Alcohol addiction derives from alcoholism, a severe form of alcohol abuse. When managing drinking habits become an impossibility this is commonly referred to as an alcohol use disorder. Alcohol use disorder is split into three categories: mild, moderate, and severe. Each category has various symptoms to look out for which can cause harmful side effects if not treated appropriately. 

Individuals who are struggling with alcoholism are often dependent on alcohol so much so that they cannot function normally without it. This can have a knock-on effect and lead to a wide range of issues. Some issues include: impact on professional goals, relationships, personal matters, and overall health. Over time, the side effects of consistent alcohol abuse can worsen and have potentially damaging consequences.

If you or a loved one are struggling with an alcohol addiction there are treatment options available. At Open Minds we offer rehab and detoxification services to help get you on the road to recovery.

What are the warning signs of alcoholism?

Like with anything, there are some warning signs to look out for. Some are more noticeable than others, which can take longer to surface. Knowing what to look for can help with identifying an alcohol addiction in its early stages which can lead to a better chance for a successful recovery.

Signs of alcoholism include:

• Craving alcohol when not drinking
• Putting alcohol first before responsibilities
• Being unable to control consumption
• Feeling the need to drink more
• Spending substantial amounts on alcohol
• Behaving differently after drinking

Reasons why people drink

There are a lot of factors that can increase the risk of alcohol abuse. Individuals may turn to alcohol for a specific reason, however, over time develop a dependency on drinking as a result. A common reason for turning to alcohol is during difficult times such as a death of a loved one or maybe even a job loss. Any hardship can potentially trigger long-term alcohol abuse. Some of the most common reasons people start drinking are:

For stress relief

If someone is reliant on alcohol to reduce stressors in day-to-day life it is more likely that they will develop an addiction to alcohol. Alcohol is a depressant and sedative which gives the feeling of pleasure, however, frequent drinking can build a tolerance to this requiring more consumption to feel the same effects.

To feel good

Many consume alcohol to provide them with a break from reality. It offers an escape and a sense of relief from other underlying issues in your mind. However, continual use can quickly turn into a serious drinking problem.

Help cope with loss 

Losing someone that is close to you can be incredibly difficult, not only emotionally but physically and mentally too. Alcohol provides a gateway to ease the grief and is used to get through difficult times. However, depending on alcohol, even temporarily, can spiral into a drinking problem.

Help with anxiety

Whether you are naturally anxious or feel anxious in certain social situations, drinking lowers inhibitions and helps individuals to feel more comfortable. Over time, this can lead to addictive behaviours.

For connection

Individuals may drink to feel closer to others. They feel that alcohol will either fill the void or help them create new bonds with others. The opposite of this tends to be true when addiction takes hold with individuals pushing others away because of their drinking habits.

To minimise shame

One of the more difficult emotions to deal with is shame. This is thought to be one of the most traumatic. Alcohol can temporarily mask shame with false feelings and can lead individuals to engage in reckless or foolish behaviours. This can increase the level of shame you feel and send you into a downward spiral. 

Help with trauma

Almost all patients that have alcohol dependency have some sort of trauma. Trauma comes in many forms and all forms of it are equally painful events where the victim didn’t have a particularly empathetic witness. For many, treating the unresolved trauma is the key to their alcoholism recovery.

Treatment for alcohol addiction

Knowing that you need help if you have an alcohol addiction is one of the biggest obstacles you will overcome. There are many different forms of treatment depending on the frequency of alcohol consumption and severity of alcohol abuse. Recovering from an alcohol addiction is a process and even after rehab that process continues. It takes a lot of commitment to apply various techniques you learn at rehab, counselling, support groups and any other therapy you may receive. 

Treatment plans are individualised to each patient – there is no one size fits all. However, there is generally a structure that can be followed when it comes to alcoholism treatment.

Detoxification

Alcohol addiction recovery starts with detoxification. This phase is helped with the assistance of medical professionals due to the potentially serious and uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Whilst some consider “going cold turkey” rather than going through a detox program as the way forward – this can be potentially dangerous. With professional medical help, you are given medication to alleviate the painful side effects of withdrawal. 

Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation comes in two types: outpatient and inpatient rehab. Inpatient rehabs are intensive treatment programs that require checking into a rehab facility for a certain period of time; this can vary from, 30,60, or 90 days depending on your initial assessment. Inpatient rehab gives you the opportunity to focus on your recovery without the influence of outside factors which may veer you off your recovery path.

Aftercare

Recovery doesn’t stop after your rehab ends. Recovery is a process that requires ongoing therapy and support groups. Continuing this way will help you maintain your sobriety and continue a happy and healthy path for months and years to come.

If you think you or a loved one may have an alcohol addiction and are ready to start your recovery journey. Contact us at Open Minds for a friendly confidential chat.