alcohol detox programs

Alcohol Detox Programs Near Me

Has your drinking habit escalated to a point you are no longer comfortable with? If so, it is time to consider checking into an alcohol detox program and get your life back on track.

Nearly 7% of American adults struggle with an alcohol use disorder, meaning 15 million people have a drinking problem. Of all abused psychoactive substances, those which cause altered consciousness, alcohol abuse is the most prevalent. The good news is that it is possible to overcome alcoholism and lead a full, healthy life.

How Alcohol Abuse Turns Into Alcoholism

While true that not everyone who engages in alcohol abuse will become an alcoholic, a certain number of drinkers do. Why is that? Science has not yet provided clear answers as to why some people become addicted to alcohol while others don’t.

However, there are some risk factors that increase the chances that someone may develop a drinking problem. These factors include:

  • The age you started drinking. The younger you begin experimenting with alcohol, the higher the risk of becoming an alcoholic in adulthood. In those who started drinking at age 14, 47% developed alcohol dependence vs. 7% in those who first drank at age 21.
  • Family history of alcoholism. While a specific gene has not yet been found, just being exposed to heavy drinking in the family can predispose a young person to alcohol abuse later.
  • Poor coping skills. Someone with undeveloped coping skills may lack the resilience needed to bounce back from negative events in life. They may gravitate toward alcohol as a maladaptive coping tool.
  • Mental health disorder. Those who struggle with mental health challenges are more prone to using alcohol as a way to self-medicate. This can become habitual and evolve into alcoholism.

As tolerance to the effects of alcohol increases, so does your drinking. You’ll notice that over time it takes more alcohol to achieve the effects you once enjoyed. Meanwhile, the brain’s neurotransmitters begin to adjust in response to the consistent presence of alcohol. This changes the neural pathways and sets the stage for alcohol dependence.

Signs of Alcohol Use Disorder

You may not be sure if you actually have a drinking problem. These questions can help you identify any signs of alcohol use disorder you might have:

  • Do you drink more or for a longer period than you intended?
  • Do you hide alcohol bottles to prevent people from finding out about your drinking habits?
  • Do you ever want to drink so badly that you cannot think of anything else?
  • Have you tried to cut down on alcohol, or stop drinking, but couldn’t?
  • Do you have blackouts?
  • Do you spend a lot of time drinking, or getting over the effects of drinking?
  • Does your drinking prevent you from taking care of your daily responsibilities at home or at work?
  • Do you continue to drink even though it is causing distress in your relationships?
  • Have you chosen drinking over spending time on activities you used to enjoy?
  • Has your drinking caused you to endanger your health or well-being through impulsive or reckless actions?
  • Do you continue to drink even though it makes you depressed or anxious?
  • Do you find yourself drinking more alcohol to get the effects you want?
  • Do you have withdrawal symptoms when the effects of the alcohol wear off?

How Long Are Alcohol Detox Programs

If you answered, “yes” to two or more of those questions, you meet the criteria for alcohol use disorder. This means it is time to search for an alcohol detox program that best meets your needs.

If your alcoholism is moderate to severe, you will need to be guided through detox and withdrawal by a medical detox team. Alcohol withdrawal can be unpredictable, so it is important to be supported through this first step of recovery.

During detox, you will experience three stages of withdrawal, each with its own features. The three phases involve the following:

  • Early phase. On days 1-2 withdrawal symptoms may include:
    • Sweating
    • Shaking
    • Nausea and vomiting
    • Irritability
    • Anxiety
    • Insomnia
  • Peak phase. Withdrawal symptoms peak on days 2-4 and may include:
    • Elevated blood pressure
    • Irregular heart rate
    • Elevated body temperature
    • Increased respiration
    • Mental confusion
    • Mood disturbances
    • Agitation
    • Hallucinations
    • Seizures
    • Delirium tremens (rare)
  • Final phase. On days 5-7 withdrawal symptoms begin to subside. Residual withdrawal symptoms might include:
    • Depression
    • Anxiety
    • Sleep disturbances
    • Cravings

Consider Treatment Options

After detox, you will begin the treatment phase of recovery. This is when you will learn how to remain sober, and how to rebuild your life in recovery. To accomplish this you will engage in a variety of therapies and activities to help you build new coping skills.

There are two types of treatment settings to consider:

Outpatient rehab. An outpatient treatment setting is a good fit for someone who has been proactive in addressing the drinking problem early on. You will reside at home, and then attend several hours of treatment programming weekly at an outpatient center.

Residential rehab. A residential treatment setting provides on-site housing and 24-hour support. This is a good fit for someone with a more advanced drinking problem who needs an intensive, structured program.

How to Stay Sober in Recovery After Alcohol Detox and Treatment Program

Sustaining sobriety is the challenge in recovery. To aid this goal, consider adding some of these activities to your routine:

  1. Take up golf. Grab a sober foursome and hit the fairways. Golf gets you outside in the fresh air and exposes you to plenty of sunshine, and time to socialize.
  2. Join a cycling club. Another great outdoor hobby is taking up cycling. Whether it is a street bike or a mountain bike, there are groups for both types.
  3. Start a garden. Starting plants from seed and watching them grow and bear fruit or vegetables is a meaningful and productive hobby.
  4. Volunteer. Volunteer for a favorite cause or lend a hand at a local charity. Volunteering is a great way to gain a new sense of purpose in recovery.
  5. Tackle a home project. Whether your passion is decorating or DIY home projects, there are plenty of ways to apply those hobbies in recovery.

Golf Drug Rehab Alcohol Detox Program

Golf Drug Rehab is a luxury coastal addiction recovery program that offers the added benefit of golf therapy. If you are ready to enter an alcohol detox program and treatment, please reach out today at (877) 958-5320.

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Hiding Alcohol Bottles and Containers from Family at Home

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If you have been finding alcohol bottles in unlikely locations in the home, you probably have an alcoholic family member. Hiding alcohol bottles around the house is a common practice among those who try to cover up a drinking problem.

This is because, as the alcohol abuse escalates, the family member becomes more obsessed about having the stash on hand. By hiding it in closets, cupboards, or dresser drawers, they obscure the drinking problem while assuring access to their supply.

This practice is a classic sign of alcohol use disorder (AUD). Read on to learn more about how to tell if a family member has a drinking problem.

Alcohol Use Disorder Explained

AUD is a condition that features the different phases of disease caused by disordered drinking habits. The longer you engage in chronic excessive drinking, the better the chances that you will develop alcohol dependence or addiction.

