Alcohol addiction or alcoholism affects people from all walks of life. Despite your loved ones seeing the consequences, you might still ask: do I need alcohol addiction treatment? Well, alcoholism is a real disease. It causes changes in your brain, which means that you’ll be unable to control your actions.
To establish whether you need treatment for alcohol addiction, you have to identify the signs of the condition first because this is the first step to alcohol rehab success.
The Outlook for Alcoholism
For decades, experts have tried to pinpoint the exact cause of alcoholism that may predispose someone to alcohol addiction. Factors like genetics and socioeconomics top the list, but there is no single cause. This is because genetic, behavioral, and psychological factors all contribute to the disease.
Loved ones of people suffering from alcohol addiction can benefit from a residential addiction treatment program in Houston. Here you will experience evidence-based addiction therapies, such as:
- Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Fitness therapy
- Family therapy
- Aftercare programs
Keep in mind that a person who has stayed sober for several months or years may still relapse and start drinking again. They may even binge drink. However, this does not mean that the therapy program was a failure as the person can resume treatment and fully recover.
Ultimately, it’s the responsibility of the person with the addiction to remain sober. As a loved one, provide emotional support and encouragement to a family member facing addiction.
Do I Need Alcohol Addiction Treatment? The Signs of Alcoholism
In general, it can be challenging to recognize the symptoms of alcohol addiction. Unlike other illicit drugs, such as heroin or cocaine, alcohol is readily available and widely accepted in many cultures. It’s prominent in social situations and celebrations.
Drinking is normal for many people in the US. As such, it can be hard to distinguish between a social drinker and someone with a real problem.
However, there are several signs to watch out for, including:
- Increased frequency or quantity of use
- High alcohol tolerance, or lack of hangover signs
- Drinking at inappropriate places or times, such as at work or first thing in the morning
- Replacing old friends with new ones who are heavy drinkers
- Dependence on alcohol
- Professional or legal problems such as job loss or an arrest
- Increased emotion issues, such as depression and lethargy
Why You Should Treat Alcoholism Early
If you find yourself asking, do I need alcohol addiction treatment, it’s imperative to get help early to avoid creating a myriad of other problems. For example, if you drive a vehicle while intoxicated, you’re putting yourself and others at risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 29 lives are lost every day in the US as a result of drunk driving.
Treating alcohol addiction early enough is easier than waiting for the condition to worsen. Other complications may arise when the illness goes for long without treatment. However, you can still treat long-term alcoholism successfully.
Overall, seek professional assistance from Houston substance abuse treatment programs or a support group if you always wonder: Do I need alcohol addiction treatment? Full recovery is possible, regardless of how long you’ve been suffering from the condition. Take the first step to enjoy sobriety again.
