Although most people can manage to drink alcohol in moderation, alcohol consumption can turn into a mental problem for some people. For instance, some people can hardly control how much alcohol they should take and they may experience emotional and even physiological problems when they are not drinking. This is because alcohol can make significant changes in the brain, making it very difficult for a person to quit. Some people wrongly dismiss alcohol used disorder as a willpower issue, but the truth is that it is a mental disease. The good news is that with the assistance of a reliable psychiatry facility such as 2nd Chance Treatment Center, the issue can be treated. Below is a rundown of some available treatment options.
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Go to Detox
If you have severe alcohol use disorder, this is one of the most important steps that you have to take. The goal of this step is to quit drinking and give your body the necessary time to completely get alcohol from the system. This can take several weeks. However, it is likely to cause you some withdrawal symptoms such as seizures, tremors/shaking, and hallucinations. However, your doctor will keep an eye on you and prescribe medications that can help you to manage the symptoms.
Seek The Assistance Of A Therapist Or A Counselor
When it comes to treating severe alcohol use disorder, controlling alcohol consumption is just a small part of the solution. You also have to learn new strategies and skills to apply in your daily life. You have to get to the bottom of the reason why you have been drinking uncontrollably in the first place. Counselors or psychologists can teach you how to:
- Manage stress and other triggers
- Build a solid support system
- Set and reach goals
- Change behaviors that pull you to drinking
For some people, a focussed, short counseling session is adequate. Other cases may call for longer, one-on-one therapies to handle issues such as depression and anxiety.
Medication
So far, there is no known medicine that can cure alcohol use disorder. However, there are medications that can enhance the recovery process. These medications seek to make drinking less enjoyable for you. For instance, drugs such as Disulfiram can make you throw up or feel ill when you drink; Acamprosate can reduce your cravings; Naltrexone can prevent you from feeling high when you drink. Talk to your doctor to determine what is most appropriate for you.
The Takeaway
Overall, it is apparent that contrary to what many people think, the inability to control or quit alcohol consumption is not a matter of willpower. In most cases, it is a mental illness. Therefore, if you are struggling with alcohol use disorder, it is imperative for you to seek help. Many treatment options are available, and your doctor will help you in determining the best option for you. If you are looking for a reliable outpatient addiction treatment center to help you in this regard, 2nd Chance Treatment Center is an excellent choice. Feel free to visit or contact them today for more information about the services that they offer.