Alcohol dependence impacts mental and physical health, relationships, career, and finances. Becoming dependent on alcohol means that the brain has been altered over time in response to continuous exposure to alcohol.

A clear sign you have become dependent on the substance is the emergence of withdrawal symptoms when the alcohol wears off. Withdrawal symptoms include:

  • Shaking
  • Stomach pain.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Hand tremors.
  • Headache
  • Sweating
  • Irritability
  • Insomnia

Alcohol addiction is the most severe form of AUD. Addiction is both a behavioral disorder and a brain disease. When someone develops alcohol addiction they lose control over the compulsive drinking. They are not able to quit drinking on their own. This happens when the brain’s reward system prompts the person to repeat the drinking over and over. They are then ensnared in the addiction cycle.

This loss of control over the compulsion to drink is the main difference between addiction and dependence. It means that, despite the negative consequences of drinking, they continue to drink anyway.

Hiding Alcohol Bottles and Other Signs of Alcoholism

AUD is graded from mild to moderate to severe, depending on how many of the traits are present. The common signs of AUD include:

  • Their tolerance to alcohol increases over time, which leads to more consumption.
  • They plan their days around drinking. You obsess over maintaining a supply of available liquor.
  • They express feelings of guilt about their drinking.
  • They stop caring about your appearance.
  • They miss work more often.
  • Their relationships start to suffer.
  • They lie about how much you drink or hide alcohol bottles around the house.
  • They engage in high-risk behaviors, such as driving under the influence or risky sexual practices.
  • They have frequent mood swings.
  • They neglect your duties.
  • They are more irritable.
  • They have sleep disturbances.
  • They experience mounting consequences from heavy drinking.
  • They say they want to quit or cut back, but can’t.
  • When they do attempt to quit, withdrawal symptoms emerge that make them very sick.

Ways to Overcome Barriers to Treatment

Many people with a serious drinking problem do realize it, but resist the idea of going to rehab. Some of the common barriers to getting help include:

  • Facing detox. The thought of going through detox can be scary. Help them focus on the bigger picture, that detox is only for a few days.
  • Finding the time. They may find it hard to carve out a chunk of time to go off to rehab. There are job constraints and childcare issues that make this a major challenge. Suggest an outpatient program as an option.
  • Fearing stigma. The social stigma that exists around substance abuse is very real. They may fear losing their job or damage to their reputation. It takes courage to do the right thing for your health and your family.
  • High cost of treatment. The cost of rehab is a legitimate concern for many, especially for those who lack health insurance. Check with the insurance plan to see what it will cover – they may be surprised. If they don’t have insurance, look into payment plans or scholarship funds.

Helping a Family Member Prepare for Rehab

Once you approach your family member about the hidden bottles of alcohol you found, offer to assist them in getting treatment. Here are some ways you can help them get started in this quest to get help:

  • Check insurance coverage. If your family member seems overwhelmed by the costs of rehab, offer to call their insurer to ask for details. Contact their provider to ask what the plan covers, and what the estimated out of pocket expense is.
  • Learn about the disease. Make an effort to learn about their substance use disorder. The more you understand about the addiction, the more equipped you will be to offer your support.
  • Help them plan for rehab. The family needs to come together to support the loved one. Help them plan the logistics of rehab, such as taking a leave from work. They may need help planning for childcare or paying their bills while they are in treatment.
  • Offer to help them enroll in the rehab. Some may find it scary and overwhelming to enter treatment, especially an inpatient rehab. Offer to join them in a meeting with the intake team, taking a tour of the center, or just sitting in the lobby. They may just need the moral support you can provide.
  • Plan an intervention. If you are not able to convince your family member that they need treatment, consider planning an intervention. These are rehearsed meetings between the alcoholic and their close family members, spouse, or friends. An addiction expert helps plan the intervention and will guide the family members through the meeting.

It is never too early to get help for a growing problem with alcohol. Help your loved one get the life saving treatment they deserve.

Golf Drug Rehab Luxury Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder

Golf Drug Rehab is an upscale addiction treatment center that integrates golf therapy into the treatment elements. If you have a family member who is hiding alcohol bottles around the house, please reach out to us. Call us today at (877) 958-5320.

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Why Am I Always Feeling Hungover?

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Why Do I Feel Like I’ve Got A Constant Hangover?

You wake up to yet another day of feeling yucky and tired. Maybe you feel nauseous, or maybe you have a splitting headache. If you find yourself moaning, “Why am I always feeling hungover?” then it’s time to review your drinking habits.

When you are socializing it is easy to lose track of how much alcohol you are consuming. In fact, you may not even be aware that your friend keeps topping off your wine glass. But there is a limit as to how much alcohol the liver can metabolize. When we exceed that limit we pay the price the next day.

What Is a Hangover?

A hangover is a physical and mental evidence of drinking more than your body can safely handle. Hangovers are really just mild withdrawal symptoms. As the body is going through the steps to process the alcohol, it lets you know it isn’t happy.

Hangover symptoms might include:

  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Excessive thirst and dry mouth.
  • Sensitivity to light and sounds.
  • Shakiness
  • Dizziness or a sensation that the room is spinning.
  • Muscle aches
  • Irritability
  • Mental confusion.
  • Decreased concentration.
  • Sleep disturbance.
  • Feelings of anxiety, called “hangxiety.”

To help soothe the symptoms and not always feeling hungover, you should drink plenty of water. Gatorade can also help, as it will replace electrolytes. Over-the-counter meds, like Tylenol for a headache, and Pepto-Bismol can relieve stomach distress.

How Does the Body Process Alcohol?

Each person will process alcohol differently. Things like body-mass index, sex, alcohol, and tolerance impact the rate that the alcohol is metabolized. To provide guidance for safe drinking rates, the CDC has established guidelines. These include:

  • Safe drinking: One drink per day for women; two drinks per day for men.
  • Excessive drinking: Eight or more drinks in a week for women; 15 or more drinks in a week for men.
  • Binge drinking: Four or more drinks in a single session for women; 5 or more drinks in a single session for men.

A drink equates to a 12-ounce beer, 8 ounces of malt liquor, 5 ounces of wine, or 1½ ounces of liquor. The legal blood alcohol limit in the U.S. is .08.

The reason for these safety guidelines is that excessive alcohol consumption impairs motor coordination, reflex response time, judgment, and self-control. It takes the human body about an hour to process a half-ounce of alcohol. When the intake exceeds that level, the liver becomes overwhelmed, which could even result in alcohol poisoning.

