Alcoholism Treatments, also referred to as alcohol use disorder, is a condition where an individual experiences a persistent urge to drink alcohol with no control over how much they drink. Alcohol abuse can cause some serious changes in the brain, making it difficult for the person to quit. However, with the right treatment and support, it is possible to completely recover from alcoholism.
With the increasing availability of addiction treatment centers, rehab facilities, and clinics, getting necessary support and treatment for alcoholism has become a lot easier. If you are eligible for TRICARE benefits, you can also get TRICARE-approved alcoholism treatment options in your area. But first, you need to learn if you suffer from alcoholism or not.
How to Find Out If You Have Alcohol Use Disorder?
People who struggle with alcohol use disorder or alcoholism show the following symptoms:
- Persistent urge to have a drink
- Not being able to control how much they drink
- Feeling bad when they cannot drink
If you notice yourself or a loved one having these symptoms, you must consult a doctor. Your healthcare provider will be able to help with the diagnosis and tell you whether you have severe alcoholism or a milder version of it.
Consulting with a doctor also helps you figure out a recovery plan based on your goals. Whether you are trying to drink less or quit drinking entirely, the healthcare provider can create a treatment plan that aligns with your recovery goals and even suggest treatment centers and experts who can help.
What Treatment Options Are Available for People with Alcoholism?
The right treatment option for alcoholism depends on your goals and situation. In some cases, a combination of different treatment options works best for individuals. Let’s explore all the options available to common people with alcohol use disorders.
Detoxification
It is important to note that detoxification is not a treatment by itself. However, it is a key step in treating an individual with severe alcohol use disorder. The primary goal of this process is to quit drinking and allow your body to get rid of alcohol from the system. It generally takes about a few days to a week.
It is important to get the detoxification done in a medical facility under the supervision of medical professionals. Since detox is followed by some withdrawal symptoms, doctors and experts can keep an eye on you and offer necessary medication or care to help you with the symptoms. There are two major ways to go through a detoxification process:
- Inpatient Programs: This option is ideal for people with severe cases of alcoholism. It is a residential treatment program where the patient needs to stay full-time in a hospital, detox center, or clinic. The person receives 24-hour support and care during the withdrawal phase.
- Outpatient Programs: In this treatment plan, you visit your healthcare provider for treatment at a scheduled time, return home, and perform all your duties and responsibilities. It is suggested for people with mild or moderate alcoholism.
When you consult with a healthcare provider, they usually create a treatment plan for you based on your recovery needs.
Visit a Therapist or Counselor
Once you complete your alcohol rehabilitation, you must see a therapist or counselor. These experts help you learn new skills and strategies to help you maintain sobriety and recover from alcoholism. These professionals can help you teach:
- How to manage stress and other triggers
- How to change habits that compel you to have a drink
- Set goals and achieve them
- Build a strong network of support
Your healthcare provider will suggest what type of therapy will work best for your treatment. If your alcoholism has had a big effect on your loved ones, couples or family therapy can be useful.
Medications
Apart from learning new coping skills and strategies to maintain sobriety, you may also need to manage certain symptoms of alcohol withdrawal with prescribed medications. It is important to note that no medicine in the world can cure alcoholism. However, it is possible to recover from it. Based on your recovery goals, your healthcare provider may suggest a combination of therapy and medication.
Conclusion
The treatment for alcoholism depends on a number of factors. Even after you complete your detox, therapies, and medication, you may still need aftercare support to prevent relapses. Stay in touch with your healthcare providers and follow their advice to fulfill your recovery goals.
