirodzený dôsledok traumy.

Sources:

NEPUSTIL, P. – GEREGOVÁ, M. a kol. 2020. Bez podmínek : Metody psychosociální podpory pro lidi užívající drogy. Brno : Masarykova univerzita, 219 s. ISBN 978-80-210-9667-7.

JIREŠOVÁ, K. a kol. 2005. Úvod do HARM REDUCTION : Príručka pre učiteľa. Bratislava : Nadácia otvorenej spoločnosti – Open Society Foundation, 190 s. ISBN 80-969271-2-4.

JIREŠOVÁ, K. – JAVORKOVÁ, S. 2003. Harm reduction v problematike injekčného užívania drog. Bratislava : OZ Odyseus, 113 s. ISBN 80-968576-6-5.

KALINA, K. a kol. 2015. Klinická adiktologie. Praha : Grada, 696 s. ISBN 978-80-247-4331-8.

MATÉ, G. 2022. V říši hladových duchů : Blízká setkání se závislostí. 2. vyd. Praha : PeopleComm, 416 s. ISBN 978-80-87917-78-7.

FISCHER, S. – ŠKODA, J. 2009. Sociální patologie : Analýza příčin a možnosti ovlivňování závažných sociálně patologických jevů. Praha : Grada, 224 s. ISBN 978-80-247-2781-3.

The post Addiction and Drugs: Myths, Facts, and Understanding appeared first on drogy.org.

Unfortunately, having an HIV-positive status still carries a certain stigma in our society, and people naturally fear the HIV virus. Paradoxically, however, HIV is less infectious than many other sexually transmitted viruses. In the context of sexual intercourse, anal sex carries the highest risk. Fears surrounding HIV stem mainly from the perceived “incurability” of this infection. In this article, we will focus on HIV treatment and ways to reduce HIV transmission.

HIV treatment with antiretroviral therapy (ART)

HIV infection is not yet completely curable, but it is effectively treatable, meaning that treatment prevents disease progression and improves the quality of life of people living with HIV. HIV treatment is called antiretroviral therapy (ART). ART involves taking a combination of HIV medications every day. The drugs are combined to reduce the risk that HIV will become resistant to the medications used. HIV attacks and destroys CD4 cells (T lymphocytes) of the immune system that fight infection. Loss of CD4 cells makes it harder for the body to fight infections and certain HIV-related cancers. HIV medications prevent HIV from replicating (making copies of itself), which reduces the amount of HIV in the body (called viral load). Having less HIV in the body gives the immune system a chance to recover and produce more CD4 cells. Even though some HIV remains in the body, the immune system is strong enough to fight infections and certain HIV-related cancers.

Course of treatment

Taking HIV medications keeps people with HIV healthy and prevents HIV transmission. Taking HIV medications every day and exactly as prescribed (so-called adherence) also reduces the risk of drug resistance. People with HIV should start taking HIV medications as soon as possible after being diagnosed. People with HIV who become pregnant and are not yet taking HIV medications should also start treatment as soon as possible.

During treatment, the following are regularly monitored:

• CD4+ lymphocyte count,
• amount of circulating virus in plasma – viral load,
• occurrence of HIV-related infections and tumors,
• side effects during treatment.

HIV medications may interact with other HIV medications in the treatment regimen or with other medications a person is taking. Healthcare providers carefully consider potential drug interactions before setting an HIV treatment regimen. If you receive a reactive HIV test result, you will be referred to an infectious disease HIV clinic. In Slovakia, these include the following clinics:

• Bratislava – Center for the Treatment of HIV/AIDS Patients, University Hospital Bratislava, Ladislav Dérer University Hospital, Kramáre
• Nitra – HIV Clinic, University Hospital Nitra
• Banská Bystrica – Infectious Disease Clinic I (HIV/AIDS Clinic), F. D. Roosevelt University Hospital with Polyclinic
• Martin – Clinic for Treatment and Follow-up of HIV/AIDS Positive Persons, University Hospital Martin
• Košice – Center for Follow-up and Treatment of HIV-Positive Persons, L. Pasteur University Hospital Košice

In Slovakia, everyone is entitled to free HIV treatment, regardless of drug use or health insurance debt.

Living with HIV

ART is recommended for everyone living with HIV. Today, every patient who agrees to treatment should be treated. The importance of treatment lies not only in the individual benefit for a specific person (stopping viral replication and preventing disease progression), but also in the collective epidemiological effect (preventing transmission to others). HIV medications help people with HIV live longer and healthier lives. ART also reduces the risk of HIV transmission. By lowering the amount of HIV in the body, HIV medications reduce the risk of transmitting HIV. The main goal of HIV treatment is to reduce a person’s viral load to an undetectable level. An undetectable viral load means that the level of HIV in the blood is too low to be detected by a viral load test. Achieving and maintaining an undetectable viral load is the best thing people with HIV can do to stay healthy. Another benefit of reducing the amount of virus in the body is that it prevents transmission to others through sex or sharing injection equipment, as well as from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding. This is sometimes referred to as Treatment as Prevention (TaSP).
However, HIV medications can sometimes cause side effects. Most side effects are manageable, but some can be serious. Overall, the benefits of HIV medications far outweigh the risks of side effects. In addition, newer HIV medications cause fewer side effects than those used in the past. As HIV treatment continues to improve, people are less likely to experience side effects from their HIV medications.

Reducing transmission risk – PrEP and PEP

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a medication taken to prevent HIV infection. It is used by people at risk of HIV infection to prevent becoming infected during risky sexual behavior or injection drug use. PrEP can prevent HIV from establishing itself and spreading in the body. PrEP is highly effective at preventing HIV when taken as prescribed. When taking one PrEP tablet daily, the risk of acquiring HIV from sex is reduced by approximately 99%. PrEP reduces the risk of acquiring HIV through injection drug use by at least 74%. Condom use remains important for protection against other sexually transmitted infections. Condoms are also important for HIV prevention if PrEP is not taken as prescribed. PrEP can be taken not only regularly but also on an event-based basis, for example if you know you will attend a chemsex party. In this case, you should take two tablets the day before the event and then one tablet daily for the following two days. However, consult your doctor about correct dosing. In Slovakia, PrEP is fully covered by Union and VšZP health insurance. PrEP can only be prescribed by an infectious disease specialist at HIV/AIDS treatment clinics (listed above), and no referral from a general practitioner is required.

Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) involves the use of antiretroviral medications to prevent HIV from spreading in the body after a high-risk situation where HIV transmission may have occurred, for example after sex with an HIV-positive person. These medications must be started no later than 72 hours (3 days) after the risky situation, otherwise they will not work. PEP is effective in preventing HIV infection if taken correctly, but it is not 100% effective. The sooner you start PEP after possible HIV exposure, the better—every hour counts. PEP should only be used in emergency situations. It is not intended for regular use by people who may be frequently exposed to HIV. While taking PEP, it is important to use other HIV prevention methods, such as correct condom use during every sexual encounter and using only new, sterile needles and equipment when injecting drugs. PEP medications are taken for 28 days and are prescribed by an infectious disease specialist. These medications are not covered by any health insurance in Slovakia. They are only covered in cases of sexual assault, and no examination is required to “prove” the assault. In other cases, the cost usually ranges from approximately €150 to €250.

We understand that the process of testing and treatment can be challenging, but we can help you with it, so do not hesitate to contact us.

