Or a doctor could prescribe drugs to assist with other emotions common in recovery. These complications are reasons why it’s important to treat alcohol addiction early. Nearly all risks involved with alcohol addiction may be avoidable or treatable, with successful long-term recovery. It can cause changes to the brain and neurochemistry, so a person with an alcohol addiction may not be able to control their actions. Alcohol addiction, also known as alcoholism, is a disease that affects people of all walks of life. Experts have tried to pinpoint factors like genetics, sex, race, or socioeconomics that may predispose someone to alcohol addiction.
What are the symptoms of alcohol use disorder?
This could mean an emphasis on therapy for someone can i drink coffee while on adderall who is depressed, or inpatient treatment for someone with severe withdrawal symptoms. Because AUD is a chronic, relapsing disorder, persistence is key. It is rare that someone would go to treatment once and then never drink again.
How do I take care of myself?
A health care provider can look at the number, pattern, and severity of symptoms to see whether AUD is present and help you decide the best course of action. Looking for a quick “cure” for an alcohol addiction will likely not result in long-term success. Instead, those seeking recovery must commit to a treatment and aftercare plan designed by professionals. As defined by the American Society of Addiction Medicine, alcoholism – like other addictions – is a chronic brain disorder1. Similar to other chronic illnesses like asthma and hypertension, alcoholism is not a condition that goes away after treatment.
- Enrolling in medical detox for AUD can prevent serious symptoms and the risk of death when quitting alcohol use.
- Comprehensive treatment gives individuals the needed tools to stay sober for the long-term and enjoy productive lives despite the disorder.
- Treatment programs at every level may vary in the specific services they offer.
- Acceptance- and mindfulness-based interventions increase awareness and acceptance of present-moment experiences.
- Three medications are currently approved in the United States to help people stop or reduce their drinking and prevent a return to drinking.
- Support groups can be especially helpful when you’re going through treatment for AUD.
How to Treat and Manage Alcoholism
Healthcare addiction group activities providers diagnose the condition by doing a physical examination to look for symptoms of conditions that alcohol use disorder may cause. Contact your primary care provider, health insurance plan, local health department, or employee assistance program for information about specialty treatment. If you have any of these symptoms, alcohol may already be a cause for concern. The more symptoms you have, the more urgent the need for change.
If identified and treated early, someone with an alcohol addiction may be able to avoid major consequences of the disease. Understanding the available treatment options—from behavioral therapies and medications to mutual-support groups—is the first step. The important thing is to remain engaged in whatever method you choose.
Many others substantially reduce their drinking and report fewer alcohol-related problems. Many people struggle with controlling their drinking at some point in their lives. Millions of adults in the United States have alcohol use disorder (AUD), and approximately 1 in 10 children live in a home with a parent who has AUD. An important stopping cymbalta cold turkey first step is to learn more about alcohol use disorder and your treatment options.
“Isn’t taking medications just trading one addiction for another?”
Primary care and mental health providers can provide effective AUD treatment by combining new medications with brief counseling visits. Ideally, health care providers will one day be able to identify which AUD treatment is most effective for each person. These advances could optimize how treatment decisions are made in the future.
A number of health conditions can often go hand in hand with AUD. Studies show that people who have AUD are more likely to suffer from major depression or anxiety over their lifetime. When addressing drinking problems, it’s important to also seek treatment for any accompanying medical and mental health issues. Three medications are currently approved in the United States to help people stop or reduce their drinking and prevent a return to drinking. These medications are prescribed by a primary care provider or other health care provider and may be used alone or in combination with counseling.
Instead, these are groups of people who have alcohol use disorder. Examples include Alcoholics Anonymous, SMART Recovery, and other programs. Your peers can offer understanding and advice and help keep you accountable. You doctor also can refer you to a treatment center or experts who can help. Treatment for alcohol addiction is individualized, so each person’s care plan will depend on their unique needs. Recognizing that you or a loved one has a problem with alcohol can be jarring.
