Alcohol addiction, also known as alcohol use disorder or alcoholism, is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Overcoming an addiction to alcohol requires proper treatment and support. The main treatment options for alcohol addiction include.
Behavioral Therapies
Behavioral therapies are designed to help change the patient’s attitudes and behaviors related to drinking. They provide strategies and skills for handling triggers, cravings, and peer pressure to drink. Common behavioral therapies for alcoholism include cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational enhancement therapy, marital and family counseling, and 12-step facilitation therapy. These therapies can be done individually, in groups, with family members, or in a specialized rehab facility. Developing coping skills and changing behavior patterns are key to overcoming alcohol addiction.
Medication Assisted Therapy
Certain medications can be used in combination with other treatment methods in medication assisted therapy, to help people stop drinking, stay sober, and prevent relapse. These medications work by blocking the euphoric effects of alcohol, reducing cravings and other withdrawal symptoms, or inducing an unpleasant reaction to drinking alcohol.
Medications used for alcohol addiction include:
- Disulfiram – Causes a severe reaction when mixed with alcohol
- Naltrexone – Blocks the euphoric and sedative effects of alcohol
- Acamprosate – Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms
- Topiramate – Reduces drinking by reducing cravings
Medication assisted therapy has been shown to be more effective for alcohol addiction recovery than placebo medications or no pharmaceutical aid. However, medications are most effective when combined with counseling and behavioral therapies.
Support Groups
Joining a support group can provide the ongoing support needed to stay sober. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is the most well-known alcohol support group worldwide. AA and similar 12-step programs provide a structured path to recovery through the 12 steps. Meetings are facilitated by peers who have gone through recovery themselves. Support groups provide a community of understanding as well as a way to share experiences and advice. For many recovering alcoholics, attending meetings becomes a way of life.
Inpatient vs Outpatient Programs
Inpatient treatment programs require staying at a rehab facility for 24/7 monitoring and care. This intensive level of care is often required for long-term heavy drinkers and those with co-occurring disorders. Outpatient programs offer more flexibility for those with jobs, school, or family commitments. The level of care required depends on the severity of addiction. Many treatment programs provide both inpatient and outpatient options.
A combination of therapies, support systems, lifestyle changes, and persistence is needed to overcome alcohol addiction. There are many options available, and treatment should be tailored to the individual.
Relapse is common in recovery from alcohol addiction. If a relapse occurs, it is important not to get discouraged but to get back on track with treatment. Many people go through multiple attempts at sobriety before achieving long-term recovery. Ongoing support and aftercare following initial treatment can help minimize the likelihood of relapse. Overall, there is hope for recovering from alcoholism with the right mix of professional treatment, peer support, lifestyle changes, and determination.
With proper treatment, even severe alcoholism can be overcome. The first step is seeking help.