If you are interested in HIV testing, you can reach us at +421 947 929 724 or by email at brustikova.odyseus@gmail.com. We can provide not only testing but also accompaniment to an infectious disease clinic and support throughout the treatment process. We provide services in Bratislava; you can read more on our website oz odyseus.

Sources:

Jak odletět na Mars a bezpečne se vrátit zpátky – příručka přežití pro uživatele chemsexu by Prague Pride & Cuntessa

The post HIV treatment appeared first on drogy.org.

HCV (hepatitis C) is an inflammatory disease of the liver caused by the hepatitis C virus. It is transmitted through blood, for example by sharing needles, a snorting tube/snuff tube, or other tools used for drug use, through unprotected sex, and similarly. The only way to find out whether someone is infected is through testing. The good news is that we already have effective, life-saving treatment for this infection, thanks to which a person with HCV can be completely cured. If your HCV test shows a reactive result, it is necessary to have a medical examination follow, where a doctor will perform a confirmatory test. In Slovakia, HCV infection can be treated by two specialist doctors: an infectious disease specialist or a hepatologist. In order to get to these doctors, you need a referral from your general practitioner. The examination is not painful and usually consists of a blood draw, an ultrasound, a FibroScan, and a medical history.

Treatment

HCV can be treated and cured. Progress in medicine has brought new treatment for HCV. Today, there is therefore highly effective treatment that cures more than 95% of people of HCV. The medicines used to treat HCV are called pangenotypic direct-acting antivirals. These medicines block the HCV virus’s ability to replicate. That is, they prevent the virus from continuing to multiply in your liver, and the virus gradually disappears completely from the body over the course of several weeks of treatment. HCV treatment is a combination of two or more types of direct-acting antivirals. Treatment is taken in tablet form and usually lasts from 8 to 12 weeks. This means you will regularly take one tablet every day for three months. Today, interferon is no longer used for treatment, so you do not need to worry that you would be given interferon injections, have a liver biopsy (a needle into the liver), or experience many side effects. In fact, this treatment has minimal or possibly no side effects. The most common side effects include headache, fatigue, nausea, and diarrhea. These side effects are usually mild and disappear after a few weeks of treatment. Being cured of HCV means that the hepatitis C virus is no longer in a person’s body. The treatment outcome is also called a sustained virologic response. People who have a negative or undetectable HCV RNA test result 12 weeks after completing HCV treatment are considered cured.

In most cases, treatment is successful, meaning the person is cured. In certain cases, however, it may happen that the first course of treatment fails, meaning the person was not cured of HCV. In this case, the doctor will assess what treatment approach should follow. Usually, however, treatment should continue until the person is successfully cured, but this may depend on various circumstances (e.g., approval of re-treatment by the health insurance company).

For your treatment to have the best possible chance of working, you must take all your tablets every day exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is very important that you successfully complete the entire course of treatment.

HCV treatment and drug use

The fact that you use drugs is not an obstacle to being treated and cured of hepatitis C. You can also be treated if you drink alcohol. During HCV treatment, you do not have to stop using drugs. Drug use does not reduce the effectiveness of treatment. Drug use also does not change the type of treatment that will be prescribed to you. People who use drugs also have the right to free HCV treatment in Slovakia. Debts in health insurance are no longer an obstacle either. Some people may initially be denied treatment due to drug or alcohol use or a high degree of liver damage. You have the right to appeal, because access to treatment cannot be denied to you. HCV treatment can help your health. You deserve respectful care from doctors, nurses, and other healthcare staff.

What happens after treatment?

People who are cured will always have antibodies against HCV in their blood, but they have no HCV virus in their body. This means that for the rest of their life they will have a reactive result on an HCV antibody test. If you want or need to use drugs even after treatment, that is your decision. However, it is important to keep in mind that there is no vaccine or immunity against HCV. This means that even if you are cured of HCV, you can become infected again and get HCV again. This is called reinfection. Therefore, during and after treatment you should follow safer drug use principles:

Mal/a by si preto aj počas a po liečbe dodržiavať zásady bezpečnejšieho užívania drog:

• never use someone else’s needles, syringes, water, filter, stopper, tourniquet; always have everything of your own and ideally sterile,
• use your own snuff tube/snorting tube and pipe; never share,
• if you use a pipe after someone else, first disinfect the part of the pipe that you put in your mouth,
• or use your own mouthpiece for the pipe.

Even after treatment, you should take care of your liver. If your liver was already in the last stage of fibrosis before HCV treatment—cirrhosis—you will need to attend check-ups even after completing treatment. This is because cirrhosis carries a risk of liver cancer, so the liver must be monitored every six months, even if liver health improves after treatment. If your liver was not at the cirrhosis stage before treatment, you do not need specific monitoring for liver cancer screening after being cured of HCV. In both cases, however, you should adjust your diet and lifestyle so that your liver does better.

Benefits of treatment

Even though people still talk about how treatment can help your health, it can be difficult to imagine this in practice. For many people, quality of life improves. So what can I expect from treatment and what are the benefits of being cured of HCV?

• The HCV virus can no longer damage your liver.
• Treatment also prevents liver failure and reduces the chance of developing liver cancer or dying.
• Since the liver can regenerate itself, the function of your liver may improve over time.
• You may have more energy.
• You may have less body pain.
• Your sleep may improve.
• You will not transmit the HCV virus to other people, which also protects those around you.

We understand that the testing and treatment process can be challenging, but we can help you with it, so do not hesitate to contact us. If you are interested in HCV testing, you can reach us at +421 947 929 724 or by email at brustikova@ozodyseus.sk. We can provide not only testing but also accompaniment to an infectious disease or hepatology outpatient clinic and also through the treatment process. We provide services in Bratislava; you can read more on our website oz odyseus.

Sources:

http://librarypdf.catie.ca/ATI-70000s/70194.pdf

The post HCV Treatment appeared first on drogy.org.

The following list of abstinent clubs is sorted alphabetically by city in Slovakia.

Klub abstinujúcich závislých – Bánovce nad Bebravou

Meeting place: Dom Apoštolskej cirkvi, Ulica SNP 460, 957 01 Bánovce nad Bebravou

Meeting day and time: every Friday at 18:00

Mobile: 0907 592 876

Email: klubazbanovce@gmail.com

Byska – Banská Bystrica

Meeting place: CPLDZ, Cesta k nemocnici 55, 974 01 Banská Bystrica

Meeting day and time: every Tuesday at 16: 30-18: 30

Email: wolt@cpldz-bb.sk

Klub abstinujúcich narkomanov – Banská Bystrica

Meeting place: CPLDZ, Cesta k nemocnici 55, 974 01 Banská Bystrica

Meeting day and time: every Thursday at 17:00

Mobile: 0902 051 079

Email: pavol.zvarik62@gmail.com

A1 Club – Bratislava

Meeting place: AT Sanatorium, Osuského 10, 841 01 Bratislava

Meeting day and time: every Monday at 17:00

Mobile: 0910 907 591

ALFA-club – Bratislava

Meeting place: Leisure Center, Gessayova 6, 851 03 Bratislava

Meeting day and time: every Wednesday at 17:30

Mobile: 0910 907 591

A2 Club – Bratislava

Meeting place: AT Sanatorium, Osuského 10, 841 01 Bratislava

Meeting day and time: Tuesday at 16:00

Mobile: 0905 620 652

Email: polcer.jozef@golemtech.sk

AA – Bratislava

Meeting place: CPLDZ Hraničná and Counseling of Psychological Services Tomášikova

