How to Start an Alcoholism Recovery Journey
Alcoholism Overview
Alcoholism is the craving and excessive drinking of alcohol by an individual. It is the inability of an individual to manage their intake of alcohol, thereby leading to physical, mental, and biological problems. Alcoholism often leads to a range of health problems that can range from mild to fatal. Starting an alcoholism recovery journey may seem scary, but it can save your life.
Is Alcoholism a Disease?
It is a chronic disease, also referred to as alcohol use disorder. The individuals experiencing alcoholism often feel unsettled or cannot go about their day-to-day activities without alcohol intake. Over time, these individuals tend to experience some side effects due to the constant intake of alcohol.
However, you can begin your alcoholism recovery journey to help you overcome alcohol use disorder. If you or someone you know is struggling with an alcohol use disorder, Essence Healthcare is here to help you on your journey to sobriety.
Signs and Symptoms of Alcoholism
- Frequent intake of large amounts of alcohol
- Experiencing frequent and strong cravings to drink
- Continual consumption of alcohol, regardless of the issues it causes with their relationships
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, depression, nausea, shakiness, anxiety, and restlessness
- Finding it difficult to control or reduce drinking
- Drinking more than usual to get the same effect each time
- Giving up on pleasurable and important activities to drink
- Getting into dangerous situations while drinking
- Showing signs of tolerance to alcohol
Dangers of Untreated Alcoholism
- Alcoholism affects the individual’s brain by causing complications such as loss of coordination and memory. This effect can be long or short-term because prolonged intake of alcohol often affects the proper functioning of the brain.
- Excessive alcohol intake can weaken the heart. It causes an increase in the triglyceride levels in the individual’s blood, thereby increasing the risk of health conditions. These health conditions include diabetes, heart disease, and sudden cardiac arrest.
- The liver breaks down and removes alcohol from the blood. However, over time, the metabolism process can become overwhelming, leading to a chronic condition called fatty liver. Some liver complications attached to alcoholism are cirrhosis, hepatitis, and fibrosis.2
Short-Term Side Effects
Some of the short-term side effects of alcoholism include:
- Slowed breathing
- Vision impairment
- Impulsive behavior
- Head pain
- Lowered inhibitions
- Feelings of drowsiness
- Injuries such as burns and falls
- Alcohol poisoning
- Trouble making decisions
Long-Term Side Effects
- Constant changes in weight and appetite
- Increased conflict and tension in relationships
- Insomnia
- Ulcers
- Cancer
- Weak immune system
- Mental health problems such as anxiety and depression
- Respiratory infections
- Seizures
- Nerve damage
- Alcohol dependence
What to Do if You or Your Loved One Show Signs of Alcoholism
Below are some of the things to do when your loved one shows signs of alcoholism.
Support and Pay Attention
Learn More About Alcoholism
Before lending a helping hand, it is important to know more about alcohol use disorder. Do adequate research, become educated on alcoholism recovery, and learn about the symptoms of alcoholism and the treatment options available.
Approach Them With Solutions
Treatment Options for Alcoholism Recovery
Outpatient Program
An outpatient treatment program for alcoholism in medical facilities enables the individual to live at home. These patients receive their treatments in the comfort of their homes, allowing flexibility. However, these individuals must have a stable and drug-free home environment before participating in the outpatient program.4
Intensive Outpatient Program
Partial Hospitalization Program
In this treatment program, intensive care is available at the facility for the individuals. The environment is often flexible, and the patients can attend their treatments during the day and head home after.
Aftercare
Aftercare begins after the successful completion of an alcohol treatment program. It is a vital part of the alcoholism recovery process. Once the individual completes the treatment program, they may face challenges that can lead to relapse. Aftercare is designed to provide continued support to help patients achieve long-term alcoholism recovery.
- Support groups
- Sober living communities
- Aftercare therapy
Alcoholism Recovery at Essence Healthcare
If you or someone you know is struggling with an alcohol use disorder, know that alcoholism recovery is possible and there are many resources available to you. At Essence Healthcare, we will be here to support you every step of the way in your alcoholism recovery journey.
What We Offer
At Essence Healthcare, we understand that each person’s recovery journey looks different. Our team of compassionate professionals will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs. We offer a variety of treatment options, including psychotherapy, peer support groups, medication-assisted treatment, and more holistic approaches.
These include yoga, meditation, and mindfulness exercises. Our goal is to help you achieve long-term sobriety and will help you get there in any way we can.
Contact Essence Healthcare Today
You don’t have to struggle with alcoholism alone. Reach out to Essence Healthcare today for more information about our available treatment options.
