Dr Ralf Warren MB ChB Bsc.

Medical Doctor

Ralf studied Medicine at the University of Bristol, taking a year out during his studies to perform an intercalation in Cancer Biology and Immunology. He graduated in 2020 and has worked at several healthcare centres around the South-West of England, gaining experience in medical and surgical settings, intensive care and general practice.

In additional to clinical work, Ralf also regularly undertakes projects in medical communications, with a focus on writing and editing. He currently divides his time between this and clinical work as a speciality training doctor in Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

Cocaine addiction

At Smarmore Castle, we meet people at many different stages of cocaine addiction. Some are unsure if their use has become a problem, but many already feel it’s taken over parts of their daily life. Understanding more about addiction can help you to make sense of your situation. Learn how cocaine addiction develops, the signs […]

Addiction treatment in progress at Smarmore Castle, image showing four people sitting in chairs in a circle talking

Drug detox at Smarmore Castle

Choosing to stop long-term drug use is a positive and often life-changing decision. For many people, it also comes with real physical challenges that require medical support to manage safely. During long periods of drug use, the body adapts so completely to a substance that withdrawal becomes a physical process that cannot always be managed […]

a man running displaying an artistic way of how to tell if someone is on speed

What is speed drug and how to tell if someone is on it?

If you’re trying to work out how to tell if someone is on the drug speed, it usually means you’ve noticed changes that don’t feel typical for them. Speed can affect someone’s body, mood, sleep, and behaviour, and those changes can show up quickly. This page explains what speed is, the most common speed drug […]

Work Addiction

In today’s fast-paced world, work addiction – often referred to as “workaholism” – is becoming an increasingly common issue. Unlike other behavioural compulsions, work addiction is connected to an important part of adult life. As work is considered a productive and positive activity in our society, the severity of this problem is often overlooked. Although […]

Three men discussing addiction rehab during therapy in a library.

Gambling Addiction

Gambling addiction, also called compulsive gambling or gambling disorder, is a recognised behavioural addiction and serious gambling problem that can significantly impact your mental health, relationships, and family finances. Even if you don’t gamble daily, patterns of addictive behaviour and repeated unsuccessful efforts to stop can indicate a more serious problem. This page explains how […]

Heroin Addiction

Heroin addiction is a substance use disorder that can have a devastating impact on your life and your family. If you use heroin, it can be difficult to understand or accept that you have become addicted and are no longer in control of your life. This may make it harder for you to reach out […]

A woman sitting with her left hand holding her head, feeling anxious about the effects of menopause and addiction.

Menopause and Addiction: Understanding the Link with Alcohol and Drugs

Many women in Ireland going through menopause experience emotional and physical symptoms that can be difficult to manage, from low mood and anxiety to poor sleep and brain fog. For some, these challenges can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as drinking alcohol more frequently or using medication or drugs to get through the day. […]

Cocaine Detox and Withdrawal – What To Expect

What Is Cocaine Detox? Cocaine detox is the process of removing cocaine and its toxins from the body as a result of prolonged substance abuse. It is the first essential step in breaking free from dependence and preparing for long-term recovery. While cocaine does not cause the same physical dependence as alcohol or heroin, it […]

Medical Detoxification Programme

Medical detoxification is the first step involved in an addiction rehab programme. At Smarmore Castle, detox is a medically managed process that helps patients safely cleanse the body of drugs or alcohol while helping manage withdrawal symptoms in a safe environment. Detox can be difficult, but with expert care, it’s also manageable, and it marks […]

Cocaine Rehab

Cocaine addiction can feel overwhelming. However, at Smarmore Castle, we provide a structured, evidence-based cocaine rehabilitation programme with inpatient treatment to help individuals break free from cocaine dependence. Our treatment approach integrates medical detox, psychological and behavioural therapies, complementary therapies, and relapse prevention, giving you the tools for a lasting recovery. Located in a peaceful […]

A woman talking to her therapist indoors at Smarmore Castle about treatment for cannabis addiction.

Signs of cannabis addiction: risks and treatment

According to the Health Research Board, cannabis was the third most common drug reported in 2024. Cannabis is recognised as having a long-term impact on a person’s health, but high THC strains of the drug are now in circulation, which are being identified to cause serious mental health concerns, particularly in those who began consuming […]

two women sitting and chatting outside of Smarmore Castle addiction clinic

Alcohol Addiction

Recognising the signs of alcohol addiction isn’t always easy, especially at the beginning. In the early stages, someone may be able to hide their drinking habits from others, or even from themselves. But over time, what starts as occasional or social drinking can become a serious problem. If left untreated, alcohol addiction can take a […]