Reviewed by: Askar Sarsenbayev, MD, addiction medicine physician · updated 6 Nov 2026
Key facts
- ICD-10 code
- F11–F19
- Who provides care
- A psychiatrist-narcologist (addiction specialist), with a psychotherapist if needed
- Format
- Video consultation; relatives can take part
- Duration
- Initial consultation takes 30–60 minutes; follow-up sessions are scheduled as planned
- Confidentiality
- Medical confidentiality under the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System”
- When it’s urgent
- Signs of overdose, seizures, psychosis, or suicidal thoughts — call 103 or 112
- Outcome
- An assessment of the condition, a clear treatment pathway, and guidance for the family
What you should know
In everyday speech, “drug addiction” refers to dependence syndrome caused by psychoactive substances, which ICD-10 describes under codes F11–F19 depending on the type of substance: opioids, cannabinoids, stimulants, synthetic drugs, and others. The disease is marked by an overwhelming craving, loss of control over use, growing tolerance, and continued use despite obvious harm to a person’s health, relationships, and social standing.
The first consultation is an important step that people often put off because of fear of exposure, shame, or doubt that help is even possible. The online format lowers these barriers: you can talk to a doctor from home without giving your full name. An online consultation with an addiction specialist in Zhitikara at Psychiatry Online helps you understand how serious the situation is, learn about treatment options, and get a concrete action plan for the patient or their family without waiting for things to get worse.
When to See an Addiction Specialist About Drug Use
- regular use of psychoactive substances that is hard to stop
- changes in behavior: secrecy, sudden mood swings, pulling away from loved ones
- loss of interest in school, work, and former hobbies
- money problems, debts, or money and belongings disappearing from home
- withdrawal signs when the substance is not available: restlessness, pain, insomnia
- using drugs in situations that put life or health at risk
- wanting to stop using after unsuccessful attempts to quit on your own
If heavy drinking has lasted more than two or three days, or there is shaking, vomiting, blood-pressure spikes or insomnia, you need a doctor rather than stopping alone. An online consultation is free and helps assess the risks before a visit. For seizures, confusion or hallucinations call 103 or 112.
How Dependence on Psychoactive Substances Develops
Psychoactive substances act on the brain’s neurotransmitter systems, above all the reward system, producing an intense feeling of pleasure or relief. With repeated use, the brain adapts: its natural sensitivity to pleasure decreases, cravings grow stronger, and stopping the substance causes withdrawal symptoms. How quickly dependence develops varies depending on the substance and the individual characteristics of the person.
The risk of developing dependence is increased by a hereditary predisposition, mental disorders, childhood psychological trauma, chronic stress, social isolation, and an environment where drug use is considered normal. Addiction is not a moral choice or a lack of willpower. International health organizations regard it as a chronic disease that requires medical and psychosocial care.
How the Online Consultation Works
The consultation takes place over a secure video connection, and you can choose a convenient time, including at night. The doctor asks about the types of substances, how often and how they are used, for how long, previous treatment attempts, and any physical or mental illnesses. It helps to prepare a list of current medications and any medical records in advance. If relatives are the ones reaching out, the doctor goes through the situation in detail and advises them on how to start a conversation with their loved one.
Detoxification for severe withdrawal, lab tests, and a physical examination cannot be done online. If there are signs of overdose — slowed breathing, loss of consciousness, or seizures — call 103 or 112 immediately. Acute psychosis or a high risk to life calls for hospital admission, and when needed, the doctor arranges an in-person appointment or a home visit in Zhitikara.
How we help
Diagnostic assessment
During the consultation, the doctor assesses the severity of the addiction, the presence of withdrawal, any co-occurring mental disorders, and physical complications. Standardized clinical interviews and questionnaires are used. The results of the assessment determine the choice between outpatient treatment, inpatient detoxification, and a rehabilitation program, and also help plan the next steps.
Medication treatment
For some types of addiction, medications are used to ease withdrawal and reduce cravings. The choice depends on the substance, the person’s health, and coexisting illnesses; medications are used only as prescribed by a doctor, and the prescribing procedure is governed by the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the requirements for an in-person examination. Medications are discussed by drug class, without one-size-fits-all regimens.
Psychotherapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and contingency management are among the most thoroughly studied psychological approaches to addiction. They help people recognize triggers, cope with cravings, and build a life without substances. Most psychotherapy sessions can be held online, which makes it easier to keep them regular.
