Are There Certified Alcohol Rehabilitation Centers in Taiwan? - Psychiatry

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Are there officially recognized and qualified alcohol rehabilitation centers in Taiwan?


Hello Dr.
Tang: My uncle has a history of alcohol consumption for several decades.
Previously, he would only drink a few glasses, but in the past year or two, he has been getting drunk every day and not coming home! He is becoming increasingly emaciated, and his skin has a yellowish tint.
Recently, we took him to the hospital, and the doctor said he shows signs of mild cirrhosis.
Fortunately, it was detected early, and with appropriate treatment, he can recover his health.
However, our family is concerned that once he leaves the hospital, he might relapse and continue drinking.
Therefore, I would like to ask Dr.
Tang if there are any formal and qualified alcohol rehabilitation centers in Taiwan? If not, are there similar institutions that can help my uncle overcome his alcohol addiction? Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions! Wishing you good health!

yehhi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/06/04

Dr. Tang Xinbei reply Psychiatry


Dear friend,
It seems that your uncle is struggling with alcohol addiction, and he has reached the stage of alcoholic cirrhosis, which typically occurs after about five years of heavy drinking.
He appears unable to control his drinking, causing significant concern among your family that he may resume drinking shortly after being discharged from the hospital.

Currently, there are no formal and certified alcohol rehabilitation centers in Taiwan.
Most general hospitals offer short-term alcohol withdrawal services, focusing primarily on acute withdrawal treatment.
However, larger psychiatric hospitals, such as Taipei City Hospital, Kaohsiung City Hospital, Caotun Psychiatric Hospital, and the Military Beitou Hospital, have specialized addiction treatment or detoxification departments that provide more comprehensive services, including follow-up psychological counseling in addition to acute withdrawal treatment.
Some religious organizations, such as the Christian Dawn Society, the House of Love (in Hualien), and the Grace House (in Pingtung), offer medium to long-term residential addiction services, although they do not provide medical detoxification treatment.

Recovery from addiction is a long journey, and individuals struggling with alcohol dependence often find themselves repeatedly trying to quit but falling back into old habits.
This process requires not only strong motivation but also continuous learning and change.
In addition to physical detoxification, psychological support is also essential for overcoming addiction.

You can search online for relevant information, as the websites of the aforementioned hospitals may provide additional resources.
If needed, you may also seek consultation at our hospital.
Although we do not have a formal addiction treatment department, we do have a specialized medical team that offers comprehensive services.
Wishing you peace and joy!

Reply Date: 2003/06/04

More Info


In Taiwan, the issue of alcohol addiction is a significant public health concern, especially given the alarming rise in alcohol consumption and its associated health risks, such as liver disease. Your uncle's situation is indeed serious, and it's commendable that you and your family are seeking help for him.
To address your question, while Taiwan does not have dedicated, certified alcohol rehabilitation centers in the same way some other countries do, there are various facilities and services available that can assist individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. Most hospitals in Taiwan, particularly those with psychiatric departments, offer short-term alcohol detoxification services. However, these services primarily focus on acute withdrawal management rather than long-term rehabilitation.

For more specialized care, larger psychiatric hospitals such as Taipei City Psychiatric Hospital, Kaohsiung Municipal Kaohsiung Hospital, and others have addiction treatment departments. These facilities provide not only detoxification but also follow-up psychological counseling and support, which are crucial for long-term recovery.
In addition to hospital-based services, there are also community-based organizations and religious groups that offer support for individuals with alcohol dependency. For instance, organizations like the Christian Morning Star Association and the Love Home in Hualien provide medium to long-term residential treatment programs. However, it is important to note that these programs may not include medical detoxification services, so they are more suitable for individuals who have already undergone detoxification and are seeking ongoing support.

The journey to recovery from alcohol addiction is often long and challenging. It requires a strong motivation to change, as well as continuous learning and adaptation. Psychological support is as important as physical detoxification, as many individuals face underlying issues such as anxiety, depression, or trauma that contribute to their addiction.
Family support plays a crucial role in the recovery process. Encouraging your uncle to participate in support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), can provide him with a community of individuals who understand his struggles and can offer encouragement and accountability.
In summary, while Taiwan may not have formal, certified alcohol rehabilitation centers, there are numerous resources available, including hospital services and community organizations, that can help your uncle on his path to recovery. It is essential to approach this process with patience and understanding, as recovery is often not linear and may involve setbacks. Engaging with healthcare professionals who specialize in addiction can provide your family with the guidance and support needed to navigate this difficult journey.
If you are looking for specific facilities or organizations, I recommend reaching out to local hospitals or searching online for addiction support services in your area. Your uncle's health and well-being are paramount, and seeking help is a significant first step towards recovery.

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