Addiction
Addiction and De-addiction Treatment in Kathmandu: Alcohol, Tobacco and Drugs
Addiction is a health condition, not a moral failing. Alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, opioids and sedative tablets can all cause dependence, and quitting alone is often very hard and sometimes unsafe. Confidential medical and psychological help greatly improves the chance of recovery, for the person and for the family.
Key takeaways
- Dependence changes the brain's reward and control systems, so willpower alone is rarely enough.
- Stopping heavy alcohol or sedative tablets suddenly can be dangerous. Seek medical advice before quitting.
- Treatment combines assessment, counselling, sometimes medicine, and family support, and relapse is a common step, not a failure.
- Care is confidential and non-judgemental.
What addiction (dependence) is
Dependence means a person has lost control over using a substance and continues despite harm to health, work, money or relationships. Tolerance (needing more) and withdrawal (feeling unwell when stopping) are common. In Nepali: मदिरा लत, धूम्रपान, लागूपदार्थ दुर्व्यसन.
Signs of a problem
- Using more, or for longer, than intended, or being unable to cut down.
- Spending a lot of time obtaining, using or recovering from the substance.
- Cravings, and withdrawal symptoms such as shaking, sweating, anxiety, poor sleep or nausea.
- Missing work, study or family duties, or hiding use.
- Continuing despite health, legal or relationship problems.
Common substances
- Alcohol: the most common, with serious effects on liver, heart, brain, mood and family life.
- Tobacco and nicotine: cigarettes, chewing tobacco and other forms cause dependence and long-term disease.
- Cannabis, opioids, sedative and sleeping tablets and stimulants: each carries its own risks, including psychosis, overdose and dependence.
Why safe withdrawal matters
Suddenly stopping heavy alcohol use, or long-term sedative or sleeping tablets, can cause seizures, confusion and other dangerous problems. Do not stop abruptly on your own. Speak to a doctor first, and if someone has fits, severe shaking, hallucinations or confusion after stopping, call 102 and go to an emergency department.
Assessment
The psychiatrist asks, without judgement, what is used, how much and for how long, past attempts to stop, health, mood and safety, and may arrange blood tests. Depression, anxiety and other conditions often accompany addiction and are treated at the same time.
Treatment
- Counselling: motivational approaches, CBT and relapse-prevention skills to manage cravings and triggers.
- Medical support: supervised withdrawal when needed, and for some substances medicines that reduce cravings or protect against relapse.
- Treating other conditions such as depression, anxiety or insomnia.
- Family support: guidance for families on responding without blame, and joining sessions when the person agrees.
- Long-term follow-up: recovery takes time, and slips can be handled without giving up.
For families
Avoid shaming, threats and hiding or paying for substances. Express care, set clear and calm limits, and encourage a medical visit. You are welcome to speak to us for guidance even before the person is ready.
How we help
Our psychiatrists provide confidential assessment, counselling and medical guidance for alcohol, tobacco and drug use, and will tell you honestly if a higher level of care is needed. See addiction and de-addiction counselling or book a private consultation, in person or online.
Frequently asked questions
Can someone be treated without their agreement?
Lasting recovery depends on the person's own motivation, so consent matters. Families can ask a doctor how to encourage the first step, and in emergencies such as overdose or severe withdrawal medical care comes first.
How long does recovery take?
It varies. Withdrawal may last days to weeks, but staying well is a longer process of months and often years, with follow-up. Setbacks are common and can be managed.
Is quitting alcohol suddenly dangerous?
It can be for people who drink heavily every day. Sudden stopping may cause seizures and confusion, so talk to a doctor before quitting and do not do it alone.
Is treatment confidential?
Yes. Your information is not shared with family, employers or others without your permission, except in the rare case of serious risk or where the law requires it.
Further reading
Independent sources on this topic. They did not write this page and do not endorse this clinic.
- AlcoholWorld Health Organization
- Tobacco and nicotineWorld Health Organization
- Alcohol-use disorderNHS (UK)
This guide is general information and does not replace advice from a doctor. If you are worried about your health or someone's safety, seek medical help.
In an emergency: Nepal Police 100 · Ambulance 102 · Suicide prevention helpline 1166. Outside Nepal, call your local emergency number.