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The Faculty of Addictions is concerned with the assessment and
treatment of people with complex medical and social needs arising
out of Addictions or addictive behaviour (this may include
gambling).
The substances may include alcohol, illicit drugs, prescribed or
over-the-counter medication, and volatile solvents. There are a
range of treatment options, from advice and information to
psychological and pharmacological treatments which may include drug
substitution or detoxification regimes.
Dealing with patient needs may involve wider aspects of
healthcare such as GPs, hospital-based specialists in liver
disease, HIV, mental health, etc. Social problems, legal problems,
housing and employment may also require help; thus we work in teams
with other professionals and disciplines.
Elevator Pitch
Through broad consultation among its members, the Faculty has
developed the following brief description of the role of an
Addictions Psychiatrist.
“We are medical doctors who have completed extensive training in
psychiatry (including the use of mental health legislation) and
addiction. In combining these skills, we have unique
expertise in the management of addiction problems in complex cases,
particularly co-morbid mental health problems.
Our extensive knowledge extends to all aspects of addiction
including individual brain mechanisms, behaviour, and its overall
effect on the family, society and the economy. Combined with
excellent communication skills, this enables us to offer a holistic
approach that considers how biological, psychological and social
factors impact on a person’s life and recovery journey.
We are the clinical lead for addiction teams and bear the
ultimate clinical responsibility for the people we see. Our
training has prepared us for formal leadership roles enabling us to
take on senior management positions within addiction teams, and to
provide consultation on issues of service development, clinical
governance, commissioning, public health, interpretation of
research findings, training and evidence based practice.”
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