Arielle Cruz
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic, relapsing disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. The road to recovery from AUD is often challenging and requires ongoing persistence and support. While rehab can be a crucial first step towards sobriety, it is not the only option for everyone. Overcoming AUD can be achieved through various treatments, including behavioural therapy, medication, support groups, and self-guided programs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Treatment options | Rehab, therapy, self-directed treatment, medication, behavioural treatment, support groups, online self-guided programs |
| Treatment considerations | Severity of condition, treatment must be customized to individual problems and situation, persistence is key |
| Support | Friends, family, healthcare providers, counselors, other recovering alcoholics, faith community, couples counselling, family therapy, recovery support groups, healthcare providers |
| Relapse | Relapse is common, but not indicative of failure; it is an opportunity to learn and recommit to sobriety |
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What You'll Learn
Support groups and social networks
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a well-known support group that can be beneficial for those seeking to overcome alcoholism. Regular attendance at meetings can provide a sense of community and connection with others who understand the challenges of alcoholism. Sharing experiences and learning from others' journeys to sobriety can be healing and empowering.
For those who are reluctant to turn to loved ones due to past disappointments or conflicts, couples or family therapy can be a good starting point to rebuild trust and strengthen relationships. Support groups for family members, such as Al-Anon and Alateen, are also available to provide guidance and emotional support for teens and adults affected by a loved one's drinking.
Building a sober social network is crucial, especially if one's previous social life was heavily centered around alcohol. Making new connections with individuals who support sobriety can help create a healthier environment and reduce the risk of relapse.
Online communities and e-health tools can also provide support and guidance for those unable or unwilling to attend in-person meetings. These digital resources offer flexibility and anonymity, allowing individuals to access help from the comfort of their homes.
While support groups are invaluable, it is important to remember that recovery is a highly individualized process. Each person's needs and circumstances are unique, so finding a treatment program that feels right and addresses specific challenges is essential. Overcoming alcoholism is an ongoing process that often involves setbacks and relapses, but with persistence, the right support, and a strong social network, long-term recovery is achievable.
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Therapy and counselling
Behavioural treatment focuses on counselling to change drinking behaviour. Counselling can be accessed through rehab programs, or independently through addiction counsellors or psychologists. Couples counselling or family therapy can also be beneficial, as AUD not only affects the person drinking but also their families and loved ones. Support from friends and family members can be important in overcoming AUD, but they may be unsure how to provide support. Groups for family and friends, such as Alateen, can be a good starting point.
In addition to therapy and counselling, medication can be prescribed to address withdrawal symptoms and make the recovery process safer and less distressing. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration has approved naltrexone and acamprosate as alcohol use disorder treatments, and topiramate and gabapentin can decrease cravings in some people.
Online self-guided programs and e-health tools have also been shown to help people overcome alcohol problems. Support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), can provide healing and connection with others who understand what you are going through. Building a sober social network is important, especially if your previous social life revolved around alcohol.
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Medication
Naltrexone is a prescription medication available in oral (Revia) and long-acting injectable (Vivitrol) forms. It acts as an antagonist of opioid receptors in the brain, reducing the positive reinforcement associated with alcohol use and decreasing cravings. The injected form of naltrexone produces the same results as the oral version, blocking the "feel-good" response caused by alcohol. Healthcare professionals may recommend naltrexone once a month for individuals who have difficulty taking the pill regularly.
Acamprosate (Campral) is another prescription medication that may help prevent individuals who have stopped drinking from relapsing. While the precise mechanism of acamprosate is not fully understood, it is believed to restore the balance of certain neurotransmitters in the brain that becomes disrupted due to chronic alcohol use, thereby reducing cravings. Acamprosate can be started even while an individual is still drinking, but it is more effective when initiated after abstinence.
Disulfiram (Antabuse) is a prescription drug that helps prevent a return to alcohol use after an individual has quit. It blocks a liver enzyme responsible for breaking down acetaldehyde, a byproduct of alcohol metabolism. When an individual taking disulfiram consumes alcohol, the buildup of acetaldehyde in the blood causes unpleasant symptoms such as flushing, nausea, vomiting, rapid heart rate, and headache. However, disulfiram has inconsistent evidence supporting its effectiveness, and it is contraindicated in pregnancy, severe heart disease, psychosis, and liver disease. Rare cases of severe liver damage associated with disulfiram have been reported.