Meeting day and time: first Thursday at 18:30, second Wednesday at 18:30

Mobile: 0905 620 652

JAS CLUB

Meeting place: Hraničná č. 2, Bratislava, 827 99

Meeting day and time: Tuesday at 17:00

Mobile: 0905 648 702

Email: mvaradinek@zoznam.sk

H-Club – Bratislava

Meeting place: AT Sanatórium, Osuského 10, 851 03 Bratislava

Meeting day and time: every Tuesday and Thursday at 19:30 – 21:00

Mobile: 0917 621 610

A-club HRON – Brezno

Meeting place: Nám. M. R. Štefánika 2, 977 01 Brezno

Meeting day and time: first and third Tuesday of the month at 15:00

Mobile: 0911 481 415

E-mail: bozena.szantoova@gmail.com

Klub abstinentov – Brezová pod Bradlom

Meeting place: Budovateľská 379/46, 906 13 Brezová pod Bradlom

Meeting day and time: every odd week on Friday at 18: 00-20: 00

Mobile: 0904 172 652

Email: kment.milos@stonline.sk

AK – Motýľ – Čadca

Meeting place: Church of St. Jozef Robotník – Pastorational Center, SNP 1315, 022 04 Čadca

Meeting day and time: every Friday at 16:00

Mobile: 0911 133 065

Email: jozefjw@post.cz

AK – Choč – Dolný Kubín

Meeting place: Nám. Ján Vojtaššák 1551/1 (Church in Brezovec), 026 01 Dolný Kubín

Meeting day and time: first and last Friday of the month at 16:00

Mobile: 0905 573 315

Email: lassak.frantisek5@gmail.com

A-club – Dunajská Streda

Meeting place: Bartók Korzo 781 Municipal Cultural Center, 1st floor no. 111, 929 01 Dunajská Streda

Meeting day and time: every Wednesday at 18: 30-19: 45

Mobile: 0944 153 250

Email: aklubdunstreda@gmail.com

Stretnutia abstinentov – Galanta

Meeting place: Dom Matice Slovenskej v Galanta, Bratislavská cesta 1458/71, 924 01 Galanta

Meeting day and time: every Tuesday at 18: 00-20: 00

Mobile: 0905 240 916

Email: lega@mail.t-com.sk

Fénix – Abstinent Club – Handlová

Meeting place: Partizánska ul. 38, 972 51 Handlova

Meeting day and time: every Thursday at 16:00

Mobile: 0917 581 192

Email: jankavankova35@gmail.com

HAK – Handlovský abstinence club – Handlova

Meeting place: Dom kultúry, Nám. miners, 972 51 Handlová

Meeting date and time: 15:30 every Monday

Mobile: 0915 287 657

Email: jholica@gmail.com

Archa A-Club – Hlohovec

Meeting place: Františkánske nám. 1 (Pastoral Center Krtko), 920 01 Hlohovec

Meeting date and time: odd Thursday at 18: 00-20: 00

Mobile: 0905 239 056

Email: lubjano@gmail.com

KLUS – Humenné

Meeting place: May 1, 2680/19, 069 01 Snina

Day and time of the meeting: 1st, 3rd, and 4th Wednesday of the month at 16:00

Mobile: 0918 334 774

Email: slavo.novak@orangemail.sk

KRASA A-club – Kanianka

Meeting place: Parish Office, Lipová 547, 972 17 Kanianka

Meeting day and time: every Friday at 18:00 to 20:00

Mobile: 0907 742 359

Email: aklubkrasa@gmail.com

AA Kežmarok

Meeting place: Kežmarok High School – ground floor, Hviezdoslavova 18, 060 01 Kežmarok

Meeting day and time: every Monday at 16: 00-17: 00

Mobile: 0918 592 090

SET – Spolok extra triezvych – Kežmarok

Meeting place: MsKS, Starý trh 46, 060 01 Kežmarok

Meeting day and time: second Tuesday of the month at 17:00

Mobile: 0915 909 447

Email: set@slavino.sk

AK – Dobrý pastier – Kláštor pod Znievom

Meeting place: Dom u Terezky

Meeting day and time: every odd Tuesday at 15:00

Mobile: 0950 707 136

Email: ziman.dusan@gmail.com

AK KYSUCA – Kysucké Nové Mesto

Meeting place: CVČ sv. Jakuba ul. Janka Jesenského 2928, Kysucké Nové Mesto (on the 1st floor in the parish library)

Meeting day and time: Tuesday at 16:00

Mobile: 0949 679 848

Email: aklubkysuca@gmail.com

Priatelia života – A club – Košice

Meeting place: CPLDZ, Skladná 2, Košice, 040 01

Meeting day and time: first and third Friday of the month at 17:00

Mobile: 0907 132 898

Email: priateliazivota@centrum.sk

KA – Kremienok – Kremnica

Meeting place: Ambulance PhDr. Annerovej, Hospital with polyclinic, Sládkovičova 11, 965 37 Žiar nad Hronom

Meeting day and time: Tuesday at 16:00

Klub abstinujúcich Goral – Lendak

Meeting place: Parish office building, Kostolná 134/55, 059 07 Lendak

Meeting date and time: Every other Friday of the odd week at 19:00

Mobile: 0944 250 221

Email: hudak.pavol1930@gmail.com

Klub abstinentov – Nový začiatok – Levice

Meeting place: MsKS Junior 5th floor, no. 506, Sladkovicova 2, 934 01 Levice

Meeting day and time: second and fourth Thursday of the month at 16:30

Mobile: 0918 023 264

Email: aklublevice@azet.sk

KOČ – Kruciata oslobodenia človeka – Levoča

Meeting place: Útulok sv. Františka, Košická 2, 054 01 Levoča

Meeting day and time: Every Thursday at 17:00

Mobile: 0908 452 589

Email: romus@post.sk

Abstinentský klub MAJÁK – Liptovský Hrádok

Meeting place: Seniors Club in the House of Culture, J. D. Matejovie 591/14, 033 01 Liptovský Hrádok

Meeting day: every even Friday of the month at 14:30

Mobile: 0908 106 782

Email: cervenanskyp@gmail.com

Klub Nádej – Liptovský Mikuláš

Meeting place: Dom kultúry – Klub Nádej OZ, 031 01 Liptovský Mikuláš

Meeting day: every Monday at 16:00

Mobile: 0911 639 973

Email: aklubnadej@gmail.com

A-club Lučenec

Meeting place: Ul. Rázusa 22, 964 01 Lučenec

Meeting day and time: first Wednesday of the month at 14:00

Mobile: 0907 881 129

LEMAK – Levársko-malacký klub abstinentov – Malacky

Meeting place: Enter n. o., 1. mája 2382/15, 901 01 Malacky

Meeting day and time: every odd week on Friday at 16:00

Mobile: 0905 777 150

Email: lemak1991@gmail.com

Klub martinských abstinentov – Martin

Meeting place: Evangelical parish, Memorandovo nám. 1003/13, 036 01 Martin

Meeting day and time: every Monday 17: 30-19: 30

Mobile: 0918 247 179

Email: peter.debnar@gmail.com

MINI KLUS – Medzilaborce

Meeting place: Eurohotel Laborec (hunting lounge), Andy Warhol 195/28, 068 01 Medzilaborce

