Drinking is such a common everyday activity that you may not notice when you cross the line that defines you as an alcohol addict who is in need of alcohol treatment. When you realise that you rely on alcohol to function both physically and mentally, then you have become an alcohol addict. Alcohol treatment therefore aims to eliminate your dependency on alcohol.
Alcohol addiction exposes you to health, social and drug problems. You may develop liver, kidney and heart complications which may be fatal. You become socially challenged as your personal relationships, performance at work and school suffer; and you even run into problems with the law. As an alcohol addict, you are also in danger of developing drug addiction.
The following reasons may drive you to become an alcohol addict:
1. Genetic predisposition
If you have a history of alcoholism in your family line, then you are genetically predisposed to developing an addiction to alcohol; this is also dependent on your upbringing, social environment and emotional health.
2. Painful memories
You may consume alcohol excessively to supress painful events you may have experienced.
3. State of mind
If you are suffering from mental illness such as depression and panic attacks; and you are using alcohol to self medicate, you are at a risk of developing alcoholism.
4. Peer pressure
If the company you keep indulges in excessive drinking, you may develop an addiction.
The length of an alcohol treatment program will depend on the severity of your alcohol addiction. You will go through the following basic steps in most alcohol treatment prorams, that will put you on the track to sobriety:
- Detoxification
- Counselling
- Aftercare
Physical dependence on alcohol is addressed by detoxification which aims to cleanse your body off the toxins that have build up due to alcohol consumption. This process results in extremely uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms and is therefore carried out by medical professionals and cousellors to make it safe and bearable.
Psychological dependence is addressed by counselling.For this to be effective you must be completely open and honest during therapy sessions. This is the only way that the cousellor will determine the root cause of your alcohol addiction, and help you deal with it. Individual counselling will help you confront your past issues and develop better coping skills. Group sessions are also offered, where you will meet recovering addicts like yourself. This is a great forum to share experiences and develop a support network.
Aftercare will help you keep on the right track, to avoid relapse. You need to surround yourself with people who understand what you are going through as a recovering addict. It is therefore important that you continue therapy, attend your weekly support group meetings and strictly follow the relapse prevention program that you were taken through by your counsellors.
The most crucial time after completing your alcohol treatment program are the first few months. But, remember, the battle against alcohol addiction is a life long commitment and you will always need your support system to ensure that you remain sober.
If you or someone you know needs help with alcohol addiction or finding an alcohol treatment center, please call our toll free confidential hotline at (888) 842-3167 . We’re here to help, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
