When it comes to treating alcohol use disorder, there are many options available. From a 12-step program such as Alcoholics Anonymous to residential rehab, there are numerous choices in care and treatment. Choosing the right option for you can make the difference between success and failure. While the most important factor in selecting a treatment option is to get help, you may also need to consider your availability, finances and lifestyle when making your decision.
The first step in the process of overcoming alcoholism is to undergo detox. This is a medically supervised process that will alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce your alcohol intake to an acceptable level. Once the process is complete, you can begin a treatment program that will vary in intensity from inpatient to outpatient depending on your specific circumstances.
Inpatient or residential get help for alcohol addiction treatment is the most intensive form of care. This involves staying on-site at a treatment facility for 30 to 90 days. This provides a safe environment that allows you to focus solely on recovery with around-the-clock clinical management. It includes group and individual therapy, counseling, case management services and medication management visits.
Outpatient alcohol treatment is less intense and provides you with the opportunity to continue your work and family obligations while undergoing addiction recovery. This form of treatment is typically available through local mental health clinics, private practices and some hospitals. Outpatient alcohol treatment often focuses on behavioral therapies that will teach you new coping skills, help you change your relationship to drinking and provide support from peers who are going through the same thing.
Alcoholism treatment isn’t a quick fix and there are no guarantees that you will be successful in recovery. In fact, it’s more common to experience relapse than to stop drinking altogether. However, persistent follow-up with a therapist or substance abuse specialist is critical in helping you to reclaim your life and avoid drinking.
The benefits of attending alcohol treatment programs are far-reaching. They can improve your relationships with friends and family, help you save money on unnecessary expenses related to your alcohol consumption and lead to better overall physical health. Additionally, you can learn to cope with stress and find enjoyment in other activities that don’t involve drinking.
As a result of attending alcohol treatment programs, you can improve your personal and professional standing. You can enjoy a greater sense of purpose and value in your life, and you’ll be at a reduced risk for illness such as liver disease and heart problems.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether alcohol treatment is worth the investment. The good news is that there are more treatment options than ever before, with professionals providing up-to-date treatments backed by science. By evaluating your needs and preferences, you can find the alcohol treatment that works for you. For example, you might prefer the non-addictive medications that are available, such as naltrexone, which prevents a return to heavy drinking by blocking the pleasure receptors in the brain; and disulfiram, which creates uncomfortable side effects when you consume alcohol.