Alcohol use disorder is the most common substance problem in the United States. To battle that, there are many alcoholism treatment methods and programs available. However, few of the people who have a drinking problem actually seek help. Learning more about alcohol use disorder and treatment may prompt some to get help.
What Is Alcohol Use Disorder?
Drug addiction is a chronic disease that involves a compulsive need or craving to use a substance. People with an addiction can’t stop using drugs even if they want to and know it’s destructive. These are the same traits of alcohol use disorder. People who exhibit these traits need alcoholism treatment to achieve and maintain sobriety.
In addition, high-functioning alcoholism is a specific category of alcohol use disorder. People with this condition manage their personal lives and careers without trouble. They can function like normal people, and they and others don’t always notice that they have a drinking problem. It usually takes a serious incident like a relationship ultimatum or liver damage to realize that there’s an issue.
Types of Alcohol Rehab
Getting alcoholism treatment starts with choosing a qualified rehab center. Residential rehab has the highest success rate of any program. It provides 24-hour, personalized support and assistance.
The biggest benefit, however, is that it provides a safe, drug-free environment for recovery. Since clients have to stay at the rehab center for residential care, they don’t have any drug or alcohol influences to distract them. They can focus all of their energy on addressing the cause of addiction, changing their behaviors and developing life coping skills. These types of programs can last anywhere from 30 to 90 or more days.
Outpatient rehab may be an ideal option for people with mild alcohol abuse problems. For people who have alcohol use disorder, it’s more useful as a step-down treatment after residential care. However, some people with alcohol addiction can benefit from outpatient treatment first.
An outpatient program can last for up to three months. It doesn’t require clients to live at the rehab center. Instead, they can keep going to work and school and caring for their families. The problem is that it leaves them vulnerable to the ever-present alcohol temptations, triggers, and relapse.
What Happens in Alcoholism Treatment?
Alcohol triggers are everywhere since drinking is prevalent in many cultures. Because of that, people need thorough alcoholism treatment to avoid relapse.
The treatment starts with a proper alcohol detox. Clients need to let their bodies naturally eliminate the toxins that alcohol leaves behind. However, this process brings on withdrawal, which isn’t very comfortable.
In medical detox, they get 24-hour medical care and medicines to relieve the symptoms and control cravings. For example, they may receive anti-nausea meds to prevent nausea and vomiting or anticonvulsants to prevent seizures. They could take drugs like acamprosate and naltrexone to curb cravings.
Withdrawal lasts for about a week, after which clients can move on to rehab. This part of alcoholism treatment helps people work through the cause of their addictions. Therapists use techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy to help clients change their negative thoughts, behaviors, and emotions.
Experiential therapies are also beneficial in drug treatment. These are non-traditional methods of encouraging recovery, such as art. Adventure therapy is also in this category and usually involves outdoor activities such as hiking, ropes courses, and team sports.
Along with addressing underlying problems, alcohol rehab includes relapse prevention education. Clients learn how to avoid their triggers and handle risky situations. Having a plan for such situations can help people in recovery stay on the right path.
Visit Santé Center for Healing for Alcohol Treatment
If you have a drinking problem and want help, Santé Center for Healing can provide personalized care. We offer a range of drug treatment programs and therapies at our Argyle, Texas, rehab center, including:
- Residential treatment programs
- Group therapy
- Poly-addiction treatment
At Santé Center for Healing, we use a whole-person approach to treatment. This model incorporates therapy, medication, and the principles of the 12-step program. We also offer a range of amenities and activities.
Don’t let your alcohol problem drag your life through the mud. Seek help at a caring, reliable rehab center. Contact Santé Center for Healing at 866-238-3154 to learn more about our services.