Rehabilitation and support
Once acute symptoms have resolved, many patients benefit from a rehabilitation program, either residential or outpatient. It includes group and individual therapy, rebuilding social skills, and relapse prevention. Mutual support groups and family support play an important role in helping to maintain the result.
Myths and facts
MythDrug addiction can’t be cured
FactAddiction is a chronic disease, but that does not mean the situation is hopeless. Many people achieve lasting remission with comprehensive treatment. As with other chronic illnesses, regular follow-up and a willingness to return to treatment if things get worse are what matter.
MythYou just need to stop using
FactStopping certain substances abruptly on your own can bring on severe withdrawal. Besides, without addressing the causes of the addiction, the risk of relapse is high. That is why a doctor’s assessment and a treatment plan are important.
MythSeeing an addiction specialist means being put on a registry
FactWith an anonymous request, you are not placed on any registry. Patient information is protected by medical confidentiality under the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. It may be disclosed only in cases expressly established by law.
How an online appointment works
- Message or callWrite on WhatsApp or call — our coordinator replies within minutes, day or night. You don't have to give your surname.
- Doctor and timeWe match you with a psychiatrist, addiction specialist or psychotherapist and agree on a time — often the same day.
- Video consultationA secure 50–60 minute video call: the doctor takes a detailed history and uses standardised scales if needed.
- Treatment planYou receive a clear summary, recommendations and a plan: what we do online and what needs an in-person visit or home call.
- Follow-upOnline follow-up sessions, messenger contact with your doctor, and treatment adjustments until you get a stable result.
Prices in Zhitikara
| Online addiction specialist consultation | 12 000 ₸ |
| Online addiction therapy session | 15 000 ₸ |
| Online support program (one month) | 80 000 ₸ |
The final cost is agreed before treatment starts. Prices are in tenge and do not constitute a public offer.
Where to get help
You can book in Zhitikara online or at one of two branches: Building 24, Microdistrict 4, Zhitikara, 20 Aviatorov St., Zhitikara. Our coordinator replies on WhatsApp within minutes at any time, and a doctor usually connects by video the same day; home visits are available too — all city districts and nearby settlements.
Confidential and private
An online appointment in Zhitikara is first of all about privacy: no clinic visit, no waiting room. A private room and headphones are enough. Data is stored in a secure system with restricted access and does not enter any state registry without legal grounds.
Questions and answers
Can I get a consultation anonymously?
Yes, you can get a consultation anonymously, without giving your full name or providing documents at the first stage. Information about your request is protected by medical confidentiality. If official medical documentation is needed later, the doctor will explain in advance what details will be required.
Can a relative reach out without the patient?
Yes, loved ones can have a separate consultation: the doctor will help assess the situation, explain the possible treatment options, and advise on how to talk to the person about getting help. However, an adult can be treated only with their consent, except in cases provided for by law.
What should I do if I suspect an overdose?
Call 103 or 112 immediately. Signs of an overdose include slowed or stopped breathing, bluish skin, loss of consciousness, seizures, and no response to your voice. Until the ambulance team arrives, follow the dispatcher’s instructions and do not leave the person alone.
Is hospital admission necessary?
This is decided individually. Inpatient care may be needed for severe withdrawal, serious coexisting illnesses, psychotic symptoms, or when outpatient treatment has not worked. Many patients start with an outpatient stage and online support.
Are prescriptions issued online?
Whether a medication can be prescribed and a prescription issued depends on the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the requirement for an initial in-person examination; special rules apply to certain medications. The doctor explains the procedure honestly and, if necessary, refers you for an in-person appointment. Promises to issue a prescription online without an examination do not meet medical standards.
How long does drug addiction treatment take?
The length depends on the type of substance, the severity of the addiction, and whether there are complications. The acute stage may take from several days to several weeks, while rehabilitation and maintenance treatment take months. International guidelines emphasize that staying in treatment for a long time improves outcomes.
Where can I be seen in Zhitikara?
Online — from anywhere in the city or region. In person — at two branches: Building 24, Microdistrict 4, Zhitikara and 20 Aviatorov St., Zhitikara. Both are open 24/7; home visits cover all city districts and nearby settlements.
Sources and methodology
This page was prepared by the Psychiatry Online medical editorial team based on:
- International Classification of Diseases ICD-10 and ICD-11, World Health Organization
- Clinical diagnosis and treatment protocols of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan
- Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System”
- NICE (UK) and APA (US) guidelines on the treatment of mental disorders
- WHO recommendations on telemedicine and digital health
This information is for reference only and does not replace a consultation with a specialist. Editorial policy