What Your Body Is Telling You

Alcohol overuse can trigger a variety of physiological responses. These include the inflammatory response, dehydration, irritation of the stomach lining, expansion of blood vessels, and a drop in blood sugar levels. These responses are what lead to the physical symptoms experienced in a hangover.

You may also be experiencing the effects of alcohol intolerance. This is a genetic condition caused by a missing enzyme called ALDH2. Signs of alcohol intolerance include:

  • Headache
  • Diarrhea
  • Low blood pressure.
  • Fatigue
  • Coughing
  • Chest pain.
  • Hives
  • Nasal congestion.

So, the two main reasons that could explain why you’re always feeling hungover are alcohol abuse or alcohol intolerance. To remedy both these conditions, you need to stop drinking.

What Are the Signs of Alcoholism?

The term “alcohol use disorder” (AUD) pertains to a wide span of disordered drinking patterns. Therefore, an AUD is staged from mild to severe based on the number of signs and symptoms that are present.

These are the criteria used to diagnose AUD:

  • You notice it takes more alcohol to get the desired effects.
  • You are obsessed with drinking, always thinking about getting alcohol and seeking excuses to drink.
  • You drink in response to stress or negative emotions.
  • You experience blackouts.
  • You neglect responsibilities.
  • You lie about how much you drink and hide alcohol around the house.
  • You isolate yourself from friends and family so you can drink.
  • You have problems at work, diminished work performance, and loss of a job.
  • You are having legal problems, such as getting a DUI.
  • Your drinking is negatively impacting relationships.
  • You have alcohol cravings.
  • You want to stop drinking but cannot.
  • You have withdrawal symptoms when the alcohol wears off.

Get Help for Alcoholism

If you wonder why you always feel hungover, you may be struggling with an alcohol problem. If so, why not first visit your doctor to make sure the symptoms are not related to a health issue. If they are not, then it’s time to schedule an appointment with a treatment center.

The clinical staff can guide you through an interview and assessment in order to discern whether you have AUD. During the interview, you’ll be asked questions about your health, your mental health history, and your drinking habits. The more open you are with the clinician, the more accurate the diagnosis will be.

If it is decided that you do have AUD, then they will recommend a treatment plan. If they believe you should first complete alcohol detox, then they will explain that to you. They will also recommend the correct level of care to treat your AUD.

There are basically two treatment settings to be considered. These are:

Outpatient treatment. There are two levels of outpatient care: intensive outpatient program and partial hospitalization program. Outpatient treatment offers more flexibility in terms of being able to live at home and still work to some degree. These programs are also less costly. However, outpatient treatment is a better option for someone with an emerging or mild AUD.

Residential treatment. The residential program allows you to reside at the rehab for the duration of your treatment plan. This is a better option for someone with a more advanced AUD because it provides 24-hour support and monitoring. Residential treatment features a structured environment and a full daily schedule of therapeutic activities. In this setting, you won’t have exposure to substances or to people in your life that could undermine your efforts.

If you are sick of feeling terrible every day, then go ahead and reach out for help today.

Golf Drug Rehab Provides Comprehensive Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder

Golf Drug Rehab is a luxury rehab that features golf in its menu of treatment elements. Golf therapy is an excellent way to practice new recovery skills while also getting some sunshine and exercise during treatment. If you ask, “Why am I always feeling hungover?” then let us help. Call us today at (877) 958-5320.

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alcohol recovery timeline

Walking Through the Alcohol Recovery Timeline

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Kudos are definitely in order for anyone who makes the life-changing decision to get sober. When you first embark on the recovery journey, though, it may feel a bit overwhelming. There is planning to do and plenty of decisions to make before you can even enter rehab. With this in mind, it helps to have a general understanding of what to expect in the alcohol recovery timeline.

Alcohol Detox and Withdrawal Timeline

Recovery is launched by alcohol cessation, or the decision to stop drinking. It may be tempting to handle this all on your own, but going it alone is never recommended. This is one time when you must rely on the expertise of detox experts that can provide needed support. Alcohol detox can sometimes be unpredictable, so it should always be monitored.

During alcohol detox, the withdrawal symptoms are signs of the body’s attempt to adjust to the absence of alcohol. The process follows a predictable pattern and usually takes about one week for the primary symptoms to cycle through. The detox timeline is as follows:

Days 1-2: The withdrawal symptoms begin to emerge about 6-12 hours after the last drink. The symptoms during this stage include shaking, nausea and vomiting, sweating, headache, agitation, and increased heart rate.

Days 3-4: This is the stage when symptoms peak. They may include fever, irritability, confusion, anxiety, insomnia, increase in blood pressure, and intense shaking. For a small number of people, this is the period that you may have acute symptoms, called the DTs. The DTs are considered a health emergency and involve seizures, high fever, high blood pressure, psychosis, and severe confusion.

Days 5-7: During this final stage, the symptoms gradually become less severe and many will resolve completely. However, there are often some lingering symptoms that may persist for weeks after detox is complete.

Alcohol Rehab Timeline

After finishing the detox, you will transition to the rehab stage of the alcohol recovery timeline. It is in rehab that you learn how to live your life without alcohol. This is a process that can take from one to six months or longer, depending on how severe the alcoholism is. For the best recovery results, a minimum of three months of rehab is advised.

Therapy. During rehab, you are introduced to many types of therapy. Some of these are formal types of therapy, such as psychotherapy sessions. These are meetings either with a therapist alone or group sessions with peers and an addiction counselor leading the group. Evidence-based therapies used in these sessions include CBT, DBT, CM, and MET.

Holistic. There are also holistic therapies. Some are experiential, such as art therapy or psychodrama. Others are activities that promote relaxation and help you manage stress in recovery.

12-step program. Besides these therapies, you will also learn about the 12-step program, and may even attend 12-step meetings. This is a program developed by Alcoholics Anonymous, and has been shown to help people overcome their alcohol addiction.

Wellness. To assist you in rebuilding your health and strength, you will receive nutritional counseling to learn about a healthy diet. You will also engage in physical exercise, including playing golf.

How Your Life Will Change for the Better in Alcohol Recovery

It may be hard to imagine when you are just preparing to enter rehab, but life in recovery is pretty awesome. You may dread the idea of living a sober lifestyle, thinking how boring it will be. While this is common, you will soon see that it is the opposite of reality. Living a sober life is anything but boring.

