What Are My Options for Alcoholism Treatment?

Treatment Options For Alcoholics

If you find yourself struggling with addiction, you do not need to recover alone. Alcoholism is a challenging addiction to break and you may need to rely on professional care to move past it. There are a number of options available to you depending on your physical and mental health needs, so be sure to research the resources below and ask for the appropriate help. Alcoholism treatment is a powerful process you can take advantage of if you are ready for a sober future you can look forward to.

Primary Care Doctor

Because of the countless ways alcohol affects your health, your first step towards asking for help should be reaching out to your primary care doctor. Not only do they have access to your medical records and mental health challenges you may be at risk for, they can assess the physical damage the alcohol has done to your body. There may be cases where you will benefit from a professional assisted detox or medication to help you deal with withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor should also be a point of reference throughout the rest of your treatment and do preventive checkups for possible complications of alcoholism, including liver cancer or serious withdrawal illness.

Detox Centers

Alcohol rehab centers are a powerful option if you are looking for comprehensive 24/7 support as you begin sobriety. Withdrawal from alcohol is difficult to overcome alone as it comes with various mental and physical challenges. You may experience physical symptoms such as nausea, headaches, dehydration, and light-headed. You may also experience psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or feelings of isolation. Alcohol rehab centers are equipped to treat each of these needs at once, by providing you with a live-in detox environment with assisted medical detox programs, doctors, and meals to help your body recover. You will also find licensed psychologists and support groups available to help you manage the psychological issues that arise in withdrawal.

Psychological Treatment

Receiving treatment from a licensed psychologist is essential to a successful long term recovery. The psychological aspects of addiction may be deep-rooted in your psyche, requiring professional help to work through the habits and thought processes that caused you to depend on alcohol. You may have used alcohol to “numb” or avoid negative emotions in the past or to deal with triggering life events. Learning how to process difficult emotions in a healthy way is an essential aspect of recovering. When you learn to cope with life in a positive and productive way, you are less likely to depend on alcohol. Your psychologist is also there to help you be proactive and notice warning signs that may lead to a relapse. By taking preventive measures and learning about your tendencies, you and your therapist can defend against major challenges to your sobriety.

Medication

Taking prescribed mental health medications is a protocol common to many outpatient alcohol rehab treatment programs. Partaking in inpatient centers is a powerful short term solution that requires you to eventually transition into your normal environment as you adjust to your new treatment. It is not uncommon to experience mental health challenges associated with alcohol addiction such as anxiety or depression, so your treatment provider may deem it best to prescribe you with medication to help with anxiety or another clinical issue. Be sure only to use medication appropriately as prescribed, since drug intake may trigger your addiction and cause more harm. When used correctly and as needed, medication is a positive tool to help you acclimate to your recovery.

Support Groups

Recovery from alcohol is not a journey you need to embark on alone. Addiction can make you feel helpless and isolated, but recovery can be a positive experience if you build a support system that helps you move forward. Taking advantage of alcohol addiction support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous can remind you that you are not alone and inspire you to create positive changes in the long term. Learning from others’ stories will help you overcome common challenges and hear success stories about challenges you may be struggling with in the beginning. Support groups are also a positive way to readjust to your new social life and connect with others who understand your recovery and are there to help you through.

Recovering from alcoholism is a unique journey for everyone, and the right treatment option for you depends on the level of support you desire to enhance your recovery. Asking for help through the appropriate alcoholism treatment will get you the professional help you need to protect your physical and mental health in the long term. Consider these options as you contemplate the best steps to take to begin your treatment process and turn over a new leaf in your healthiest recovery possible.

Medical disclaimer:

Sunshine Behavioral Health strives to help people who are facing substance use disorder, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. It does this by providing compassionate care and evidence-based content that addresses health, treatment, and recovery.

Licensed medical professionals review material we publish on our site. The material is not a substitute for qualified medical diagnoses, treatment, or advice. It should not be used to replace the suggestions of your personal physician or other health care professionals.