Find the Correct Treatment for Your Loved Ones
Alcohol use disorder is frighteningly prevalent, with an estimated 28.9 million people aged 12 and older suffering from alcohol addiction in 2023. With alcohol use being widespread, it's important to be on the lookout for common signs of alcohol addiction. Recognizing these signs early on can help people enroll in addiction treatment, get help for their loved ones and save lives.
Common Signs of Alcohol Addiction
While no two people will have the exact same signs of alcohol addiction, there are certainly some tell-tale signs that may indicate a problem with alcohol.
Common signs of alcohol addiction can include the following:
- Cravings for alcohol.
- Feeling like you need to drink more and more to achieve the same effects, known as tolerance.
- Having a strong desire or compulsion to drink, even when it's causing problems in your life.
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking, such as shaking, sweating, nausea or anxiety.
- Needing to drink every day or on a regular basis.
- Becoming isolated from loved ones and activities you used to enjoy to drink alone.
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school or home due to drinking or being hungover.
- Continuing to drink despite negative consequences, such as legal issues, relationship problems or health concerns.
What to Look For in Loved Ones
These signs above are common for people with alcohol-use disorder. However, they might not be readily apparent to an outsider. For instance, if someone is craving alcohol, they might drink it without others being aware. Or, they might neglect responsibilities while seemingly staying in control to others.
Because of the difficulty in spotting alcohol addiction, it's important to pay attention to changes in behavior and mood. Some other things you might notice in a loved one struggling with alcohol addiction include:
- Mood swings or increased irritability.
- Changes in appearance or hygiene.
- Drinking at unusual times or places, such as early in the morning or alone.
- Needing more money than usual, especially for alcohol purchases.
- Secretive behavior surrounding drinking habits.
- Legal issues or other problems seemingly out of nowhere.
These signs of alcohol addiction might take a little bit more effort to spot. But, if you're worried about a loved one, it's important to pay attention to their behavior and reach out for help if necessary.
The Toll of Alcohol Addiction
Not reaching out for help when someone is struggling with alcohol addiction can have severe consequences. In fact, it's estimated that nearly 178,000 people die from excess alcohol use every year in the United States alone. Additionally, alcohol-use disorder can lead to other health issues such as:
- Liver disease, including cirrhosis.
- Cardiovascular disease.
- Pancreatitis.
- Increased risk of cancers.
- High blood pressure.
- Malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies.
- Weakened immune system.
Beyond physical health, alcohol addiction can also take a toll on one's mental and emotional well-being. It can lead to strained relationships, job loss, financial struggles and even legal issues. There is also a link between alcohol addiction and mental health disorders, with alcohol use leading to:
- Depressive disorders.
- Anxiety disorders.
- Trauma- and stress-related disorders.
- Other substance use disorders.
- Sleep disorders.
Treatment Options for Alcohol Use Disorder
If you or a loved one are struggling with alcohol addiction, it's important to seek help as soon as possible. There are various treatment options available that can help individuals overcome alcohol use disorder.
Detox
Detox is vital for people with alcohol use disorder. Alcohol use can lead to severe and life-threatening withdrawal symptoms such as:
- Seizures.
- Tremors.
- Fever.
- Delirium Tremens (DTs).
- Encephalopathy.
It's important to undergo detox under medical supervision in order to safely manage withdrawal symptoms and prevent any potential complications. During detox, someone with alcohol use disorder will undergo 24/7 medical monitoring to ensure their safety and comfort. A care team will provide guidance to help them safely taper down from alcohol.
Medication-Assisted Treatment
In some cases, medications may be prescribed alongside detox to help manage cravings, reduce withdrawal symptoms and prevent relapse. There are several different medications used for alcohol addiction, including:
- Disulfiram, which causes unpleasant symptoms when alcohol is consumed to deter drinking.
- Naltrexone, which blocks the effects of alcohol and reduces cravings.
- Acamprosate, which helps reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
Medication-assisted treatment can be an effective way to manage alcohol use disorder, but it should always be used in conjunction with other therapies such as counseling and support groups for the best results.
Inpatient Treatment
For those with the most severe signs of alcohol addiction, inpatient treatment might be necessary. Inpatient treatment involves living at a facility for a period, typically 30-90 days, and participating in intensive therapy and support groups. This type of treatment provides round-the-clock care and a highly structured environment to help individuals focus solely on their recovery.
During inpatient treatment, people will engage in several different forms of therapy and engage with recovery teams. These teams can include addiction counselors, medical professionals and social workers. They will also receive a personalized treatment plan and have access to various activities and resources to help them develop healthier coping mechanisms. These can include:
- Individual therapy.
- Group therapy.
- Evidence-based treatment like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
- Trauma recovery therapy.
- Meditation.
- Yoga.
- Art therapy.
These activities can help people learn new ways to cope with stress and emotions without turning to alcohol.
Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient treatment allows people to continue living at home while attending therapy sessions multiple times a week. This is a great option for those with less severe alcohol addiction issues or who have already completed inpatient treatment.
Outpatient treatment typically involves:
- Individual counseling.
- Group therapy.
- Education on addiction.
- Relapse prevention skills.
- Medication management.
Sober Living
Sober living homes provide a transitional living option for those who have completed inpatient treatment or outpatient treatment and are not yet ready to return home. These homes offer a supportive, sober environment for individuals to continue their recovery journey while slowly transitioning back into daily life. Sober living houses often have rules such as mandatory attendance at support group meetings and random drug and alcohol testing to ensure residents stay on track.
Aftercare Support
Recovery from alcohol addiction is an ongoing process, even after completing formal treatment programs. Aftercare support offers continued guidance and resources for individuals to maintain their sobriety. From support groups and AA meetings to therapy sessions and sober coaches, aftercare support can provide crucial tools for long-term recovery.
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