Consider the ways your life will improve:

  • You’ll look good. Alcohol is very aging to the skin. When you quit drinking you will notice an improvement in the overall appearance of your skin. As collagen is restored, your skin will become tauter and less ruddy.
  • You’ll lose some pounds. Alcoholism can lead to weight gain and bloating. An unhealthy diet coupled with calorie-rich high alcohol consumption can lead to extra fat, liver distention, and water retention. In recovery, you will lose weight and look trimmer.
  • You’ll feel good. Once your system is free from the toxins in alcohol your organs will begin the repair process. As you restore health and wellness, you will feel more energetic and focused.
  • You’ll get better sleep. Because alcohol disrupts the third and fourth phases of the sleep cycle, it causes sleep disturbance. In sobriety, you will notice you are sleeping more soundly.
  • You’ll be happier. The impact of alcohol on the brain creates emotional instability, and the consequences of alcoholism enhance feelings of shame, guilt, and anxiety. In recovery, you’ll notice you have a more positive outlook on life, along with a renewed sense of purpose.

What You Won’t Miss About Drinking

Coupled with the benefits of being sober are all the things you no longer have to deal with. These might include:

  1. Feeling terrible every day. You’ll no longer wake up feeling nauseous, and the tremors will be gone.
  2. Feeling hopeless. Alcoholism can rob you of everything you value. This makes you feel hopeless and full of despair.
  3. Feeling depressed and anxious. The more you drank to numb the symptoms of depression or anxiety, the worse the symptoms got.
  4. Having low self-esteem. Alcoholism is debilitating. It impairs you to the point you no longer are able to contribute to work or home life like before.
  5. Looking bad. The alcohol abuse caused physical changes, such as a bloated belly and face, and red, glassy eyes.
  6. Letting down your loved ones. One of the worst things about alcoholism is how you end up repeatedly letting down your family and friends.
  7. Being dishonest. In active addiction, you could not be trusted. No one could take you at your word because of all the times you deceived your loved ones.

It is a great day when you decide to change your life for the better. Embrace your new life in recovery.

Golf Drug Rehab Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder

Golf Drug Rehab is a leading treatment program for those struggling with alcoholism that features golf therapy. Let us put you on a realistic alcohol recovery timeline and guide you through the recovery process. Call our team today at (877) 958-5320.

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What Is the First Step in an Alcoholic’s Recovery?

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If you (or a loved one) are finally ready to confront an alcohol use disorder, you might wonder what is the first step in an alcoholic’s recovery. Read on to learn all about the detox and withdrawal process.

What is Alcohol Use Disorder?

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) refers to the long-term effects of continued heavy drinking. AUD is diagnosed on a continuum that ranges from mild to severe disease.

To determine if someone has an AUD, the NCADD has created an online questionnaire. It includes a list of common signs of AUD that you may recognize in yourself. The more symptoms that are present, the more severe the AUD:

  1. You avoid friends and family while drinking, preferring to drink alone.
  2. You consume higher quantities of alcohol as time goes on.
  3. You drink in response to stress, sadness, anger, or disappointment.
  4. You have hand tremors in the morning or have other withdrawal symptoms.
  5. You cannot remember things you said or did the night before.
  6. You are experiencing financial, legal, career, or family problems due to drinking.
  7. Your doctor advised you to cut down on alcohol.
  8. You lie about how much alcohol you drink.
  9. You are preoccupied during the day with drinking or crave alcohol.
  10. You get drunk several days in a row.

What Are the Signs Alcohol is Causing Harm in Your Life

There is no debate about the destructive nature of alcohol abuse. Some of the most common signs that your drinking habits are causing you to harm include:

  • Health problems. Alcohol is very toxic to the human body. Symptoms of health issues may emerge that are a direct result of heavy drinking. These include weight gain, heart problems, cognitive problems, liver disease, gastritis, and cancer.
  • Loss of job. You may lose your job, due to a decline in job performance, excessive absences, or drinking on the job. This can have far-reaching effects on your family finances.
  • Relationship problems. Alcoholism begins to demand all of your attention. As the AUD worsens, you spend more time drinking alone, and less time with your spouse and friends. This causes strain on the relationships, even leading to divorce.

first step to recovery

Preparing for the Recovery Journey

Now that you have addressed the AUD and are getting ready to begin the recovery journey, there are some items to take care of prior to the first step in alcohol recovery. These include:

  • Take an extended leave of absence. Sit down with your employer to make a plan to take a leave of absence. Your job is protected by law.
  • Look up insurance coverage. Call your health plan provider to gather the details about what your plan covers. Most health plans now have at least some coverage for addiction treatment services.
  • Select a treatment program. Begin the process of choosing a rehab program. Your doctor can help guide you in terms of what level of care you will need.
  • Arrange for childcare, pet care, and bills to be paid. Get all your ducks in a row prior to leaving for detox and rehab. This helps your spouse manage things during your absence.

The First Step in Alcohol Recovery: Alcohol Detox and Withdrawal

When starting out on the recovery journey, the first order of business is to rid the body of the toxins associated with alcohol. Detox lasts from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the severity and history of your AUD.

Alcohol detox involves three distinct stages. These stages include:

  • Stage 1: Emerging Symptoms. The early phase of withdrawal begins within 6-8 hours of the last drink. This stage lasts one day and includes the symptoms: stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, tremors, fatigue, anxiety, foggy thinking, and insomnia.
  • Stage 2: Peak Symptoms. The second phase of withdrawal involves symptoms peaking and lasts 2-4 days. Symptoms include increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, body temperature, and respiratory rate, mental confusion, sweating, mood swings, and irritability. Also, it is during this stage that delirium tremens (DTs) can develop, causing hallucinations, severe mental confusion, fever, and seizures.
  • Stage 3: Subsiding Symptoms. The final stage begins after day four and can persist for a couple of days to weeks. This stage is marked by depression, anxiety, confusion, insomnia, and cravings.

Keep in mind that throughout the detox process, your symptoms will be closely monitored and medications provided to minimize discomfort.

After Detox, What Comes Next?

Once you have completed the detox process, you are ready to enroll in the rehab portion of the recovery. Treatment is multi-pronged, with each activity building on the other to effect real change. Here is what you can expect in the rehab program:

  • Psychotherapy. Therapy is the main treatment element for alcohol recovery. Through therapy, you will examine any unhealthy behavior patterns that only perpetuate the alcohol addiction. Using CBT, the therapist guides you to reshape those thoughts and behaviors.
  • Family therapy. Family groups help the whole family unit heal and move forward together as their loved one enters recovery.
  • Education. Learning about the impact of alcohol on brain chemistry can be a deterrent to relapse. You will also be learning new coping tools and making a relapse prevention plan.
  • 12-step or similar. Peer support is a key element in recovery, and these meetings provide the opportunity to share experiences, challenges, fears, and goals with others in recovery.
  • Holistic. Rounding out rehabilitation are several activities that augment psychotherapy, including mindfulness training, yoga, art therapy, acupuncture, recreational therapy, equine therapy, and other activities that teach individuals relaxation techniques
  • Recreational therapy. Golf can be a very therapeutic addition to the rehab process. Spending time outdoors and getting exercise helps improve your mood and mindset.

