Alcohol addiction treatment is designed to help individuals overcome their dependence on alcohol and return to a healthy lifestyle. Treatment typically involves a combination of therapies, medications, and lifestyle changes. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most commonly used forms of treatment for alcohol addiction. CBT works by helping individuals identify and modify behaviors and thoughts that lead to excessive drinking. In addition, medications may be used to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Examples of medications used for alcohol addiction treatment include naltrexone and acamprosate (Lintzeris et al., 2020).
Lifestyle changes are also important in alcohol addiction treatment. These changes may include avoiding triggers that lead to drinking, such as certain people or places, as well as engaging in activities that promote sobriety. Exercise, nutrition, and stress management are also important components of treatment. Finally, support from family and friends can be invaluable in helping individuals sustain their recovery (Mackay et al., 2017).
In addition to the above treatments, there are a number of additional resources available for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. These include support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, and residential treatment programs. Treatment programs often combine various therapies and medications with individual and group counseling (Kranzler et al., 2016).
Overall, alcohol addiction treatment is a multi-faceted process that can help individuals overcome their dependence on alcohol and achieve long-term sobriety. With the right combination of therapies, medications, lifestyle changes, and support, individuals can successfully manage their addiction and regain control of their lives.
Explore the articles below for more information, resources, and guidance on alcohol addiction, treatment, and recovery.
References:
Kranzler, H. R., Burleson, J. A., Delucchi, K. L., & McKay, J. R. (2016). Treatments for alcohol use disorder: A review of the evidence. Neuropsychopharmacology, 41(1), 294–312. https://doi.org/10.1038/npp.2015.203
Lintzeris, N., Gartner, C. E., Bruno, R., Campbell, G., Larance, B., Mattick, R., … & Degenhardt, L. (2020). Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder: A Review. Journal of Addiction Medicine, 14(3), 155–166. https://doi.org/10.1097/ADM.0000000000000541
Mackay, S., Stockwell, T., & Chikritzhs, T. (2017). A systematic review of interventions for the treatment and management of alcohol use disorder and comorbid mental health conditions. Addiction, 112(7), 1164–1179. https://doi.org/10.1111/add.13685
The alcohol withdrawal process can bring on a number of different symptoms, including shakes, tremors, headaches, hypertension, and you guessed it: fever (also known as pyrexia). An increase in body temperature can be highly beneficial when the human body is fighting...
Alcohol and cocaine are among the most widely abused substances in the United States. Each of these substances come with risks when they are consumed individually - something most of us know. What many people are unaware of is that when combined, the effects of...
Alcohol is a common substance found in America. Drinking it has become so routine that it is often difficult for an untrained person to recognize the signs of an alcoholic. Is someone drinking just because they are in college and it’s “what you do in college”? Are...
Alcohol shakes and tremors are one withdrawal symptom that presents in a moderate to a severe case of someone who has stopped drinking alcohol. This is an obvious symptom that can be easily observed by the naked eye and the patient’s body with be physically be shaking...
When you can see that someone is struggling with alcohol, it is difficult to know what to do. How do you help an alcoholic? A common suggestion is not to enable people who are using drugs, but isn’t the alternative sitting around waiting for them to hit “rock...
We want to know if you love a brand, company, or organization that you feel has helped you in your sobriety! Provide the name and URL for the brand, as well as why you love this brand. Brands can include anything from non-alcoholic beverages and sober merchandise companies to recovery bloggers and influencers.