“The course of treatment in a rehabilitation department greatly reduces the possibility that the patient will start taking drugs again,” said Ravshan Alihodjaev, Deputy Chief Physician of the National Drug Treatment Center. “We have patients who have been successfully treated by abstinence syndrome, and consciously decided to stop taking drugs.”

In this office they treat consciousness and state of mind instead of body. Medications are not used here. The principal methods of treatment are psychotherapy, occupational therapy, halotrope breathing (rest while listening to rhythmic and loud music), tours, and explanatory work. The task of physicians is to convince the patient that there is a better life without drugs.

The art therapy, during which patients are invited to draw paintings, allows doctors to follow how minds of patients change. Typically, black dominates in the paintings of those who just came to the office. In the meantime, dark colors change to bright and warm colors and the paintings carry a message that the patient is ready for a new life.

“The rehabilitation has its own hotline,” emphasized Ravshan Alihodjaev. “It is important for discharged patients and their families. In case of any complications they can always get the advice of qualified professionals at this number.”