Treatment FAQ

how do i know what alcohol treatment option is right for me

by Elyssa Ortiz Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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The type of alcoholism rehab that will be most suitable for you may be determined by several individual factors such as your current alcohol use and corresponding level of physical alcohol dependence, any additional substance use, any previous attempts to quit, and any co-occurring medical and/or mental health conditions.

Full Answer

How do I know my options for alcohol abuse treatment?

Know your options for alcohol abuse treatment, from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to peer support groups. Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic condition characterized by compulsive alcohol use, loss of control over alcohol intake, and a negative emotional state when not drinking.

What are the treatment options for alcohol use disorder?

Health care professionals provide two types of treatment for alcohol use disorder: 1 Talk therapy. A licensed therapist can help people build coping strategies and skills to stop or reduce drinking. 2 Medications. A primary care clinician or a board-certified addiction doctor can prescribe non-addicting medications. More ...

How do I know if I have an alcohol use disorder?

A health professional can conduct a formal assessment of your symptoms to see if an alcohol use disorder is present. For an online assessment of your drinking pattern, go to RethinkingDrinking.niaaa.nih.gov.

How do I get help for alcohol addiction?

Your doctor. Primary care and mental health practitioners can provide effective AUD treatment by combining new medications with brief counseling visits. To aid clinicians, NIAAA has developed a guide for younger patients, Alcohol Screening and Brief Intervention for Youth: A Practitioner’s Guide.

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Which is considered the most effective treatment for alcoholism?

A new study concludes that the Alcoholics Anonymous program is the most effective way to treat alcohol use disorder. The researchers said people who complete the organization's 12-step program have better success at abstinence as well as relationships with family members and friends.

What are five types of therapy that can be used to treat alcoholism?

What Are My Alcoholism Therapy Options?Psychotherapy. Psychotherapy is the classic approach of having a conversation. ... Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) ... Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) ... Motivational Interviewing. ... 12-Step Facilitation. ... Yoga And Meditation. ... Art And Music Therapy. ... Find Alcoholism Treatment Therapy Today.

What is the best treatment system for addiction?

Inpatient Rehab Inpatient rehabs are a great option for individuals battling chronic addiction as well as those suffering from a co-occurring mental or behavioral disorder.

What are two programs for treating alcoholism?

People often think there are only two places to get help for alcohol problems—Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or residential rehab....These levels, as defined by the American Society of Addiction Medicine, include:Outpatient. ... Intensive outpatient or partial hospitalization. ... Residential. ... Intensive inpatient.

In which stage of alcoholism does the drinker face serious health problems?

Lastly the final stage, known as the end-stage of alcohol abuse, is the point where the alcoholic is experiencing very serious health and mental issues.

How can I drink less without quitting?

Purchase Alcohol in Small, Measured AmountsAvoid hard alcohol. Switching to drinking less concentrated drinks, like beer or wine over vodka, is one way to reduce alcohol intake.Limit your purchases. ... Only drink after big meals. ... Stick to your schedule. ... Try alcohol-free or low-alcohol options.

What are 3 options for drug abuse treatment?

There are many options that have been successful in treating drug addiction, including:behavioral counseling.medication.medical devices and applications used to treat withdrawal symptoms or deliver skills training.evaluation and treatment for co-occurring mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.More items...•

How does the brain recover from addiction?

Addictive drugs can provide a shortcut to the brain's reward system by flooding the nucleus accumbens with dopamine. Additionally, addictive drugs can release 2 to 10 times the amount of dopamine that natural rewards do, and they do it more quickly and reliably.

What medication is prescribed to avoid withdrawal symptoms?

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), part of the National Institutes of Health, is pleased to announce that lofexidine, the first medication for use in reducing symptoms associated with opioid withdrawal in adults, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

What are the four types of treatment for an alcohol use disorder?

Types of TreatmentBehavioral Treatments. Behavioral treatments are aimed at changing drinking behavior through counseling. ... Medications. ... Mutual-Support Groups. ... Current NIAAA Research—Leading to Future Breakthroughs. ... Mental Health Issues and Alcohol Use Disorder.

How can you stop yourself from drinking alcohol?