Topiramate and gabapentin are anticonvulsant medications that may reduce alcohol ingestion. While these drugs can be beneficial, long-term studies on their effectiveness are lacking. It is important to note that medication alone may not be sufficient for a successful recovery. Changing one's mindset and lifestyle, along with social support, are crucial components of overcoming alcoholism.
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Relapse and recovery
Relapse is a common occurrence in the recovery journey from alcohol addiction. It is important to understand that a relapse is not a sign of weakness or failure but a continuation of old coping patterns that need to be replaced with new ones. Up to 90% of people recovering from alcohol addiction relapse at least once before taking full control of their addiction. Relapses can be triggered by stress or unpleasant life situations, and it is important to create a calm and positive environment for the person recovering to prevent a relapse.
To prevent a relapse, it is crucial to identify the warning signs and behaviours that indicate a change in attitude towards alcohol. These may include withdrawing from social interactions and other underlying emotional and psychological causes. It is important to talk regularly with the person recovering to notice these behaviours early on and work through them. Creating an environment conducive to sobriety is essential, which may include removing alcohol-related items from the home, encouraging new hobbies and activities, and providing a supportive listening ear during cravings or difficult moments.
For those in recovery, it is important to build a sober social network and connect with others who understand their situation, such as through support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Self-care practices such as maintaining a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and practising meditation, mindfulness, or yoga can also help prevent relapse. Additionally, seeking professional help through therapy or counselling can provide valuable guidance and support.
If a relapse occurs, it is crucial to act quickly. Remove any remaining alcohol from the home and encourage the person to call their sponsor, therapist, or a supportive friend. Offer love and support without being pushy or making the person feel guilty, as this could add to their stress and increase the risk of continued alcohol use. Encourage the person to reflect on their progress and remind them that a minor blip doesn't have to undo all their hard work.
In conclusion, relapse is a common part of the recovery journey from alcohol addiction. With the right support and strategies, a relapse can be an opportunity to learn and recommit to sobriety. By creating a positive environment, building a sober social network, practising self-care, and seeking professional help, individuals can increase their chances of long-term recovery and reduce the risk of relapse.
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Residential rehab
During residential rehab, individuals undergo a comprehensive assessment to understand their addiction, overall health, and any co-occurring mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. This assessment helps tailor the treatment plan to their unique needs. The treatment plan typically includes medical stabilization, detoxification, and a combination of therapies to address the physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of addiction.
Medical stabilization is an important first step, especially for individuals with severe alcohol use disorder, as it helps manage life-threatening withdrawal symptoms such as delirium tremens (DT), seizures, and hallucinations. This is followed by detoxification, which is a crucial process in recovery, allowing the body to rid itself of harmful substances while managing withdrawal symptoms in a safe and controlled environment.
The cost of residential rehab can vary depending on factors such as location, the level of clinical care provided, and the length of the program. Some insurance policies may cover a portion of the treatment costs, but it is important to check with the insurance provider for specific coverage details. Additionally, some rehab centres may offer complimentary return stays if an individual relapses within a certain period after completing the program.
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Frequently asked questions
No, there are several ways to overcome alcoholism. Rehab is one of the options, but you can also opt for therapy, self-guided treatment, medication, or support groups.
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. Symptoms include craving beverages containing alcohol, continuing to drink despite negative consequences, drinking more or longer than intended, spending a lot of time drinking or recovering from hangovers, and repeatedly failing to meet obligations due to drinking.
Treatment options include rehab or residential treatment, behavioural treatment or therapy, medication, and support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Support from friends and family is also crucial, and healthcare providers can recommend further resources.
The severity of your condition will determine whether you need rehab. If you have a severe or moderate alcohol use disorder, your healthcare provider may recommend inpatient medical treatment or residential rehab. They can also help you evaluate the pros and cons of each treatment setting.
A relapse occurs when someone starts drinking again after a period of sobriety. It is important to remember that relapse does not mean failure, and each relapse is an opportunity to learn and recommit to sobriety. To prevent a relapse, get rid of alcohol and remove yourself from tempting settings. Build a sober social network and lean on your support system of friends, family, and counsellors.
