Addiction Recovery

Our Services

Addiction Recovery & Substance Abuse Treatment

Substance use disorders (addictions) are treatable medical conditions where drug or alcohol use becomes compulsive and causes significant problems. Addiction changes the brain’s reward system (often involving dopamine), making it hard to stop using despite harmful consequences. Dr. Naeem Aftab offers comprehensive addiction recovery services, both at his Lahore clinic and through online consultations across Pakistan. He guides patients safely through detoxification, therapy, and long-term rehabilitation.

Common Symptoms Addressed

Key signs of substance use disorder include:

Cravings and Loss of Control: Intense urges or cravings to use the substance, often using larger amounts or for longer than intended.
Neglecting Responsibilities: Spending much time obtaining, using or recovering from the substance; giving up work, school, social activities or hobbies because of use.
Continued Use Despite Harm: Persisting in use even when it causes physical health problems, strained relationships or legal/financial trouble.
Tolerance: Needing increasingly more of the substance to achieve the same effect.
Withdrawal Symptoms: Experiencing unpleasant physical or emotional symptoms (such as nausea, shaking, sweating, anxiety, insomnia) when not using.
Unsuccessful Attempts to Quit: Repeated failed efforts to cut down or stop using, often accompanied by guilt or anxiety.

Evaluation and Medical Stabilization: First, a full medical and psychiatric evaluation is done. This identifies substances used and any co-existing mental health issues. If heavy dependence is present (e.g., severe alcohol or benzodiazepine addiction), Dr. Aftab arranges a medically supervised detox.
Therapy and Counseling: Counseling is central to recovery. Dr. Aftab provides individual psychotherapy to explore underlying triggers and develop coping strategies. Cognitive-behavioral therapy helps modify thought patterns and behaviors related to substance use. He may also involve family or couples therapy to repair relationships and build a support network.
Rehabilitation Programs: Depending on the case, Dr. Aftab may recommend: Outpatient Treatment: Patients attend regular therapy sessions while living at home or a sober living environment. Sessions can be in person or via telehealth. This allows flexibility while maintaining professional support. Inpatient Rehabilitation: For more severe addictions, a residential rehab program may be advised. These programs offer a structured environment away from daily stressors, with 24/7 care. Research shows that intensive, focused rehab can be very effective.
Aftercare and Support: Long-term recovery involves ongoing support. Dr. Aftab helps create a relapse prevention plan, which may include support groups (such as Alcoholics or Narcotics Anonymous), lifestyle changes, and coping skills training. He schedules regular follow-ups to monitor progress and adjust the plan as needed. With support and structure, the risk of relapse decreases.

Safe Withdrawal: Medically supervised detox reduces risks (like seizures or dehydration) and ensures you are comfortable during this difficult phase.
Holistic Care: Dr. Aftab addresses the whole person. He treats any co-occurring mental health conditions (such as depression or anxiety) that often accompany addiction, instead of focusing on substance use alone.
Higher Success Rates: Combining therapy and medication greatly improves recovery chances. The CDC emphasizes that “with effective treatment, recovery is possible” for everyone with SUD
Reduced Stigma: Working with a psychiatrist helps you overcome guilt or shame. You learn to view addiction as a medical condition, not a moral failing.
Relapse Prevention: Professional treatment teaches how to recognize triggers and cope with cravings, greatly reducing the risk of a full relapse.
Long-Term Support: After the intensive phase, Dr. Aftab remains available for ongoing counseling. This long-term support helps maintain sobriety and build a healthier lifestyle

About US

Dr. Aftab’s Qualifications and Approach

Dr. Aftab is a veteran psychiatrist well-versed in addiction treatment. He has over 30 years of clinical experience and is specifically recognized for his work in drug abuse and addiction. Trained internationally and locally, he understands both advanced therapies and cultural factors in Pakistan.

He provides a non-judgmental, supportive environment. Patients note that Dr. Aftab is empathetic and respectful. He listens to each person’s story, involving families as appropriate. When needed, he collaborates with specialized rehab programs and medical teams to ensure you receive comprehensive care tailored to your situation.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I have an addiction?

Key signs include intense cravings, loss of control (using more or longer than intended), and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using. Also, notice if you spend a lot of time getting or recovering from use, or if you’ve tried and failed to quit. If these sound like your situation, a professional assessment is advised.

What treatments are available?

Addiction treatment typically involves counseling and behavioral therapycombined with medical management if needed. In practice, this can mean detoxification with medical support, cognitive-behavioral therapy, support groups, and possibly medications for cravings/withdrawal. Dr. Aftab will tailor the program to your needs.

Will I have to experience withdrawal on my own?

No. If you go through detox, it will be supervised. Medications can be given to ease withdrawal symptoms and make the process safer. You will be monitored by medical staff during this phase.

Can I receive treatment online?

Many aspects of addiction counseling can be done via telehealth. Especially after initial detox, follow-up therapy and support meetings can often be attended by video. This is convenient if you live in Karachi, Lahore or other cities.

How long is the recovery process?

Initial detox lasts a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the substance. Rehabilitation or therapy can continue for months. Full recovery is an ongoing journey with aftercare and support, patients can maintain sobriety for life. Everyone’s timeline is different.

Get Started

Appointment & Contact

Scheduling an appointment with Dr. Naeem Aftab is easy and confidential. Use the contact information below or our online portal (calendar integration coming soon) to secure a session.