Golf Drug Rehab Helps You Overcome Alcoholism

Golf Drug Rehab is a full-spectrum addiction treatment program that blends golf into the mix. If you are ready to that the first step in alcoholism recovery, give our team a call at (877) 958-5320.

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5 Signs Alcohol is Killing You

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Notice the Dangers of Alcohol Before it’s Too Late

Too much of anything, no matter how much pleasure it brings, can lead to harmful effects. Take anything you might enjoy—eating chocolate, shopping, playing blackjack, even working. Any of these could cause harm if it is overdone.

The adverse effects of overindulgence are well known. This can cause obesity, bankruptcy, harm to the body, mental distress, and more. The same can be said about alcohol. An occasional drink is not a problem. But if drinking takes on a major role in your life, the effects can be very harmful.

Alcoholism is a widespread problem in the U.S., with 88,000 deaths each year attributed to alcohol. Ethyl alcohol is a highly toxic substance that can cause extreme damage to someone’s life. A drinking problem can harm you both physically and psychologically. Not only yourself but others if they are hurt or killed due to drunk driving.

For many, the harmful effects of heavy drinking may not be clear for some time. But at some point, it will become obvious that alcohol is killing you.

Heavy Alcohol Consumption Defined

The CDC has set guidelines that help people to be aware of what constitutes heavy drinking. According to the CDC:

  • Excessive drinking: 8 or more drinks in a week for women; 15 or more drinks in a week for men.
  • Binge drinking:  4 or more drinks in a single session for women; 5 or more drinks in a single session for men.
  • A “drink”:  A 12-ounce beer, 8 ounces of malt liquor, 5 ounces of wine, or 1½ ounces of liquor.

5 Signs Alcohol is Killing You

It is mind boggling just how hard alcohol is on the brain and body. The signs alcohol is killing you may creep up slowly, with a symptom here or there. Or it may hit you all at once with a liver that has ceased to function, as in late stage alcoholism. Here are 5 signs that alcohol is killing you:

  1. Cardiac symptoms. Long-term heavy drinking takes a toll on the heart. A sign of a serious cardiac issue that could result in death is a heart arrhythmia, another term for abnormal heart rate. Alcohol can also cause alcoholic cardiomyopathy. This is when the heart muscle weakens and cannot pump enough blood to the organs. This can result in organ damage or heart failure.
  2. Cognitive problems. Excessive alcohol use can lead to brain damage, which shows up first when cognitive function is reduced. Memory problems are another sign. Thiamine (B1) deficiency often results, leading to brain damage.
  3. Gastrointestinal problems. Heavy drinking can cause excess stomach acid, such as acid reflux which can lead to gastritis. It also causes problems in the stomach lining, such as ulcers and bleeding. The loss of blood can lead to anemia, causing extreme fatigue.
  4. Liver disease. Alcohol is highly toxic to the liver. The problem with liver disease is that the signs of it may not be noticed until later stages. This happens with cirrhosis. It often begins as fatty liver disease. It is a fatal condition unless a liver transplant succeeds.
  5. Cancer symptoms. Excess drinking causes an increased risk of many types of cancer, most of them deadly. Types of cancer linked with heavy drinking include oral, throat, esophageal, colon, rectal, pancreatic, liver, and breast cancer.

In addition to these health effects of alcoholism, other very bad consequences can be caused in other ways. These include legal problems due to DUIs, loss of a job, divorce, custody battles, and money problems.

Detox and Withdrawal

The first step in recovery will involve detox. Withdrawal symptoms range from mild to severe depending on factors like drinking history, age, health, and mental health.

The detox timeline is fairly consistent. What is not so easy to predict is acute alcohol withdrawal syndrome or the DTs. This health emergency emerges on days 3-4 in about 5% of those going through detox. But of those who it affects, there is a 15% death rate.

Detox Timeline:

Stage 1: Symptoms commence 6-12 hours after the last drink. This early phase lasts only one day and includes such symptoms as hand tremors, headaches, and nausea.

Stage 2: Symptoms peak during this phase, which begins on day 2 and usually lasts two days. This stage includes such symptoms as vomiting, sweating, confusion, fever, irritability, mood swings, heart palpitations, anxiety, and insomnia. Those with a more severe alcohol problems may also have hallucinations, mental confusion, and high blood pressure. There is also a risk of seizure.

Stage 3: The final two days will see the symptoms subside as the brain becomes stable. While the intense symptoms start to decrease, some still feel the psychological effects. These include depression, anxiety, irritability, and insomnia.

Comprehensive Treatment for Alcoholism Recovery

After the detox is complete, the individual will be stable enough to begin treatment. Treating alcoholism relies on a group of therapies that are designed to work in tandem. Treatment helps them change toxic behaviors and equips them with new coping skills.

These rehab elements include:

Psychotherapy: Therapy is at the heart of treatment. Using evidence-based theories such as CBT, DBT, and motivation enhancement clients learn new thoughts and behavior patterns. Therapists will work with clients to assist them in changing thought distortions that have led to the drinking problem.

Group work: Group therapy allows clients to share about the events in their lives that have led to the problem of drinking. These peer support groups provide a safe place to help each other while in rehab.

12-step program: A.A.’s 12-step program is often added to the treatment plan, but not always. There are non 12-step recovery programs available as well, and some rehabs offer both types of meetings.

Recreation therapy: Restoring health after alcoholism is a key focus during rehab and beyond. Nutritional counseling and outdoor fitness provide ways to improve brain health and wellness.

Holistic activities: To learn how to reduce stress is key in recovery. Many rehabs today offer holistic activities that teach clients how to relax. These might include yoga classes, massage, guided meditation, art or music therapy, and mindfulness training.

Golf Drug Rehab Provides Effective Treatment for Alcoholism

Golf Drug Rehab is a unique rehab program located in South Orange County. Using a blend of evidence-based therapies and golf recreational therapy, clients balance recovery work and enjoyable pastimes. For any questions about the program, please connect with Golf Drug Rehab today at (877) 958-5320.

