If you or a loved one is suffering from alcohol addiction, help is available. Treatment can help you overcome your problem, regain control of your life and stay sober.
Therapy helps you understand why you drink, learn how to handle difficult feelings and situations and change habits that lead to drinking. Medications may also be prescribed to help with cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Addiction is a mental disorder
People with mental health disorders, such as depression or anxiety, are at a higher risk for developing a substance use disorder. In fact, about half of those with an addiction also have a mental illness.
Addiction changes the brain, disrupting its normal hierarchy of needs and desires. It substitutes new priorities and leads to compulsive behaviors that override the ability to control impulses despite the consequences.
This can lead to serious health complications and death if left untreated. This is why it is important to get an accurate diagnosis from licensed professionals who have experience with mental health and addiction.
Alcoholism is a mental health disorder that can be treated successfully with a comprehensive recovery plan. It includes detoxification, medical treatment (like naltrexone), behavioral treatments, and support groups.
Addictions can lead to violence
Alcohol addiction has been shown to increase the chances of violence. This is due to the fact that people under the influence often have lower inhibitions and can easily become impulsive.
In addition to this, people who suffer from alcohol abuse are more likely to be involved in domestic violence and are also more at risk for homicide.
Those who are victims of this kind of violence also have an increased likelihood of developing mental health disorders, such as depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and anxiety.
Fortunately, this connection can be broken. There are treatment centers that can help both alcoholics and their partners overcome these issues so that they can move on to a healthier life.
Addictions can be life-threatening
Alcohol Addiction is a serious condition that can be life-threatening. It affects the brain and can lead to permanent damage.
Using alcohol regularly, drinking to get high or having a history of problems with alcohol can mean someone is struggling with an addiction. If you think your friend or family member has an addiction, help them seek treatment to overcome it.
Early use of drugs can also increase your risk of developing a drug addiction. Taking certain types of drugs, such as stimulants, cocaine or opioid painkillers, can cause changes in the brain and make it more likely to develop a drug addiction.
People who have an alcohol addiction often find it difficult to stop, even when they want to. Their behavior is out of control and causes problems with their work, home and social life.
Addictions can be treated
Getting treatment is one of the most important steps in fighting an addiction. Whether it is for alcohol, cocaine, heroin, crystal methamphetamine or any other substance, help is available.
Addictions can be treated with behavioral therapies and medications. These treatments can help individuals regain control over their use, stop using and prevent relapse.
An individual may seek treatment in a residential rehab facility or outpatient program. Inpatient programs offer around-the-clock care and therapeutic support to individuals suffering from an addiction.
Outpatient treatment programs are typically shorter in duration and can be completed at home. These programs can be effective for individuals with moderate or less severe addictions.
Alcohol addiction is a complex disorder that can cause significant psychological and physical damage. It can also interfere with social and work life.