Meeting day and time: second Monday of the month at 18:00

Mobile: 0907 971 634

ZAS – Zemplínska abstinujúca spoločnosť – Michalovce

Meeting place: Partizánska 23, 071 01 Michalovce-Stráňany

Meeting date and time: first Monday of the month at 15:30

Mobile: 0915 866 311

Email: mrimko@post.sk

AK- Modrý Kameň – Veľký Krtíš

Meeting place: Internal outpatient clinic, psychiatric outpatient clinic NsP, Banícka 1, 990 01 Veľký Krtíš

Meeting day and time: last Monday of the month at 16:00

Abstinentský klub Bodva – Moldava nad Bodvou

Meeting place: Poliklinika, Ul. ČSA 35 (basement, no. 30), 045 01 Moldava nad Bodvou

Meeting day and time: even weeks on Wednesday at 17:00

Mobile: 0911 644 956

Email: akbodva16@azet.sk

Klub abstinentov – Myjava

Meeting place: Jánošíková 383/4, 907 01 Myjava

Meeting day and time: every odd week on Thursday at 16:00

Mobile: 0905 838 514

Email: hrin.stevo@gmail.com

A-club – Nitra

Meeting place: Restaurant OKO – conference part, Fraňa Mojtu 6, 949 01 Nitra

Meeting day and time: Tuesday at 16:00

Email: klozik.frant@zoznam.sk

AK – Maják– Nitra

Meeting place: Center for Counseling and Intervention Services Budúcnosť, n. o., Wilsonovo nábrežie 82, 949 01 Nitra

Day and time of the meeting: 2., 4. and the 5th Thursday of the month at 16: 00-18: 00

Mobile: 0908 022 452

Email: buducnostno@gmail.com

A-club – Nové Mesto nad Váhom

Meeting place: House of Culture, Hviezdoslavova 4, 915 01 Nové Mesto nad Váhom

Meeting day and time: every even Thursday at 16:00

Mobile: 0903 220 080

Email: fitness.jarabek@centrum.sk

A-club – Omšenie

Meeting place: 914 43 Omšenie č. 17

Meeting day and time: every even week on Friday at 20:00

A-club Jaseň – Oravska Jasenica

Meeting place: Parish Office, 018 17 Jasenica no. 329

Meeting day and time: every Wednesday at 18:00

Mobile: 0917 915 226

Email: akjasen@gmail.com

ALFA – Pezinok

Meeting place: Hrnčiarska 44, 902 01 pezinok

Meeting day and time: odd Thursday of the month at 17:00

Mobile: 0904 329 326

Email: jozefpolacek@zoznam.sk

A-club – Piešťany

Meeting place: Jesuit Pastoral Center, Poštová 1, 921 01 Piešťany

Meeting day and time: every Thursday at 18:00

Mobile: 0908 778 663

Email: hrutka@centrum.sk

Club of abstinent families POKORA – Poprad

Meeting place: Catholic University, Embankment of John Paul II. 15, 058 01 Poprad

Meeting day and time: every Wednesday at 17:00

Mobile: 0911 875 006

Email: lemada333@gmail.com

KLUS – Poprad

Meeting place: Kino Máj, Scherffelova 15, 058 01 Poprad-Veľká

Meeting day and time: last Thursday of the month at 16:00

Mobile: 0907 920 454

Email: larisa@stonline.sk

A-club – Považská Bystrica

Meeting place: Hospital with polyclinic, Psychiatric ward, Nemocničná 986, 017 01 Považská Bystrica

Meeting day and time: first Wednesday of the month at 15:30

Mobile: 0907 705 671

Email: bslob@centrum.sk

Klub abstinujúcich pri Modrom domčeku – Považský Chlmec

Meeting place: Center for Drug Addiction Treatment, Pod Laščeky 278, 010 03 Žilina – Považský Chlmec

Meeting day and time: every Thursday at 17:30

Mobile: 0911 202 169

SPAS – Klub abstinentov Juraja Marianiho – Predná Hora

Meeting place: Klubovňa Obecného úradu, 049 01 Muráň 329

Day and time of the meeting: the first Saturday of the month at 9:00 to 12:00

Email: spas.predna.hora@centrum.sk

KAHAN – Prešov

Meeting place: Domov nádeje, Jarková 79, 080 01 Prešov

Meeting day and time: every Thursday at 16: 00-18: 00

Mobile: 0904 738 360

Email: domovnadeje@gkcharita-po.sk

KPA – Klub prešovských abstinentov – Prešov

Meeting place: Požiarnicka 17, 080 01 Prešov

Meeting day and time: every Wednesday at 16:00

Mobile: 0905 564 838

Email: harcarjakub@gmail.com

KAPP – Club of abstinent friends in Prievidza – Prievidza

Meeting place: Cultural and Social Center, F. Madvu 11, 971 03 Prievidza

Meeting day and time: every Thursday at 16:00

Mobile: 0917 330 043

Email: info@kapp.sk

SAP – Spolok abstinentov Prievidza – Prievidza

Meeting place: Priemstav, Hviezdoslavova 475/3, 971 01 Prievidza

Meeting day and time: every working Thursday at 15: 45-17: 45

Mobile: 0908 325 289

Email: sap.prievidza@gmail.com

POHODA – Revúca

Meeting place: House of Culture, Námestie slobody 14, 050 01 Revúca

Meeting day and time: every Wednesday at 17:00

Abstinent Club – Mat

Meeting place: House of Culture, Školské nám. 409/3, 906 38 Mat

Meeting day and time: every Thursday at 19:00

Email: zas1@mail.t-com.sk

RAK – Ružomberský abstinentský klub – Ružomberok

Meeting place: Central Military Hospital SNP, Psychiatric Department, Považská 1380/2, 034 01 Ružomberok

Meeting day and time: every Thursday at 16: 00-18: 00, last Saturday of the month at 9: 30-12: 00

Mobile: 0908 522 334

Email: danka.mydlova@gmail.com

KLUS – Sabinov

Meeting place: Charity House, November 17, 8, 083 01 Sabinov

Meeting day and time: second Thursday of the month

Abstinent Club – Senica

Meeting place: Záhorácke osvetové stredisko v Senici, Vajanského 19/5, 905 01 Senica

Meeting day and time: every odd week on Monday at 16:00

Email: aklub.senica@gmail.com

AK – Spišská Nová Ves

Meeting place: Štefánikovo nám. 1, 052 01 Spišská Nová Ves (meeting room, 1st floor)

Meeting day and time: every Friday at 17:00

Email: rastislav.michlik@post.sk

A-club PL Sučany – Sučany

Meeting place: Psychiatric Hospital Sučany, Rehabilitation Department, Hradiská 23, 038 52 Sučany – north

Meeting date and time: the first Tuesday of the month at 16:00

Mobile: 0902 169 291

KATO – Klub abstinujúcich Topoľčany – Topoľčany

Meeting place: Slovak Red Cross, Stummerova 327, 955 01 Topoľčany

Meeting day and time: third Monday of the month

Mobile: 0914 191 266

Email: miso1@pobox.sk

A-club Gemer – Tornaľa

Meeting place: Municipal Cultural Center, Hlavné nám. 5, 982 01 Tornaľa

Meeting day and time: last Saturday of the month at 10:00 to 14:00

Mobile: 0918 850 251

Email: info@aklubtornala.sk

KAJZT – Klub abstinentov Južného Zemplína – Trebišov

Meeting place: Psychiatric ward, Hospital with polyclinic, Ul. SNP 1079/76, 075 01 Trebišov

