Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol abuse is a significant issue in the United States. According to a survey by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, in 2009, 23.5 million people over the age of 12 in the United States had an alcohol or drug problem that was severe enough to require treatment. When a person struggles with an addiction to alcohol, it is difficult for them to end the abuse without the help of a specialized treatment program. When it comes to alcohol abuse, it’s never too late to get help. If you or someone you know has a problem with alcohol, contact us today at 1-888-968-9816 Who Answers? to find out about programs that can help with recovery.
Signs of Alcohol Abuse
When you are considering a treatment program for you or a loved one, it can be helpful to know the signs of alcohol addiction. After all, over 50 percent of adults in the United States are regular drinkers, according to the CDC. The line that divides normal drinkers from problem drinkers varies from person to person because of individual body type and body chemistry.
In general, it is wise to seek treatment if you notice the following early signs of alcohol abuse:
- You have problems at home, work or school because of drinking
- People have begun to comment about how much you drink
- You or someone else has been injured as a result of your drinking habits
- You don’t remember things that happened while you were drinking
- You have alcohol-related legal or health problems
As alcohol dependence progresses, it turns into a full-blown addiction. At this point, it is very important to seek treatment. Signs of alcohol addiction include:
- Needing to drink to maintain a normal behavioral state
- Causing damage to your relationships
- Experiencing nausea, shaking or anxiety when you don’t drink
- Hiding the true amount you drink from friends and family
If you or a loved one is displaying any of these signs, call 1-888-968-9816 Who Answers? , 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our advisors can help you find the treatment program that is right for you.
Types of Treatment Programs
Alcohol addiction is not a character flaw or a personality shortcoming – it is a disease that affects brain chemistry. Just as each person is different, each treatment option is different. In general, long-term treatment programs have a higher success rate. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, recovery is contingent upon staying in treatment for an adequate amount of time. Long-term programs, which typically last for at least 30 days , can help ensure that you or your loved one develop the tools and mindset necessary to overcome problems with alcohol abuse.
Inpatient treatment programs provide complete immersion experiences, giving you access to recovery professionals and facilities that promote a healthier lifestyle. The first step in treatment is usually medically assisted detoxification, which removes the alcohol from your body so you can start fresh. Most programs include a combination of individual therapy, where you will examine the underlying issues that impact addiction, and group therapy, which allows you to learn from other people who also suffer from addiction. Depending on the rehab program you choose, you may also work with holistic healing practices, meditation, visualization and family therapy. For people with very severe alcohol problems, six to twelve month stays in therapeutic communities can be especially beneficial.
Outpatient treatment programs can also be successful for people who cannot do inpatient programs. Those who check into an outpatient rehab center will come in every day or several days a week to participate in therapy and counseling sessions. Procedures may include cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and contingency management.
Finding the right rehab center for you or someone you know significantly increases the odds of overcoming an alcohol addiction. Call our advisors today at 1-888-968-9816 Who Answers? to discuss the outpatient and inpatient programs in your area.
Treatment Program Philosophy
Many alcohol rehab programs use a 12-step model that is similar to the one used by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). As a person goes through each step, he or she deals with the different aspects of alcoholism. A foundational element of the procedure is community; having other people around to give insight and support can increase your chances of success. Many people who are participating in a treatment program also attend AA meetings for additional support.
Individual treatment center philosophies can vary dramatically, so it is important to research your options to find the center best suited for you or your loved one. Some centers focus on the mind-body-spirit connection and include activities designed to promote whole-body healing. Others focus heavily on the community connection, using a group of people to provide support and encourage recovery. Still others focus on intense therapy to get at the emotional root of addiction problems. Each type of alcohol rehab has its merits. To help decide what treatment program would fit your situation best, call us at 1-888-968-9816 Who Answers? .