What is Alcoholism?
Alcoholism has many names, including Alcohol Use Disorder, Alcohol Dependence, and Alcohol Addiction. It is a chronic disease characterized by uncontrolled alcohol consumption. Like diabetes, life-long treatment can help, though the condition does not go away.
Signs of Alcoholism
Alcohol Use Disorder is not about how often one drinks, it is about what happens when they drink. If someone cannot follow through on a limit they set, and is unable to control their drinking, that is a sign of AUD. If someone is able to control and enjoy drinking simultaneously, they may not have AUD.
Additionally, prioritizing alcohol consumption over other values such as relationships and professional success is a sign. As the disease is progressive, other signs may include hiding alcohol, or physical withdrawal including shaking, sweating, nausea or vomiting.
More information about signs and treatment options for AUD can be found in this article.
Treatment of Alcoholism
Although AUD is a physical disease, treatment must be holistic, including physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual therapeutic modalities. If the disease has progressed to a certain level, properly supervised detoxification is important, as improper detoxification can be fatal. Once a person’s body is clean from alcohol and properly functioning, other treatment may begin.
Residential treatment aids the transition from a life with alcohol to a life without alcohol. Thought patterns, behavioral habits, mindsets, and lifestyle all must significantly change to enjoy life without alcohol. Taking time to learn the tools to sustain sobriety is essential to maintaining treatment.
Rehabs such as Soberman’s Estate offer various therapeutic modalities, in order for individuals to find what strategies works best to incorporate into their daily life. Some individuals find success with one-on-one therapy, some with group therapy, equine therapy, art therapy, music therapy, etc.
Once an individual learns the tools necessary for their personal life-long treatment, incorporating sobriety into their social life is essential, such as group meetings, finding a sponsor, sponsoring others, and befriending other individuals in the recovery community. This also includes drawing boundaries with other individuals who do not respect their new lifestyle choices.
If you are interested in learning more about alcoholism treatment, Soberman’s Estate offers complimentary confidential consultations at 480-595-2222.
