Author: Gary Jackson

Treatment for Alcohol Problems: Finding and Getting Help National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism NIAAA

Are you ready to quit drinking or cut down to healthier levels? These tips can help you get started on the road to recovery. Understanding the available treatment options—from behavioral therapies and medications to mutual-support groups—is the first step. The important thing is to remain engaged in whatever method you choose. Research shows that most people who have alcohol problems are able to reduce their drinking or quit entirely. Cost may be a factor when selecting a treatment approach.

Naltrexone is available in the form of an oral tablet or injection. Vivitrol is an injected form of the drug that your doctor can give you once a month. This may be more reliable and convenient than oral pills, especially if you think you may forget or be unwilling to take a pill every day.

Alcohol addiction treatment options

If identified and treated early, someone with an alcohol addiction may be able to avoid major consequences of the disease. Regardless of how the addiction looks, someone typically has an alcohol addiction if they heavily rely on drinking and can’t stay sober for an extended period of time. It’s important to note that alcoholism is a real disease. It can cause changes to the brain and neurochemistry, so a person with an alcohol addiction may not be able to control their actions.

• If you want to take steps to get treatment for your AUD, make an appointment with your doctor.
• If identified and treated early, someone with an alcohol addiction may be able to avoid major consequences of the disease.
• Learn how these healthcare professionals can provide telehealth care.
• This may be more reliable and convenient than oral pills, especially if you think you may forget or be unwilling to take a pill every day.
• Working to stop alcohol use to improve quality of life is the main treatment goal.

Alcohol recovery is a process—one that often involves setbacks. A drinking relapse doesn’t mean you’re a failure or that you’ll never be able to reach your goal. Each drinking relapse is an opportunity to learn and recommit to sobriety, so you’ll be less likely to relapse in the future. Cravings for alcohol can be intense, particularly in the first six months after you quit drinking. Make meetings a priority – Join a recovery support group, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), and attend meetings regularly.

If your loved one needs help

And you don’t have to wait until you hit rock bottom; you can make a change at any time. Whether you want to quit drinking altogether or cut down to healthier levels, these guidelines can help you get started on the road to recovery today. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other 12-step programs provide peer support for people quitting or cutting back on their drinking.

If you’re reluctant to turn to your loved ones because you’ve let them down before, consider going to couples counseling or family therapy. Make a note about how you feel physically and mentally on these days—recognizing the benefits may help you to cut down for good. Let friends, family members, and co-workers know that you’re trying to stop or cut back on drinking.

FIND YOUR WAY TO QUALITY ALCOHOL TREATMENT

Most people with alcohol problems do not decide to make a big change out of the blue or transform their drinking habits overnight. In the early stages of change, denial is a huge obstacle. Even after admitting you have a drinking problem, you may make excuses and drag your feet. It’s important to acknowledge your ambivalence about stopping drinking. If you’re not sure if you’re ready to change or you’re struggling with the decision, it can help to think about the costs and benefits of each choice.