The Glasgow branch of the specialist rehabilitation chain, The Priory, has become one of only four branches across the UK to launch a temporary discount package for addiction treatments.

The Glasgow branch of the specialist rehabilitation chain, The Priory, has become one of only four branches across the UK to launch a temporary discount package for addiction treatments.

The clinic is responding to what it describes as a "considerable" surge in referrals as the recession drives increasing numbers of people towards alcohol and drug dependencies.

The undisclosed reductions, introduced this month, apply to various addiction therapies, from problem drinking and substance abuse, to compulsive gambling, shopping and even sex addiction.

However, a spokeswoman for the The Priory said demand for its drug and alcohol services in particular has experienced a "considerable rise" since the beginning of the economic downturn.

She said: "Priory Group are seeing an increasing number of patients suffering from the symptoms of what could be referred to as recession depression'. Many people who are depressed turn towards alcohol or drugs to make them feel better, at least temporarily.

"Priory is offering a short-term reduced price package to encourage people to seek treatment for addiction of all types.

"We are acutely aware that many people are facing financial issues and we want to make our high-quality services available to as many people as possible."

The discounted programmes are being offered until the end of August, and only at four centres out of the group's 15 UK branches. Along with the Mansionhouse Road centre in Glasgow, cut-price packages will be available at Preston, Bristol and Brighton.

Despite The Priory's image as the rehab pad of choice among celebrities, around 70% of clients are referred by their GP.