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Exercise and Addiction Recovery

Exercise and Addiction Recovery Together is Key

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If you are in early recovery for a drug or alcohol addiction chances are your body has seen better days. In active addiction, most people pay little attention to nutrition and exercise, leading to eventual vitamin deficiencies, a depleted immune system, and a paunchy physique as time and energy were diverted toward acquiring, using, and recovering from the drug of choice. Once the mind clears in sobriety and you begin to focus on the consequences of the addiction, you may be startled at the poor state of your physical health.

Thankfully, the body is resilient and, with some consistency and dedication to overall wellness, it can rebound. Making fitness a priority can provide a multitude of benefits for the individual in recovery. Exercise and addiction recovery is an excellent combination for renewing strength, confidence, and hope in achieving a fulfilling life.

Exercise and Addiction Recovery: The Protective Effects of Physical Activity

While it has been widely understood in the recovery field for years that exercise is beneficial to individuals in addiction recovery, there is actual research that helps indicate how and why that is. In an article by Mark A. Smith and Wendy J. Lynch published in Frontiers in Psychology entitled “Exercise as a Potential Treatment for Drug Abuse: Evidence from Preclinical Studies,” the authors explain how epidemiological studies, or how certain determinants can influence disease development or progression, demonstrate the protective effects of exercise for the recovering addict. The article states that “Collectively, these studies have provided convincing evidence to support the development of exercise-based interventions to reduce compulsive patterns of drug intake in clinical and at-risk populations.”

In their study featuring rats who had access to a running wheel in the home cage, they found that the effects of running lasted beyond the exercise period, reducing the rats drug-seeking behavior after a period of abstinence. This, they posit, demonstrates how exercise may be effective at preventing relapse. They conclude by stating that the neurobiological effects of exercise can serve as an alternative non-drug reinforcer of sobriety.

How Early in Recovery Should Exercise Begin?

Considering the multiple realms that exercise and addiction recovery seem to work in tandem for positive outcomes, there is no reason to delay integrating regular physical activity into the recovery process. Starting in rehab, where most programs provide recreational activities or a gym, the individual can begin the process of restoring physical health while enjoying the psychological benefits of exercise.

Cardio-based activities such as walking, jogging, cycling, dance fitness, running, and swimming are excellent options to include in the recovery routine. Cardio or aerobic, exercise involves the pumping of oxygenated blood by the heart, delivering it to the working muscles. This works the lungs, heart, and muscles simultaneously, providing many health benefits.

5 Benefits of Exercise in Recovery

When you set aside a certain amount of time each week for physical activity you are sending a subliminal message to yourself that you care about your health and wellbeing. As the results of regular exercise start to become apparent, it will inspire you to continue on this positive, healthy trajectory in recovery. The primary benefits of combining exercise and addiction recovery include:

  1. Decreases stress while increasing resilience to stress. Stress is the number one foe of someone in early recovery, having the potential to induce a relapse. Regular physical activity will improve circulation and release brain chemicals leading to stress reduction. Over time, pushing oneself physically can create stronger mental stamina over stressful situations.
  2. Improves overall mood. It will take time to correct brain chemistry so that it will begin producing dopamine naturally again. Meanwhile, exercise is known to cause a release of endorphins and serotonin, boosting mood naturally.
  3. Boosts confidence. The sense of accomplishment that you get from completing a task, even a round of golf or a brisk walk, can help boost confidence in yourself. As you get stronger and begin to feel better, you slowly build up a renewed sense of self-worth.
  4. Promotes physical health. Just getting outside and moving your body can begin the process of restoring health. Regular exercise has enormous positive effects on all bodily systems, improving heart health, stamina, energy level, muscle strength, joint mobility, and increased immune response.
  5. Improves sleep quality. Regular physical activity helps to regulate body temperature, reduce stress, and promote relaxation, all beneficial to getting quality sleep. The energy expended in exercise can translate to getting more hours of sleep as well.

Golf Drug Rehab Incorporates Golf and Fitness Into Addiction Recovery Program

Golf Drug Rehab is a luxury rehabilitation center located in Orange County, California. As implied in the name of the program, Golf Drug Rehab places an emphasis on the fitness component of recovery, offering access to three deluxe golf courses in the local vicinity for its clients. Golf Drug Rehab combines outdoor activity with a powerful arsenal of proven evidence-based therapies for excellent recovery results. For more information about how the program meshes exercise and addiction recovery, please contact Golf Drug Rehab today at (877) 958-5320

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Am I an Alcoholic

Am I An Alcoholic?

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Alcohol abuse, alcohol addiction, alcohol dependency—with so many terms referencing an alcohol use disorder it may make the actual definition of alcoholism seem murky and confusing.  In reality, alcoholism is a complex substance use disorder with various features that help define the severity of the problem, or whether the alcohol use, although excessive, even reaches the clinical definition of the disease.

According to the definition of alcoholism by the Merriam-Webster dictionary, alcoholism is:

  1. Continued excessive or compulsive use of alcoholic drinks
  2. a.  Chronic, progressive, potentially fatal disorder marked by excessive and usually compulsive drinking leading to psychological and physical dependence or addiction
  3.  Acute alcohol poisoning resulting from the usually rapid consumption of excessive alcoholic beverages

Well, this serves as a starting point in understanding the nuances of alcoholism, but still allows for different interpretations of what exactly constitutes alcoholism.  If you are asking yourself “Am I an alcoholic” or “Do I need addiction treatment” then this blog may offer some helpful information.

What Exactly is Alcoholism?

It is difficult to know whether someone is an alcoholic or just

a problem drinker.  Some people can abuse alcohol for years without developing alcohol dependence. Others may be high-functioning alcoholics, able to be successful at a career and fulfilling family obligations even though they consume high amounts of alcohol.  Eventually, however, abusing alcohol for an extended time period will take a toll one way or another. Health will be impacted, cognitive decline occurs, or there might be a DUI arrest that creates legal headaches—even if the individual never became alcoholic in the classical sense.

Risk Factors For Alcoholism

So why is it that some heavy drinkers become alcoholics and others do not?  There are some risk factors for alcoholism that can predispose an individual to become an alcoholic.  The genetic component is one such factor. If someone has a strong family history of alcoholism there is a much higher probability that they could also become an alcoholic.  A co-occurring mental health disorder, such as depression, bipolar disorder, or generalized anxiety can also result in alcohol dependence, as the individual seeks to numb emotional pain or symptoms of anxiety.

A series of difficult life events, such as losing a loved one, divorce, losing a job, or experiencing or witnessing trauma can all contribute to depending on alcohol to soothe the emotional symptoms that are experienced as a result of the negative events.  

So, Am I an Alcoholic?