Day and time of the meeting: the third Thursday of the month at 16:00

Mobile: 0908 061 640

Email: jasso@nettrebisov.sk

KAT – Klub abstinentov – Trenčín

Meeting place: Palackého 9, 911 01 Trenčín

Meeting day and time: every Monday at 16:00

Mobile: 0905 700 838

Email: janvaclavzeman@azet.sk

A-club – Trnava

Meeting place: Retirement Home, Okružná 20, 917 00 Trnava

Meeting day and time: Tuesday at 17:00

Mobile: 0902 179 935

Email: gemela.gimi.vlado@gmail.com

KLUS – Trnava

Meeting place: Rybníková 15, 917 01 Trnava

Meeting day and time: every Wednesday at 17: 00-19: 00

Mobile: 0911 828 411

Email: jarko.pinkas@gmail.com

Otvorené srdce – Trnava

Meeting place: Municipal Polyclinic Trnava, 1st floor, Starohájska 2, 917 01 Trnava

Meeting day and time: every Monday at 16:00

Mobile: 0911 180 276

Email: hornyykz@wmx.sk

STROP – Stretnutia rodinných príslušníkov pri A-klube – Trnava

Meeting place: Okružná 20, 917 01 Trnava

Meeting day and time: Monday around the 20th day of the month at 17:00 to 19:00

Mobile: 0903 411 998

Email: tduranova@gmail.com

A-club – Trstená

Meeting place: Retirement Club, Malý rad, 028 01 Trstená

Meeting day and time: every Wednesday at 18:00

Mobile: 0907 146 661

Email: aklubtrstena@gmail.com

A-klub pri psychiatrickom oddelení – Trstená

Meeting place: HNsP Psychiatric Department Library, Mieru 549/16, 028 01 Trstená

Meeting day and time: second Tuesday of the month at 14:00

Tel: 043/53 07 298

Email: psychiatria@nsptrstena.sk

Nádej – Turčianske Teplice

Meeting place: Klub Nádej, Ul. Partizánska 418/4, 039 01 Turčianske Teplice

Meeting date and time: odd Wednesday at 16: 00-18: 00

Mobile: 0908 924 632

Email: piliarovamilada@centrum.sk

Abstinentský klub ZMENA – Tvrdošín

Meeting place: Farská 86/34, 027 44 Tvrdošín (1st floor)

Meeting day and time: every Thursday at 18:00

Mobile: 0905 731 900

Email: celkope@gmail.com

Abstinentský klub POHODA – Ťapešovo

Meeting place: Old school

Meeting day and time: Tuesday at 19:00

Mobile: 0944 019 339

Email: igorbubala1@gmail.com

A-club DÚHA – Veľké Zálužie

Meeting place: Psychiatric Hospital, Rínok 334, 951 35 Veľké Zálužie

Meeting day and time: last Monday of the month at 14:00

Mobile: 0907 394 952

Email: tibor1955@gmail.com

Abstinentský klub – Biela Orava – Zákamenné

Meeting place: pastoral center Zákamenné

Meeting day and time: every Thursday at 19:00

Mobile: 0915 954 927

Email: madlenak@centrum.sk

Abstinentský klub – Zbrojníky

Meeting place: Zbrojníky Cultural House

Meeting date and time: the third Friday of the month at 17:00

Mobile: 0949 074 474

Email: palinonen@gmail.com

Abstinentský klub – Nádej – Zvolen

Meeting place: University Pastoral Center, M. R. Štefánika 545/20, 960 01 Zvolen

Meeting day and time: first and third Monday of the month at 16:30

Mobile: 0907 497 322

Email: vierahaz@centrum.sk

Abstinentský klub – Dôvera – Žilina

Meeting place: Kapucínov Monastery, Jezuitská 6, 010 01 Žilina

Meeting day and time: every even Monday at 5:30 p.m.

Mobile: 0904 954 904

Email: verlik@centrum.sk

Abstinentský klub – Žilina

Meeting place: Kapucínov Monastery, Jezuitská 6, 010 01 Žilina

Meeting day and time: every Friday at 16: 00-18: 00

Mobile: 0902 756 310

Email: jpapaj@centrum.sk

The post ABSTINENT CLUBS appeared first on drogy.org.

Neurobiological research helps to explain many ambiguities regarding addictions. It has been found out that in natural situations, dopamine (a chemical or hormone associated with pleasant feelings and conditions) is released when a rewarding experience is new, better than expected or unexpected. Such release of dopamine helps the individual to remember the signals announcing the reward. Thus, when the dopamine system is over-excited as a result of drug use, attempts to repeat these effects may prevail over other important targeted activities. Activities that previously brought pleasure to the user are not attractive anymore. On the contrary, drug use brings pleasure and desire to use it repeatedly.

From a medical point of view, a person is diagnosed with drug addiction if he or she feels a strong desire to use the drug, has problems in having control under drug use in terms of quantity, but also frequency (how often he or she takes it), has mental and physical problems after as he or she does not take the drug, he/she uses more and more drugs (tolerance increases) to achieve the original effects of lower doses, neglects other pleasures and interests, and continues to take drugs despite clear evidence of obviously harmful consequences. A person is diagnosed with an addiction if he or she has three of these six symptoms in the last year. Drug addiction is diagnosed only by a psychiatrist or an addictologist. Since not all of these symptoms may be present in a drug addict (e.g. drug tolerance may not be developed), there is no completely accurate characteristic of a drug addict. However, we can say that a drug addict is strongly motivated (consciously or unconsciously) towards such behavior that has no purpose in terms of survival, while this motivation is strengthened by repeated practice (drug use) and therewith associated behavior has a significant potential to harm oneself or his/her closest family and friends.

Where is the line between drug users and drug addicts?

Drug users are often incorrectly automatically labeled as addicts. In fact, out of the total number of drug users, drug use causes major problems for a maximum of about 10% of users, and even with a smaller percentage it is possible to make a diagnosis – drug addict. The American psychiatrist N. Zinberg dealt with the issue of controlled and continuous drug use and came up with a theory based on research, which points out that not every drug use or regular usage leads directly to addiction and that every person can be at different stages of drug use.

The degree of risk of addiction on the continuum of use increases from left to right. It is not a rule that people always or exclusively move in this direction along this continuum – i.e. in the direction of gradually increasing their dose and frequency until they end up with drug addiction.

Each point can represent the beginning, the middle and the end in drug use. It is not a rule that the user has to go through all the points. For example, a person may start experimenting e.g. with marijuana, the experiment converts into regular use, then regular use with problems, and finally the person decides to abstain due to the problems associated with marijuana use.

Within the continuum of use, each of us can constantly move on these imaginary points. There is also a misunderstanding that the person who is on the far right of the continuum of use is referred to as a drug user. Among the common drug users, we also include the already mentioned experimental adolescents, occasional celebrants, but also those who use it daily, albeit in small quantities.

Zinberg’s theory suggests that most experimenters will not become regular drug users. Secondly, many people may remain occasional users of legal or illegal drugs with certain problems related to their use. And thirdly, most drug users (including those diagnosed with addiction) have had use under some type of control, at least a long period of drug use.

Why do people use drugs?

In general, people take drugs for several reasons (these can be psychological, biological, and existential):

– to feel good: Drugs can produce intense feelings of pleasure. This initial euphoria is followed by other conditions that differ from the type of drug used. For example, in case of stimulants (e.g. cocaine), high feelings is followed by feelings of strength, self-confidence and increased energy. Conversely, euphoria caused by opiates (e.g. heroin) is followed by feelings of relaxation and satisfaction.

