Most Effective Treatment for Alcoholism

Alcoholism continues to be the dominant reason for rehab admissions in America.  While there has been a lot of attention focused in recent years on the opioid crisis, alcohol addiction represents 80% of the individuals suffering from a substance use disorder, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Alliance.  Because of the strong genetic component to the disease, with over half of U.S. adults having a family history of alcohol use disorders, alcoholism rates just keep moving up.

Continued alcohol abuse can contribute to multiple health conditions, cognitive impairment, relationship problems, and employment difficulties.  These serious consequences can include dementia, heart disease, serious mood disorders, increased cancer risk, liver disease, gastrointestinal problems, social problems like divorce, violence, loss of job, and crime.  When the problem of drinking escalates and, over time, becomes alcohol dependence, the disorder becomes life threatening.

Treatment for alcoholism continues to be tweaked and refined, as new medications are trialed and new psychotherapy methods tested.  The most effective treatment for alcoholism involves a mix of approaches that are tailored for the unique needs of the individual and features of their alcohol addiction.  By personalizing treatment to align with the specific needs of the individual, alcoholism treatment will become increasingly effective.

Signs of an Alcohol Use Disorder

Even though alcohol is such an intrinsic part of our culture, it has the potential to become a threat to wellbeing of some.  Some individuals have a high tolerance level for alcohol and can consume large quantities before feeling its effects. These individuals may be predisposed to alcoholism, as regular high consumption of alcohol can lead to addiction.

In many people, alcohol addiction sneaks up stealthily.  For the longest time drinking may have been manageable, then suddenly it isn’t.  Often, people just deny they have a problem, even if others can clearly detect their friend or loved one spiraling into addiction.

There are some general signs that drinking habits have evolved into an alcohol use disorder:

• Drinking alone or in secrecy
• Drinking much more than you originally intended
• Mood swings
• Losing interest in activities once considered enjoyable
• Creating reasons to drink, such as to provide relief for a stressful day or to aid symptoms of depression or anxiety
• Continue to drink even though it is causing negative consequences in life
• Experiencing blackouts
• Irritability
• Feeling hungover when you don’t drink
• Neglecting responsibilities and choosing to drink more
• Isolating from family and friends
• Engaging in high risk behaviors
• The trouble with the law, such as a DUI
• Cravings for alcohol

Considerations for Alcohol Addiction Treatment

When it is time to seek treatment for an alcohol problem there are several important things to consider.  With so many rehab options it is easy to feel overwhelmed by all the choices available.

Detox.  Alcohol detox can be tricky, as withdrawal symptoms are often unpredictable.  Because of the risk of a serious event during alcohol detox, it is always advisable to undertake the process in a monitored detox program.  The trained detox team will be vigilant in monitoring vital signs as a proactive measure as withdrawal symptoms emerge. Medications will help manage the uncomfortable symptoms and help the individual safely complete the process.

Treatment.  There are two basic rehab formats available, inpatient and outpatient programs.  From there, options to consider are couples programs, pet-friendly rehabs, luxury rehabs, faith-based rehabs, and more.

Inpatient rehab

An inpatient program, where one will reside, is always recommended for those with a long history of heavy alcohol use, and the program may need to be 3-6 months in duration for the best recovery outcomes. This is because it takes that long for the brain to heal, for the brain chemistry to normalize, and for other lingering withdrawal symptoms to fade.  Leaving rehab too soon can result in a higher risk of relapse.

Outpatient rehab

An outpatient program is less structured and allows for the individual to reside at home during the treatment period, outside of therapy hours.  Outpatient programs are best suited for mild or recent alcohol use disorders. Therapy requirements vary based on the individual’s particular treatment needs.

The Most Effective Treatment for Alcoholism

Although each person’s treatment needs will vary, there are certain evidence-based approaches that have been clinically proven to help with alcohol use disorders.  These include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy
• Contingency management
• Motivational enhancement therapy
• Dialectical behavior therapy

What these all have in common is that they are about changing behaviors.  Clients learn new ways to frame their thoughts and responses in a more productive manner, and this can be achieved through the various means available in the different modalities.

Using naltrexone for 6-12 months following detox can help reduce alcohol cravings and in turn lead to fewer relapse events.

Therapeutic activities that promote relaxation are important in fortifying recovery.  These healthy habits and holistic activities can enhance the effects of talk therapy. These might include daily exercise, yoga, meditation, mindfulness exercises, journaling, and deep breathing techniques.

The Importance of a Support System

Another important component of effective treatment for alcoholism is social support.  Engaging immediate family members and close friends in the commitment to living a sober lifestyle can be powerful.  These individuals care and want you to succeed in recovery. In addition, regular weekly group therapy sessions are another effective source of peer support, where a therapist can lead the group in various topics of discussion, and ideas and experiences can be exchanged.  Some people enjoy 12-step or some alternative recovery group meetings for fellowship and being held accountable to others. All these sources of support can help the individual shore up their recovery.

Golf Drug Rehab Provides the Most Effective Treatment for Alcoholism

Golf Drug Rehab is a leading alcohol treatment program that offers an upscale recovery environment.  Situated in the tranquil community of Dana Point, California, Golf Drug Rehab combines expert addiction treatment with high-end amenities, including access to three superb golf courses for recreational therapy.

Golf Drug Rehab offers the most effective treatment for alcoholism available.  Detox, evidence-based behavioral therapies, naltrexone pellet therapy, a two-week rehab program up to several months in length, and a large selection of luxurious amenities make Golf Drug Rehab a first-class addiction program.  For more details about the program, please contact Golf Drug Rehab today at (877) 958-5320.