There are behavioral symptoms that an addiction is forming that can serve as warning signs.  These might include:

  • Obsessing over when you can drink next or how to obtain the alcohol
  • Trying to quit drinking and cannot
  • Withdrawing from friends and family
  • Loss of interest in the activities once enjoyed
  • Drinking more and more alcohol as tolerance increases
  • Mood swings
  • Losing interest in maintaining personal appearance and hygiene
  • Irritability
  • Concentration problems
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Alcohol cravings
  • When an attempt to quit drinking withdrawal symptoms emerge

10 Signs that Help Answer the Question, “Am I an Alcoholic?”

There are some universal signs that someone has crossed into alcoholism.  The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) has an online questionnaire that can help you determine if you have a problem with alcohol.  Among the points the NCADD includes are:

  1. You avoid friends and family while drinking
  2. You consume higher quantities of alcohol as time goes on
  3. You drink in response to stress, sadness, anger, or disappointment
  4. You have hand tremors in the morning
  5. You cannot remember things you said or did the night before
  6. You are experiencing financial, legal, career, or family problems due to drinking
  7. Your doctor advised you to cut down on alcohol
  8. You lie about how much alcohol you drink
  9. You are preoccupied during the day with drinking or crave alcohol
  10. You get drunk several days in a row

Treatment for Alcoholism

Getting treatment for an alcohol use disorder is life changing.  After completing detox, you will enter into an extended period of active treatment during which you will immerse yourself in a variety of therapeutic activities that all work together to help you overcome the alcoholism.  This will include individual talk therapy with a clinical psychotherapist who will guide you in examining any past traumas or emotional pain that might be driving the need to drink. Group therapy sessions allow a peer support system to develop where clients can help each other and share experiences.  Medications, such as naltrexone, can be used for the early phase of recovery to help reduce alcohol cravings. Recreational therapies, such as yoga, hiking, exercise sessions, golf, tennis, or surfing can take some pressure off and infuse some social activities during treatment.

Golf Drug Rehab Provides Superior Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment in Southern California

Golf Drug Rehab is a luxury drug and alcohol addiction treatment program in California.  The expert and compassionate clinical staff at Golf Drug Rehab is highly trained in detox and addiction treatment for individuals in need of help for an alcohol use disorder.  Offering the very latest treatment modalities and three amazing golf courses to help clients enjoy some recreational therapy, Golf Drug Rehab provides the perfect blend of therapy and golf.  If you are wondering “Am I an alcoholic?” or have questions about our program, call Golf Drug Rehab today at (877) 958-5320.

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Mild Alcohol Withdrawal

Severe vs. Mild Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

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It is widely understood that people with an alcohol dependency who want to enter recovery should undergo a supervised detox. There is good reason for this guidance, as alcohol detox and withdrawal can produce highly unpredictable, even dangerous, symptoms. A detox is monitored by trained detox specialists who are prepared to intervene should such symptoms arise and cause an emergency. At the very least, a detox program is able to help reduce unpleasant symptoms and safely guide the individual to the other side and into treatment.

Not all withdrawal symptoms, however, are so severe. The severity of the withdrawal symptoms is correlated to the acuity of the alcohol dependency. Someone with a fairly recent alcohol use disorder or who hasn’t consistently consumed large amounts of alcohol will likely experience mild alcohol withdrawal symptoms. A detox is still the best route to starting the recovery journey, but expectations of horrendous withdrawals would be overblown in the case of a mild alcohol use disorder.

symptoms of mild alcohol withdrawal

What Causes Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms?

Withdrawing from alcohol can result in physical discomfort and pain, as the body tries to adjust to the cessation of alcohol consumption. This is caused by the impact of consistent alcohol consumption on the central nervous system and how that impacts neuropathways. When the alcohol intake suddenly stops, the decreased responsiveness of GABA receptors in the brain will incite symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.

Only so much alcohol can be metabolized by the body, and broken down by enzymes in the liver. The brain or other bodily tissues will absorb any excess alcohol. Over time, the increasing levels of toxins stored in the brain, as a result of excessive alcohol consumption, can cause the brain to suppress certain neurotransmitters, so when alcohol intake ceases, the hyperexcitability of these brain chemicals results.

Factors that Influence the Severity of Alcohol Withdrawals

Certain factors dictate the level of the withdrawal symptoms, which can range from mild alcohol withdrawal symptoms to severe. These factors include:

  • How long the individual has had the alcohol use disorder
  • The level of alcohol consumed
  • History of alcohol withdrawal syndrome
  • Age of individual
  • General health status of individual

Co-occurring mental health disorders can also exacerbate some of the psychological symptoms experienced during withdrawal, such as anxiety and depression.

What is Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS)?

The above factors are taken into consideration during the intake process to help gauge the level of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) that might occur. Acute AWS features severe withdrawal symptoms when alcohol use is abruptly stopped. Approximately 10% of individuals withdrawing from alcohol will experience alcohol withdrawal syndrome featuring acute symptoms. These acute withdrawal symptoms emerge approximately 2 to 4 days into the detox process and might include:

  • High blood pressure
  • Increased heart rate
  • Hallucinations
  • High fever
  • Excessive sweating
  • Insomnia
  • Seizures
  • Delirium Tremens

What is Considered Mild Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms?

Not everyone who stops drinking will experience acute withdrawal symptoms. Some individuals might only experience sweating, hand tremors, nausea, sleep disturbance, and anxiety. Someone with a mild or recent alcohol use disorder should not avoid detox for fear of withdrawal symptoms, as these mild alcohol withdrawal symptoms are easily managed by the detox team. A sedative, such as Ativan, can help with both insomnia and anxiety, and simple over-the-counter interventions can help with fever, stomach distress, or headache.

Withdrawal symptoms begin to emerge about six hours after the last alcoholic drink. Symptoms peak on days 2 and 3 and then begin to subside. In most instances, alcohol detox and withdrawal are completed in less than one week, again, depending on the factors that determine the severity of the detox process.

Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder

When deciding to enter treatment for an alcohol use disorder, it is common to feel apprehensive about the detox process. Unfortunately, too many people who are in need of treatment shy away from it due to the fear of experiencing withdrawal symptoms. It is important to overcome this concern, knowing that a quality detox program will have in place all necessary interventions to make the detox as comfortable as possible. In addition to providing physical comfort and relief from symptoms, the detox professionals also provide psychological support to help each client successfully complete the detox stage of recovery.

