NABHS helps you locate detox and rehab programs for alcoholism, offering recovery in a safe and supportive environment.
Alcoholism can have detrimental effects on one’s body, mind, and social life. Alcohol addiction is a serious and destructive condition that can lead to physical, emotional, and social damage in an individual’s life.
In an individual with alcohol addiction, drinking becomes a compulsion and priority, to the detriment of other activities and healthy relationships. Alcohol addiction is characterized by an individual’s inability to stop drinking, despite its negative consequences in their life. The individual will continue to drink despite the physical, psychological, and social damage that it causes.
Impact of Alcohol Addiction
- Alcohol addiction can lead to a variety of physical and mental health issues, including liver disease, depression, anxiety, and an increased risk of suicide.
- It can also lead to serious legal, financial, and social problems, such as job loss, family conflict, and relationship difficulties.
- An individual with an alcohol addiction will often feel ashamed, guilty, and powerless against their addiction. They may feel overwhelmed and unable to cope without alcohol.
- Alcohol consumption can have serious and permanent damaging effects on the body, damaging many bodily organs.
- Long-term alcohol use can lead to the development of many health problems, including cirrhosis of the liver, pancreatitis, cancer, high blood pressure, and stroke.
- It can also cause brain damage, weaken the heart muscle, and lead to malnutrition, along with many other problems.
- If someone has been excessively drinking, they may need medication to assist and manage their withdrawal symptoms. This may include benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium, etc.) to help manage anxiety, sleeping pills for insomnia, and anticonvulsants to help prevent seizures.
- In addition, nutritional supplements may be necessary to help the body recover from alcohol. Counseling and support groups are also important for a successful recovery from alcoholism.
Professional treatment is often necessary to help an individual with alcohol addiction to gain control of their life and overcome their addiction. Treatment usually involves a combination of counseling, support groups, and medications.
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Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) Diagnostic
According to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)-5, the following are considered the Diagnostic Criteria for AUD.
A problematic pattern of alcohol use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, as manifested by at least two of the following, occurring within a 12-month period:
- Alcohol is often taken in larger amounts or over a longer period than was intended.
- There is a persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control alcohol use. Alcohol Use Disorder
- A great deal of time is spent in activities necessary to obtain alcohol, use alcohol, or recover from its effects.
- Craving, or a strong desire or urge to use alcohol.
- Recurrent alcohol use resulting in a failure to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, or home.
- Continued alcohol use despite having persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of alcohol.
- Important social, occupational, or recreational activities are given up or reduced because of alcohol use.
- Recurrent alcohol use in situations in which it is physically hazardous.
- Alcohol use is continued despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by alcohol.
- Tolerance, as defined by either of the following:
- A need for markedly increased amounts of alcohol to achieve intoxication or desired effect.
- A markedly diminished effect with continued use of the same amount of alcohol.
- Withdrawal, as manifested by either of the following:
- The characteristic withdrawal syndrome for alcohol
- Alcohol (or a closely related substance, such as a benzodiazepine) is taken to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms.
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Here is how we test AUD:
- Physical Exam: A physical exam to rule out other medical issues can be conducted. This includes checking vital signs, examining the eyes, and testing for alcohol in the blood.
- Screening Tests: Screening tests such as the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) or the CAGE questionnaire can be administered to assess the severity of alcohol use disorder.
- Psychiatric Evaluation: A psychiatric evaluation conducted by a mental health professional can help diagnose alcohol use disorder. The evaluation can include a review of the person’s medical history, mental health history, and family history.
- Lab Tests: Lab tests such as liver function tests can be used to check for signs of liver damage due to alcohol use.
- Imaging Tests: Imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI may be used to check for signs of brain damage due to alcohol use.
- Psychological Tests: Psychological tests such as the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) can provide insight into the person’s mental health and help diagnose alcohol use disorder.
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Common withdrawal symptoms of alcohol addiction
- Anxiety
- Tremors
- Insomnia
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sweating
- Depressed mood
- Irritability
- Rapid heartbeat
- High blood pressure
- Seizures
- Headaches
- Mood wings
- Fatigue
- Dehydration
- Loss of appetite
- Confusion and Agitation
- Panic Attacks
- Light Sensitivity
Mental healthcare experts can help patients get through withdrawal symptoms with regular supervision, medical support, and psychological assistance for an easier detox journey.
Looking for an addiction center in California? Read more here!
How do we treat alcoholism?
Our healthcare expert first assesses the individual’s particular situation and mental health history to gain a better understanding of the individual’s needs.
- A combination of evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI), helps the individual identify and address underlying issues that may be contributing to their alcohol use.
- After a thorough addiction study, an individualized treatment plan is created that includes both medical and psychosocial interventions. It is also made sure to work with the client to create a plan that outlines strategies to help them manage their urges and cravings, such as avoiding high-risk situations and connecting with a support system.
- There are educational campaigns conducted on the risks associated with alcohol use that can help our clients develop coping strategies and positive lifestyle habits to reduce their risk for relapse. Additionally, regular monitoring and support to help them stay on track with their treatment plan and continue to make progress in their recovery
Want to learn how you can find the correct alcohol detox program? Read our expert guide here.
Residential, inpatient and outpatient treatments for alcohol addiction
When looking for a residential treatment for alcohol addiction near me, know that this treatment is offered in a residential rehab facility or a specialized treatment center. During residential treatment, patients receive 24-hour care and support from medical and mental health professionals. This treatment often includes individual therapy, group therapy, educational classes, and activities designed to help individuals understand the causes of their addiction. The goal of residential treatment is to provide a safe, structured environment in which an individual can focus on their recovery without the distractions and temptations of everyday life.
Inpatient treatment for alcohol addiction near you will offer hospital-based treatment that takes place in a specialized clin, hospital or addiction treatment facility. Though the treatment might be for shorter-term, it depends on the severity of the issue.
Outpatient treatment for alcohol addiction near you allows patients to receive addiction counseling and support without having to live in rehabilitation. Outpatient treatment programs vary in intensity depending on the patient’s needs and can last for a few weeks to several months to manage cravings, stress and prevent relapse.
Addiction has a huge impact on your mental health. Get the correct help today!
