What is alcohol use disorder? How to treat alcoholism
However, even a mild disorder can escalate and lead to serious problems, so early treatment is important. If you or someone you know is living with an AUD, the good news is that there are many different treatment options, and your doctor can help you choose the best one for you. They may recommend detoxification, medication, or relapse prevention training.
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)
12-step facilitation therapy is an engagement strategy used in counseling sessions to increase an individual’s active involvement in 12-step-based mutual-support groups. Regular heavy drinking can seriously affect a person’s ability to coordinate their muscles and speak properly. They spend a lot of time thinking about alcohol and cannot control how much they consume, even if it is causing serious problems financially and at home or work. Drugs used for other conditions — like smoking, pain, or epilepsy — also may help with alcohol use disorder.
Connect with NIMH
- An alcohol use disorder is a chronic brain condition in which a person loses the ability to control their alcohol use, even when faced with social, professional, or health consequences.
- Setbacks can be common, so you will want to know how they are addressed.
- This is of particular concern when you’re taking certain medications that also depress the brain’s function.
- In recovery, the person’s relationships with others can be improved as they maintain the ability to keep up with daily responsibilities and activities.
- These programs may take place in residential or hospital settings.
- Below are samples of e-health tools developed with NIAAA funding.
The evaluation consists of 11 yes or no questions that are intended to be used as an informational tool to assess the severity and probability of a substance use disorder. The test is free, confidential, and no personal information is needed to receive the result. Information about NIMH, research results, summaries of scientific meetings, and mental health resources. The latest information and resources on mental disorders shared on X, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
Can I Relapse After Quitting?
The problems relating to alcohol dependence are extensive, and its effects can be physical, psychological, and social. Moderate alcohol consumption does not generally cause any psychological or physical harm. However, if can alcoholism be cured someone who enjoys moderate drinking increases their consumption or regularly consumes more than the recommended quantity, AUD may eventually develop. Alcoholism is a common and different term for alcohol use disorder.
Long-term use and abuse of alcohol can lead to even more challenges, including alcoholism, as the person is unable to control alcohol use despite negative consequences. Sponsors help new members work on the 12 steps toward sobriety and offer accountability. Studies have shown that https://ecosoberhouse.com/ sponsorship leads to better treatment outcomes, and those in 12-step programs with sponsors have better attendance and more involvement in the group. Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy.
How To Treat Alcoholism
In inpatient treatment, relaxation techniques may be taught and practiced in a group setting. In outpatient treatment, patients and therapists can discuss and practice stress management, and patients may be given homework. Detox from alcohol can be medically assisted for people who may be at risk of severe withdrawal symptoms and for those who need help to complete the process.
- Nevertheless, alcohol abuse can result in severe risks to physical and mental health, and to the individual’s relationships, responsibilities, and other pursuits.
- In this disorder, people can’t stop drinking, even when drinking affects their health, puts their safety at risk and damages their personal relationships.
- But, just like with any chronic disease, a lack of symptoms does not mean the disease is cured.
- If you are in need of help for alcohol addiction, please call us or complete the short form for confidential support and assistance with entering treatment.
Treatment for Alcohol Addiction
- Comprehensive treatment gives individuals the needed tools to stay sober for the long-term and enjoy productive lives despite the disorder.
- Research shows that most people who have alcohol problems are able to reduce their drinking or quit entirely.
- People who’re dependent on alcohol may need to learn skills and coping mechanisms to help avoid alcohol once you leave a treatment center or return to familiar environments.
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