– to feel better: Some people suffering from social anxiety, stress and depression start using drugs to feel less anxious. We can also include the need to avoid pain or find peace, to relieve from physical and mental pain – this includes pain from boredom, dissatisfaction, a feeling of difference from others or low self-esteem.

– to do things better: Some people feel the need to improve their attention at school or at work or to improve their skills in sports. Therefore, they may start or continue taking drugs such as stimulants (amphetamines, cocaine, etc.).

– need for transcendence: Substances with a psychedelic effect (especially hallucinogens and cannabinoids) can induce a state of experience of fusion and / or self-transcendence, unity with oneself and with others, with God, etc.

– curiosity and social pressure: Teenagers and adolescents are a particularly risky group, as peer pressure can be very strong. Teenagers are more likely than adults to be behave risky and audaciously in order to engage attention of their friends and show their independence from their parents and social norms.

Why do some people become addicted and some not?

The likelihood of developing addiction varies from person to person, and no single factor determines whether a person becomes addicted to drugs. In general, the more risk factors a person has, the greater the chance that drug use will lead to addiction. On the other hand, protective factors reduce this risk. Risk and protective factors can be of biogenetic, social, ethnic, anthropological and psychological origin. In the area of family relationships, a disturbed mother-child relationship has traditionally been assumed; based on recent research, attention has also begun to focus on the father-child relationship.

Risk factors

– genetic predisposition

– stress, high impulsivity, depression, anxiety, eating disorders

– personality disorders and other mental disorders

– physical, sexual or emotional abuse in childhood or other trauma

– lack of parental supervision (emotional coldness, distance, indifference)

– excessive parental care and protection

– poor communication between parents and adolescents

– addiction of another family member (usually a parent), their criminal activity

– drug experimentation

– availability of drugs in schools

– social poverty

Protective factors:

– good self-control

– supervision and support of parents

– positive relationships

What other factors increase the risk of addiction?

Early use. Although drug use at any age can lead to addiction, research shows that the sooner a person starts taking drugs, the higher the probability that is will lead to serious problems. This are due to the harmful effects that drugs have on the developing brain.

Method of use. Smoking or injecting drugs increases their addictive potential. In this way, drugs enter the brain within seconds, producing a strong rush of pleasure. However, this intense feeling can disappear within minutes. Researchers believe that this marked contrast leads some people to repeated drug use in an effort to capture a fleeting pleasant state.

Sources

CASAColumbia (2012). Addiction medicine: Closing the gap between science and practice. New York : The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia university.

Heretik, A., sr., Heretik, A., jr. (2016). Klinická psychológia. Nové Zámky : Psychoprof. ISBN 978-80-8932-224-4

Hupková I., Liberčanová K. (2012). Drogové závislosti a ich prevencia. Trnava : Pedagogická fakulta Trnavskej Univerzity. ISBN 978-80-8082-563-8

Köpetz, C. E., Lejuez, C. W., Wiers, R. W., & Kruglanski, A. W. (2013). Motivation and Self-Regulation in Addiction: A Call for Convergence. Perspectives on psychological science : a journal of the Association for Psychological Science, 8(1), 3–24. doi:10.1177/1745691612457575

NIDA. (2018). Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction. Dostupné na: https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/drug-misuse-addiction (20. 12. 2019)

The post DRUG ADDICTION appeared first on drogy.org.

Yes, addiction is treatable, addiction treatment is possible and necessary. Addiction can lead to a life debacle, an inability to act in one’s personal and social roles, and even death from addiction. Treatment saves lives as well as physical, mental and social health.

Can addiction be cured?

As with other chronic diseases, such as e.g. heart disease or asthma, treating drug addictions usually does not cure them. However, addiction can be successfully managed. Treatment allows people to deal with the devastating effects of their brain and behavioral addictions and gain control over their lives.

Does drug recurrence mean that treatment has failed?

No. The chronic nature of addiction means that some people relapse or return to drug use after trying to quit. It may be part of the process, but newer types of treatment are set to help prevent relapses. The recurrence rate for drug use is similar to other chronic diseases. If people stop following their treatment plan, relapse is likely to occur.

Treatment of chronic diseases involves a change in deep-rooted behavior, and recurrence does not mean that treatment has failed. When a person recovering from addiction relapses, it means that they must talk to their doctor to resume treatment, adjust it, or try another.

Although recurrence is a normal part of the treatment process, with some drugs it can be very dangerous – even fatal. If a person takes the amount of drug he/she used before stopping, he/she can easily overdose because his/her body is no longer used to the previous dose. An overdose occurs when a person takes an amount of the drug that causes inconvenient feelings, life-threatening symptoms or death.

What are the principles of effective treatment?

Research shows that in the treatment of opioid addiction (prescription pain medications, heroin or fentanyl), medication should come first, but it basically only includes substitution drugs, usually in combination with some form of behavioral therapy or counseling.

There are also medications available to help treat alcohol and nicotine addiction. In addition, there are drugs to help people with drug detoxification, although detoxification is not the same as treatment and it is not a sufficient method for a full recovery of a person. Detoxification alone without subsequent treatment usually leads to a resumption of drug use. You can read more about detoxification in the article below.

For people addicted to drugs such as stimulants or marijuana, there are no drugs available in Slovakia that would help with treatment, so the treatment consists of behavioral therapy. Treatment should be tailored to each patient to address their drug use patterns and drug-related health, mental and social problems.

For addiction treatment to be successful, it must be comprehensive. Addiction is a disease of body and soul. We must perceive each individual as a being, whose health and disease are involved in biological, psychological, ecological and social factors (it is a bio-psycho-eco-social model of addiction).

Where and how to undergo treatment?

If you decide to be treated for drug addiction, you need confirmation from a psychiatrist that you have been diagnosed with addiction syndrome. Then you have a choice of several different services provided by medical facilities. However, information on treatment options or safer use can also be provided by non-medical facilities.

Contact and counseling centers and field programs, Drug addicts anonymous

Contact centers focus mainly on the prevention of the harmful consequences of drug use, trying to mitigate the impact and harm caused by drugs (harm reduction approach).

These centers have programs to replace used syringes and needles with sterile ones to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, especially HIV and hepatitis B and C. In addition, they provide information on safer drug use, offer advice, support or tests on diseases transmitted via blood or sexual infections and relevant treatment. Abroad, they also offer drug treatment, rehabilitation facilities or they operate injection rooms. Apart from that, they provide social and legal advice (e.g. assistance with document processing, accompanying to a doctor), consultations and motivational interviews in case of interest in a treatment or a mediation of treatment.

Field programs take place directly in the natural environment of people who use drugs – outside the contact center. As in contact centers, social workers in the field provide information on safer use and treatment options or advise clients on his / her social and legal problems.

Civic organization Odyseus operates the K2 Center – contact with the community and also provides field social work in the streets of Bratislava.

For some addicted users who, for various reasons, do not want to be treated in healthcare facilities, meetings of Anonymous Addicts association may be the solution. Anonymous Addicts are a non-profit community or society of men and women for whom drugs have become a major problem. They consist of healing addicts who meet regularly to help each other stay clean. Membership is open to anyone addicted, regardless of the drug used or their combination.

Detox

Detox precedes the treatment of addiction; it is the cleansing of the body from the substance used. Detox is a common term for detoxication and detoxification.

