Alcohol addiction is a chronic disorder that affects a person's body and mind. The brain changes with prolonged alcohol use and leads to a craving for more booze.
Drinking becomes a way of life for people with alcohol addiction, and it can take over every aspect of their lives. Physical health, mental health and relationships can all be affected.
Detox
Alcohol detox, or alcohol withdrawal treatment, is a crucial part of the process for many people who want to quit drinking. Detoxification helps people stop drinking by minimizing withdrawal symptoms and reducing their risk of serious complications.
While a person may think they can detox at home, doing so is extremely dangerous and should never be attempted without the guidance of a medical professional. This is why detoxification is typically administered by medical professionals at rehab facilities across the country.
While alcohol detox can be a painful process, it is an important step toward sobriety. Once a patient has completed detoxification, they can begin treatment to learn how to live a healthy lifestyle and maintain long-term sobriety.
Rehab
Rehab is a treatment for alcohol addiction that is often seen as one of the best ways to break away from the habit of using drugs and alcohol. It is also a very effective way to help people get back on their feet and start to live a full life again.
Recovering from alcohol abuse is a journey that requires time, commitment and dedication on the part of the person receiving treatment. The process can be a daunting one, but it can also be incredibly rewarding once it is complete.
Rehab programs have many different approaches to helping individuals break free from their addiction. These can include specialized sessions, group therapy and family therapy. The main aim is to help the individual understand their addiction, how it impacts them and the reasons they are using in the first place.
Counseling
Psychotherapy (also known as counseling) is a form of treatment that can help you overcome alcohol addiction. It can help you to identify and change the maladaptive thoughts, feelings and behaviors that cause you to drink heavily and relapse.
It can also teach you how to manage stress in healthier ways and avoid situations that trigger your urge to drink. It may take place one-on-one or in groups.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a common form of counseling that focuses on changing the maladaptive thoughts and behaviors that lead to heavy drinking. It can also be used in conjunction with other treatments.
Counseling for alcoholism can include one-on-one or group sessions with a counselor, or it can involve family members. It can also focus on repairing family relationships and helping them cope with the person’s drinking problem.
Support Groups
Support groups can be an important part of recovery for those with alcohol addiction. They can help members form new social bonds, reduce the chance of relapse and provide a source of encouragement.
Several different types of support groups are available, including traditional, religious and secular organizations. The best group for you depends on the needs of your specific situation and whether or not you want to work with a therapist.
The AA and NA are the most famous and widely known alcohol addiction support groups, but there are many others available. For example, SMART Recovery offers a range of meetings and online resources.
Moderation Management is a free service that helps people learn how to moderate their drinking. This approach is less based on a step program and more on personal responsibility.
Women for Sobriety is a group that focuses on women recovering from addiction. It uses a combination of self-empowerment, peer support and meditation to promote healing in the present. Meetings are free to attend, but a $2-$5 silent donation is encouraged.