After detox is behind them, the client will then begin the actual addiction treatment program. Alcohol use disorders are best treated using a variety of interventions that work in tandem together. These treatment elements often include:

  • Psychotherapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and contingency management are evidence-based therapies that have demonstrated success in treating addiction
  • Group therapy. Participating in small group counseling sessions can be a source of peer support and encouragement, as fellow clients in recovery share their own experiences and struggles
  • Medication-assisted treatment. Naltrexone has been shown to help someone in the early months of alcohol addiction recovery by reducing alcohol cravings
  • Addiction education and relapse prevention planning. Gaining an understanding of how alcohol impacts the brain and leads to chemical dependency is essential in helping to deter relapse. Making a thorough relapse prevention plan is critical in identifying potential triggers and making a plan to manage them
  • 12-step or other recovery meetings. Social support is an intrinsic component in recovery, so active participation in a recovery community is a useful element in the treatment
  • Other therapies that complement psychotherapy. These might include experiential activities such as yoga classes, meditation, journaling, art therapy, massage therapy, and acupuncture.

Golf Drug Rehab Will Guide You Through Alcohol Detox and Withdrawal

Golf Drug Rehab is an elite alcohol and drug rehabilitation program in Southern California. Situated in a spectacular coastal community, this luxury rehab offers the highest caliber detox team and treatment specialists for individuals with an alcohol use disorder. The rehab program begins with detox and is followed by multi-layered therapeutic interventions featuring the most up-to-date addiction treatment methods. As part of the rehab programming, our clients will enjoy some recreational therapy with access to three outstanding local golf courses. For more information about this premier treatment program, please contact Golf Drug Rehab today at (877) 958-5320

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Naltrexone Implant

Naltrexone for Alcohol Detox and Withdrawal

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For some in recovery for alcoholism the effort to stay sober is akin to swimming upstream, using every fiber of your being to work against the strong current that threatens to pull you right back downstream into drinking.  Someone with a long history of heavy alcohol consumption, who has become chemically dependent on it, may struggle, and fail over and over again to remain abstinent.

The drug, naltrexone, under the brand names Revia or Vivitrol, is the most promising development in alcohol addiction treatment in recent years.  Although first developed in the 1960s, naltrexone was eventually FDA cleared to treat alcoholism in 1995.  Clinical trials demonstrated that this drug was well-tolerated with few, if any, adverse side effects, and has been successful in helping motivated individuals remain sober.

Naltrexone Alcohol Detox Uses

Naltrexone is a non-narcotic medication that can be used in conjunction with therapy and other sources of support to achieve a life of sobriety.  Clients who have repeatedly relapsed and who have a moderate to severe alcohol dependency are the ideal candidates for naltrexone therapy.  Clinical studies have repeatedly shown that naltrexone can be highly effective in recovery from alcoholism.  Raymond F. Anton, M.D., in a published article entitled Naltrexone for the Management of Alcohol Dependence in the July 2008 edition of the New England Journal of Medicine states, “Typically, the studies have shown that oral naltrexone was superior to placebo in preventing relapse to heavy drinking after an initial abstinence period and in increasing the percentage of abstinence days.” Naltrexone works by attaching to the opiate receptors in the brain, blocking them from receiving any effect from alcohol.  With the opiate receptors blocked, the client experiences fewer cravings for alcohol, making it easier to avoid relapse in recovery.

How Does Naltrexone Work for Alcohol Addiction Recovery

No one but an alcohol dependent person can even attempt to explain the persistent drive to consume alcohol that plagues them on a daily basis.  Once the brain has been remapped to accommodate the constant infusion of alcohol into the system, it etches a reward pathway that is very difficult to overcome.  Even when alcohol becomes merely a medicinal substance that prevents them from experiencing the highly uncomfortable withdrawals that will ensue, they still desire it.

Naltrexone helps to break that connection between the substance (alcohol) and the desire to imbibe.  Overcoming this compulsion to drink can be accomplished over a period of months of naltrexone use, as the brain’s opioid receptors are blocked resulting in decreased cravings.  If the individual does drink while on naltrexone, they will not experience the high they remember, leading to a reduced desire to drink at all.

Alcoholism Treatment and Aftercare

Professional treatment for alcohol dependence should be a multi-disciplinary program that integrates therapy, 12-step participation, and naltrexone for qualified candidates.  This three-part approach to treating alcoholism, combined with a highly motivated individual, can be very effective in breaking free from the addiction.  Here is how the treatment elements work together:

  • This mainstay component of addiction treatment functions in several ways.  As the term indicates, psychotherapy is the interaction between a therapist or counselor and the client that addresses psychological concerns that may be related to the addictive behaviors.  Resolving these issues, including life traumas, a mental health condition, a suppressed emotional pain revolving around a relationship, death of a loved one, loss of a job, divorce, or any such difficulty, is imperative during addiction treatment.  The psychological damage that these events may have caused can be contributing to the compulsive alcohol abuse.

Psychotherapy can take many forms, including private meetings with the therapist and group therapy.  An evidence-based therapy that has been proven to be effective in addiction treatment is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).  CBT addresses the knee-jerk behavioral response the client may experience to a stressful event or trigger that resulted in drinking and helps them to find new healthy solutions and responses.  New coping skills are taught in therapy, as well as stress reducing techniques.

  • Non 12 or 12-step support groups. Peer recovery groups have been shown to be an important resource for clients, especially in the first year or two of recovery.  The meetings provide a safe and supportive venue for sharing, learning, and gaining resolve when it is fading.  A sponsor can help the client by providing a backstop resource at times of weakness.  Both the sponsor and the peer group provide a sense of accountability, where the client feels beholden to practice (work) the steps and become stronger over time.
  • Naltrexone therapy. Cravings are reduced or eliminated, and if the client slips up they will not experience the pleasurable high they had anticipated.  Over time, the client will lose the desire to drink.
  • Treatment does not end when the discharge papers are handed to the client.  Recovery from alcohol addiction is an ongoing process, therefore aftercare planning is important to the overall outcome.  Aftercare measures can include living in sober housing for several months while the newfound sober lifestyle takes root, continuing to participate in 12-step recovery meetings, and attending weekly therapy sessions.

Golf Drug Rehab Utilizes Naltrexone Implant Alcohol Method

Golf Drug Rehab is a luxury alcohol and drug addiction treatment rehab situated in the seaside community of Dana Point, California.  Golf drug Rehab utilizes the naltrexone pellet as part of its alcohol treatment program, combining it with detox, addiction therapy, and recovery group meetings.  Golf Drug Rehab features recreational therapy in the form of three stellar local golf courses for our clients to enjoy.  For more information, please contact Golf Drug Rehab at (877) 958-5320

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