Detoxication is the mastering of acute intoxication – it should rid the body of addictive substances; unpleasant withdrawal symptoms are reduced. In some situations, it is necessary to use pharmacological agents.

Detoxification is a treatment method that should stop drug use, reduce withdrawal symptoms and the risk of drug damage. Detoxification takes place in detoxification units or centers. If this method is used, prescription drugs with a similar effect to the drug will be used, which will make it possible to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Detox can be in an outpatient and inpatient form. In the outpatient form, you go to a center for the treatment of drug addictions or a psychiatric outpatient clinic or hospital. In addition to outpatient drug detoxification, this program also includes mandatory participation on psychotherapeutic activities, whether individual or group or didactotherapy. It usually lasts from 7 to 30 days. An inpatient form means that you are directly at a drug treatment center or psychiatric hospital. It usually takes about 14 days.

Treatment

The treatment of drug addiction itself can take the form of outpatient treatment, institutional care or a day hospital.

Outpatient care

Outpatient treatment takes place without being excluded from your own environment. You regularly go to the facility where the treatment is provided. The length of treatment and the number of visits may vary from facility to facility, but should be based on your agreement between the therapist and the therapist. Outpatient treatment includes individual therapy (interviews with a psychologist, psychiatrist, therapist) and group therapy (group interviews with others under the supervision of a therapist). You can think about it if you have a suitable family and social background that offers support and motivation in your efforts. The treatment can last up to one year, but at least three months, and the facility should be visited at least two to three times a week.

The program includes group therapy, interviews with therapists, counseling and various hobby activities. Family or partner therapy is important because the people around you are directly affected by the situation and the cooperation of family and friends is an important factor influencing the success of the treatment.

The treatment is fully covered by the health insurance company, even if you are a debtor on health insurance. In this case, you may need to enter into a repayment schedule agreement with your health insurance company. However, a valid health insurance card is all you need to start treatment; the agreement can only be concluded during treatment.

Institutional care

During institutional care you are staying in a protected environment of an institutional treatment facility. This means that you are treated outside home all the time with limited contact with loved ones. An important component of treatment is a drug-free environment and a regular daily routine in these facilities. Adherence to certain rules is required, the violation of which is sanctioned. This regimen treatment ensures regularity and the development of self-discipline.

While staying in the facility, you have the opportunity to clarify your attitudes to the drug, solve some problems and improve your communication skills and stress management methods. An important part of the stay is psychotherapy (especially group therapy), occupational therapy and relaxation activities (exercises, watching movies, work activities, music therapy, art therapy).

According to the length of stay, treatment is divided into short-term (up to 2 months), medium-term (from 2 to 6 months) and long-term (from 6 months to 1 year).

This type of treatment is suitable for you if you are unable to abstain in your original environment.

The treatment is fully covered by the health insurance company, even if you are a debtor or a debtor in health insurance. Similar to outpatient care, a valid health insurance card is enough to start treatment.

Day care centers

Day care centers are a form of outpatient care. You come to the center every day, the program usually runs in the facility from morning to afternoon, then you return home (unlike inpatient treatment or therapeutic communities, where you stay all day and night). This form of care is offered by some hospital psychiatric wards as a continuation of treatment after hospital / inpatient treatment.

Resocialization and aftercare

After the end of inpatient treatment, it is sometimes appropriate to involve follow-up care – aftercare programs. You live in a resocialization facility or in a house halfway after treatment. Very often it is about life in a family like community. As during institutional care, you will have the opportunity to experience individual and group therapy or work and social counseling during resocialization.

The goal of resocialization is to support you in your decision to abstain, help you overcome difficulties and integrate into everyday life.

Aftercare programs help to solve various mental problems that may occur, difficulties in relationships and all problems that remained hidden during treatment. Aftercare also helps to cope with situations for recurrent users who have not been able to abstain and have tried the drug again so that they do not fall into addiction again. Resocialization facility programs are not covered by the health insurance company.

Substitution treatment

Substitution treatment is a method of treatment in which the drug originally used is replaced by another substance with similar effects, the use of which is associated with lower risks. This is a different application, which replaces injecting the drug with less harmful methods (tablets, drinks). Substitution treatment is an indefinite maintenance therapy that lasts as long as the person is able to abstain also from the substitution substance.

Currently, in Slovakia it is possible to undergo methadone substitution treatment from heroin addiction at the Center for Drug Addiction Treatment in Bratislava and Banská Bystrica. Methadone is given as a liquid. Its effect lasts for about 24 hours, so it is necessary to visit the center daily. Before starting this type of treatment, you need confirmation from your psychiatrist.

Another form of heroin substitution treatment is buprenorphine treatment. This synthetic opioid is administered in the form of tablets. There are two types of buprenorphine-containing medicines available on the market: Subutex and Suboxone. While Subutex contains only buprenorphine, which is often misused by users, Suboxone (or Bupensanduo) also contains naloxone. It counteracts the effects of opioids when Suboxone is taken intravenously. Issuing of these medicines is subject to a special prescription.

Methadone treatment is fully covered by the health insurance company also for health insurance debtors, self-payers pay € 5 for one bottle of medicine. Buprenorphine treatment is not covered by the health insurance company. The 7-day pack (one tablet per day) costs approximately € 5.50 to € 15, depending on the amount of active substance in the medicine.

For more information about specific options and facilities in Slovakia and the availability of medicines, do not hesitate to contact us.

Sources

NIDA. (2018). Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction. Dostupné na: https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/treatment-recovery (20. 12. 2019)

www.anonymninarkomani.sk

www.substitucni-lecba.cz/substitucni-lecba

www.cpldz.sk/liecba/ambulantna-liecba/

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Method of transmission

The most common way of transmitting the disease to another person is through unprotected sexual intercourse (vaginal, oral, the riskiest is anal). Men who have sex with other men are at greatest risk. HIV can also infect a baby from the mother during pregnancy, especially during childbirth. Another possible way is through transfusion of contaminated blood, blood products or contaminated tissue. Particularly at risk are drug users who share contaminated needles and syringes are particular. You can also become infected through tattoo or piercing tools.

The course of HIV

The course of HIV infection is most often divided into 4 stages. The time required to move from one stage to another varies from person to person. It is also not possible to describe the stages and expect that HIV infection will proceed as described in everyone. Although it is not possible to accurately describe the course of infection, the following description may help to understand the course of HIV infection up to AIDS.

After the HIV virus enters the human body, it begins to settle in the cells. People are considered infectious (that is, able to transmit HIV to another person) immediately after infection. People can look completely healthy for many years, even though their body is already changing. That’s why regular testing is the best way to find out your HIV status.

Stage 1 – primary / acute infection and seroconversion

In the first week or two, the HIV virus tries to get inside the cells of our immune system. The body makes antibodies against HIV to fight the virus – a process called seroconversion. It usually lasts from 6 to 12 weeks. Already during this period, the infected person can transmit the infection to other people.

During this period, some people feel fine, respectively the intensity of the symptoms is so low that they do not notice anything unusual. The person himself looks and feels quite healthy and even his/her partner does not recognize anything about him/her. About 70% of people experience non-specific flu-like symptoms (fever, swollen nodes, night sweats, shivering). Only 20% of them feel such difficulties that they visit a doctor. However, usually the symptoms do not lead to suspicion of HIV infection. HIV antibody tests performed at this stage (if seroconversion is not yet complete) will not confirm infection because the body has not yet generated enough antibodies to be shown in the test. This situation is also described as a “false negative” result. You must wait at least 12 weeks after the risky behavior.

