Types of Treatment for Alcohol Abuse
If you or a loved one are struggling with drinking, you may be wondering what possible approaches exist for treatment for alcohol abuse. There are many treatment options available for those with alcohol abuse. Since alcoholism varies from person to person, treatment will be specific to your own personal situation and needs.
Behavioral Therapy
According to the National Institutes of Health, behavioral treatment is an effective approach in which you work with a counselor to develop the necessary skills to abstain from alcohol. It usually involves the use of techniques derived from learning and cognitive theories.
Behavioral therapy will provide a community of support and accountability, as well as teach you how to manage cravings and temptations. This therapy is intended to help you live out your recovery beyond just a short-term abstinence, and will also teach you skills and tricks that can be used long term. Please call 888-821-1257 Who Answers? to learn more about how behavioral therapy can help you today!
Pharmacotherapy
Behavioral therapy teaches you how to manage cravings.
While behavioral approaches have been shown to be effective, it may also be beneficial to consider a pharmaceutical approach to alcohol abuse. According to the National Institute on Drug Addiction, a combination of the two approaches increases the effectiveness of your recovery.
It does not matter which one you choose to go with first, as they can be paired together without issue. If you would prefer to start with pharmacotherapy and see how it benefits you, your doctor or treatment provider can prescribe medication to decrease cravings.
However, working towards a combination of both medicine and behavioral therapy would be the ideal treatment option, as it incorporates several different aspects of your recovery to ensure an overall well-being. Since sustainable recovery is the goal, it is important to make sure you are doing what works for you personally and that you can continue with for long-term use.
Support Groups
These are such a detrimental part of recovery, which is why support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous are so well-known. Not all support groups are affiliated with the 12-step program like A.A. is, and there are many that are community based. Having that community around you who truly understands what you are going through can make all the difference, by motivating you to continue treatment.
These individuals can help hold you accountable during the trying times, and you will also be able to hear their own personal success stories to motivate you in your own. While friends and family can be a great support during recovery, they don’t always understand exactly what it’s like, but support groups can provide you a community of people who do get it.
Support groups are usually open to all, with the exception of those that may be attached to specific programs. They can be easily found by checking out community centers and churches, or through a simple internet search. You can all take this recovery journey together and learn techniques for coping with triggers.
If you or a loved one are struggling with alcohol abuse, just call 888-821-1257 Who Answers? to speak with a caring specialist about any questions or concerns. Just know that you are not alone, and that treatment and help is out there just waiting to help you recover!
-
5 Signs You’re Suffering from Alcohol Addiction
- Having difficulties controlling your alcohol intake, feeling dependent on alcohol and drinking despite experiencing consequences are all signs of an alcohol problem.
-
Alcoholism Among Women Greatly Differs from Alcoholism Among Men
- The risk of developing an alcohol use disorder, and the risk for its potential adverse effects, differ between men and women.
-
Choosing the Right Alcohol Addiction Rehab Program
- Choosing alcohol rehab may seem daunting with the myriad of options available. Understanding the differences between them is a big help.
-
Effects of Alcohol on the Brain
- The effects alcohol can have on the brain are dependent on a number of factors, including age, gender, and drinking history.
-
Finding and Choosing the Best Alcohol Rehab for Women
- Alcohol rehab for women was developed specifically to cater to their unique needs and address underlying issues they often have.
-
Long Term Effects of Alcohol
- Alcohol has many health consequences. It can lead to long term illnesses, along with family problems and other lifestyle-related issues.
-
Short Term Effects of Alcohol Abuse
- Abusing alcohol can lead to immediate problems in a person's life. From potential accidents to unwanted sexual encounters, alcohol abuse has been known to cause many problems.
-
Treatment Options for Women Suffering from Alcoholism
- Women suffering from alcoholism are at risk for developing many health problems, and seeking treatment should be a high priority. Many options are available.
-
Understanding the Difference Between Alcohol Abuse and Dependence
- Alcohol abuse in itself is dangerous, however once a dependence forms, treatment is needed to prevent further consequences.
Saint Jude Retreats
A variety of treatment methods firmly rooted in sound research provide solid ground for healing at this high desert treatment center located north of Tucson.
Details ›
Right Step - Houston Central
Housed in a collection of historic homes surrounding a common courtyard, Right Step Houston nestles comfortably into the tree-lined streets of the city’s hip Montrose neighborhood.
Details ›
The Sundance Center
At this peaceful treatment center in upscale Scottsdale, residents learn how to enjoy all that life has to offer – without the assistance of drugs and alcohol.
Details ›