Alcohol use disorder, or dependence, can have a devastating impact on a person’s mental health, relationships and physical well-being.
The first step is to get help. This can be done through one-on-one counseling, or with a support group like Al-Anon.
Relapse
Relapse occurs when a person returns to drinking and drug use, often without fully recommitting to recovery. Symptoms of relapse include cravings, feeling like using, and feeling hopeless or depressed.
Relapse is a gradual process, which can occur at any time after a period of sobriety. Some people experience relapses while in treatment; others experience them outside of treatment.
In alcohol addiction treatment, relapse prevention strategies are aimed at combating triggers that increase a person’s chances of relapsing. These triggers can include things like people, places, and events that are closely linked to drug or alcohol use.
In turnbridge’s young adult programs, clients learn coping skills and behavioral techniques that can help them stay sober during relapse triggers. Clients can also learn how to identify and address negative emotions, such as depression, boredom, and stress, and high-risk situations, such as parties or celebrations that involve alcohol or drugs.
Symptoms
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a serious medical condition that affects millions of Americans. It may be mild or severe and can happen at any age.
People with AUD drink in larger amounts or for longer than they should, and they often struggle to cut back or stop. They also often experience cravings and urges to drink.
If you think your loved one is suffering from alcohol addiction, seek help now to avoid complications like liver disease and weakened immune function. You may also want to consider getting treatment for their mental health condition, which could be contributing to the problem.
The first step to recovering from an alcohol abuse problem is detoxification. This process is crucial to recovery because alcohol withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening.
Treatment
There are a wide range of treatment options for alcohol addiction. They include behavioral therapies, medications and mutual support groups.
Many people find that a combination of these works best. The one that's right for you depends on your situation and goals.
Inpatient or residential programs are a good option if you're struggling with severe alcohol use disorder. These usually involve around-the-clock care from a team of medical specialists.
The goal of these programs is to help you overcome your drinking problem and learn the skills you need to maintain sobriety in your daily life. They also provide training in life skills, such as how to cope with stressful situations and relapse prevention.
There are also a few pharmaceutical treatments for alcohol use disorders that can be effective, such as naltrexone. Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors in the brain and reduces cravings for alcohol. It's usually used in conjunction with counselling or other medicines.
Prevention
Alcohol abuse can be a serious issue for people, and it is important to recognize the signs of an addiction at an early stage. There are many prevention options available that can help individuals stay away from drinking or learn how to use alcohol responsibly.
A person's risk of developing an addiction is often linked to specific factors, such as genetics, a family history of addiction, or the age when they first drink. Other factors can increase a person's risk of substance abuse, such as life stressors or a lack of healthy activities.
A combination of primary, secondary and tertiary interventions can prevent or reduce the harm caused by alcohol use. These include limiting the commercial and public availability of alcohol; laws that limit the sale, purchase, possession and transportation of alcohol; and community education and social support programs.