Stage 2 – asymptomatic stage

This stage lasts for several years and is characterized by the fact that the infected person does not show major symptoms. During this time, there is no indication that the person is ill, except for swollen lymph nodes. However, the healthy feeling does not mean that nothing is happening in the body. The HIV virus, on the other hand, is very active, trying to get into most human cells, constantly multiplying and penetrating further and further. Usually, this period lasts about 8 to 10 years. However, everyone is different and therefore the length of the asymptomatic stage is very individual. For some, the HIV virus may progress slower, for others, unfortunately, faster. People who know about their HIV status are under the care of a doctor who monitors CD4 cell counts (or CD4 cells, sometimes also T-lymphocytes or T-helper lymphocytes, are white blood cells that organize the immune system’s defenses against bacterial, fungal or viral infections) and viral load. These two data are important in determining the progress of the infection. Early diagnosis of HIV infection and effective treatment allow people living with HIV to take control of the infection before the symptoms of HIV infection appear. If the treatment is successful, the infection will not even proceed to the next stage. It does not mean that a person has been healed. It is still necessary to monitor the infection by a doctor, but a person can lead a full life.

Stage 3 – symptomatic stage

At this stage, the immune system is exposed to the HIV virus for a long time. People begin to experience the first signs of HIV infection (e.g.: fatigue, night sweats, mild weight loss, skin infections, herpes diseases). This stage can last for varying lengths – it is affected by many factors (eg: the rate at which the virus multiplies, whether you are being treated or have just learned about your HIV status), but the average duration of the symptom stage is 5 to 7 years.

As the disease progresses, the symptoms intensify and the immune system becomes increasingly severely damaged. Associated (opportunistic) infections are beginning to show. These infections could be overcome by a person infected with HIV with weakened immunity with great difficulty. Typical infections that are affected and that affect HIV infection are tuberculosis and hepatitis B and C.

Stage 4 – late stage

AIDS occurs when the immune system is already severely damaged by the long-term action and multiplication of the HIV virus in the blood. This stage is diagnosed on the basis of several criteria:

• very low CD4 cell count (less than 200 in 1 mm³ of blood)
• long-term high values of viral load
• the presence of one or more associated (opportunistic) infections

In the AIDS stage, the immune system is severely damaged, and the accompanying symptoms of an AIDS outbreak include weight loss, brain tumors, and other health problems.

Diagnosis and prevention

The most effective way of prevention is to use a male or female condom for all forms of sex and to use your own syringes and water if you are using drugs by injection. At least 3 months of risky behavior are required to diagnose HIV, until which no antibodies have been formed in the body to confirm or refute the presence of HIV. HIV testing is provided anonymously by the outpatient departments of the National HIV / AIDS Reference Center or the Regional Public Health Offices.

There are also over-the-counter diagnostic tests that can be purchased at pharmacies and other locations. These make it possible to detect antibodies to the HIV virus within 15 to 20 minutes of oral fluid or blood samples. However, the tests are intended for healthcare professionals, so it is best to ask your doctor for testing. You can also find out about the possibility of testing from field workers of the civic organization Odyseus or directly at the Center K2 – Contact with the community.

You can obtain more information about the symptoms, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of HIV and AIDS on our website, which deals exclusively with this topic: https://www.hivaids.sk

Sources

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The hepatitis C virus cannot be described as a single virus, in fact it is a large family of several viruses. They are divided into 11 genotypes, of which genotype 1 (HCV1), 2 (HCV2) and 3 (HCV3) exist in Slovakia. Each of these genotypes has several subtypes, and each subtype has its own quasi-strains. It is estimated that there are several thousand different quasi-strains of HCV. This diversity of HCV is why there is no HCV vaccine. At the same time, it means that you can become repeatedly infected with new types of HCV viruses. This worsens the health condition and may cause treatment complications.

Method of transmission

The most at-risk group are injection drug users and those who share contaminated needles and syringes, water for injection, and their injectable devices that come into contact with foreign blood. A If the mother is not treated, the baby can be infected from its mother during childbirth (risk is 5-15%) and pregnancy. Another possible transmission way is a transfusion of contaminated blood, blood products or contaminated tissue. An uncommon mode of transmission is unprotected sexual intercourse, the riskiest of which is anal sex, which has a high risk of injury to the inner wall of the anal canal, and sex during menstruation. You can also become infected with non-sterile tattoo or piercing tools, using common toothbrushes and razor blades. The method of transmission is unknown in 30% of cases.

The course of HCV

The disease can be undetected for a long time, as it has an inconspicuous, mild or even asymptomatic course. There are no specific symptoms in the acute phase of the disease, only about 10% of people have an increase in yellowing of the skin and scleras, dark urine, fatigue for no apparent cause, loss of appetite, nausea, joint and muscle pain and itching, anxiety, depression, tenderness areas under the right ribbed arch. The course of the disease is significantly worsened by alcohol consumption.

The chronic phase develops in about 80% of untreated infected people, of which about 20% develop cirrhosis within 20 years – scarring and hardening of the liver with a high risk of liver failure and liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma).

Treatment

It is treated with antiviral medicines in the form of tablets. It is an interferon-free treatment that has excellent tolerability in patients and high effectiveness of complete cure. The tablets are taken for 12 weeks and the patient does not have to be hospitalized.

The insurance company reimburses relatively expensive treatment if the patient demonstrably abstains from drugs or undergoes substitution treatment and does not have debts on health insurance. Until recently, hepatitis C was treated with interferon injections and ribavirin with significant side effects.

The introduction of disposable medical supplies, the exchange of syringes for people who inject drugs and other measures have significantly contributed to reducing HCV infection in the population. Caution should also be devoted in tattoos and piercings as a possible route of infection if the use of disposable needles is neglected. People living with HCV should only use their own hygiene products (razor, towel, toothbrush, etc.) and should use male or female condoms during sexual intercourse, which reduce the risk of blood and sexually transmitted infections.

If you don’t have the option to use your own sterile drug needles, there are a few simple options for disinfection:

A) Use of bleach.

1. Wash the needle or material in cold water.

2. Draw the bleach into the syringe and allow it to act and spray for 30 seconds. Repeat 2 times. Soak the material (spoon) in bleach for 2 minutes.

3. Thoroughly wash items from bleach to avoid itchy feelings.

B) Cooking in boiling water for 15 minutes.

C) Singing the spoon with lighter and clean with an alcohol swab.

D) Cleaning with an alcohol swab.

E) Washing in cold water to help remove at least some of the blood. Do not use hot water as blood clots. Warning! HCV virus can survive in a syringe, spoon, filter, tourniquet, table or stairs, or in a container of shared water for up to 63 days. Disinfect even if you can’t see the blood. An amount that is not visible to the eye is sufficient for the transmission of HCV. It is always better to do at least something than nothing! Remember that you can become infected with HCV again, even if you already have the virus in you. There are many types of them and re-infection worsens your health.

Sources

Lam, N.C., Gotsch, P.B., Langan, R.C. Caring for pregnant women and newborns with hepatitis B or C.

American family physician. s. 1225-1229. PMID 21121533

Maheswari, A., Ray, S., Thuluvath, PJ. Acute hepatitis 

C. Lancet. s. 321-332. DOI:10.1016/S0140-6736(08)61116-2

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