Simple tips for cutting downMake a plan. Before you start drinking, set a limit on how much you're going to drink.Set a budget. Only take a fixed amount of money to spend on alcohol.Let them know. ... Take it a day at a time. ... Make it a smaller one. ... Have a lower-strength drink. ... Stay hydrated. ... Take a break.

What is the final stage in the development of alcoholism?

The final stage of alcoholism is addiction. At this stage, you no longer want to drink just for pleasure. Alcohol addiction is characterized by a physical and psychological need to drink. People with alcohol addiction physically crave the substance and are often inconsolable until they start drinking again.

How to help someone with alcoholism?

It is important that as you try to help your loved one, you find a way to take care of yourself as well. It may help to seek support from others, including friends, family, community, and support groups. If you are developing your own symptoms of depression or anxiety, think about seeking professional help for yourself. Remember that your loved one is ultimately responsible for managing his or her illness.

How do medications work for alcohol dependence?

The newer types of these medications work by offsetting changes in the brain caused by AUD.

What is NIAAA Alcohol Treatment Navigator?

Please note: NIAAA recently launched the NIAAA Alcohol Treatment Navigator. This online tool helps you find the right treatment for you — and near you. It guides you through a step-by-step process to finding a highly qualified professional treatment provider. Learn more at https://alcoholtreatment.niaaa.nih.gov.

How many people have alcohol use disorder?

Many people struggle with controlling their drinking at some time in their lives. Approximately 17 million adults ages 18 and older have an alcohol use disorder (AUD) and 1 in 10 children live in a home with a parent who has a drinking problem.

How many times is alcohol dependent?

Studies show that people who are alcohol dependent are two to three times as likely to suffer from major depression or anxiety over their lifetime. When addressing drinking problems, it’s important to also seek treatment for any accompanying medical and mental health issues.

What is the first step in a treatment plan?

For anyone thinking about treatment, talking to a primary care physician is an important first step — he or she can be a good source for treatment referrals and medications. A primary care physician can also: Evaluate whether a patient’s drinking pattern is risky. Help craft a treatment plan. Evaluate overall health.

Can medication help with relapse?

Certain medications have been shown to effectively help people stop or reduce their drinking and avoid relapse.

How does behavioral therapy help with alcohol addiction?

Since addiction is usually accompanied by pathological changes in thoughts and actions, treatment plans include behavioral therapies to modify maladaptive behaviors and attitudes related to alcohol abuse. Over the course of alcohol addiction programs, these therapies may be administered though several group and individual counseling sessions. With these types of behavioral interventions, patients learn to better handle triggers and situations that may lead to alcohol use. 7

What is residential alcohol rehab?

Inpatient/residential alcohol treatment centers are able to provide 24-hour rehabilitation and care, while giving patients access to on-call medical and psychiatric services during their stay. Residential facilities vary in amenities and services, but all incorporate a variety of recovery programming such as individual and group counseling, coping skills education, and relapse prevention classes.

What is behavioral therapy?

Behavioral Therapies Used to Treat Alcohol Addiction. Since addiction is usually accompanied by pathological changes in thoughts and actions, treatment plans include behavioral therapies to modify maladaptive behaviors and attitudes related to alcohol abuse.

What is the first step in recovery?

Following a period of chronic and/or heavy alcohol use, and in anticipation of treatment , the initial step on the path to recovery commonly involves a detoxification or withdrawal management period. When a person has developed a significant physical dependence on alcohol and they decide to quit drinking, symptoms of alcohol withdrawal may develop. 4

What is PHP treatment?

PHP treatment settings may be most appropriate for those individuals with relatively stable living environments and stronger support networks; eligibility for PHP treatment may be based on a physician’s assessment of a person’s needed level of care.

How many hours of rehab is required for outpatient?

6 Treatment times may be limited to a few hours throughout the week, mostly in the evenings and on weekends. 6 Attendance requirements vary by program, with some offering daily sessions and others only meeting 1 to 3 times per week. 6

How long does it take to recover from addiction?

Most residential treatment facilities offer 30- to 90-day programs in order to allow patients to focus solely on their recovery without the distractions of their everyday lives. Research indicates that remaining in treatment for an adequate amount of time—based on the severity of addiction and other individual needs—can be critical to recovery. 5 Research supports at least 90 days in treatment to optimize treatment outcomes. 5

What is the most common type of treatment for alcohol problems?

Inpatient or residential treatment is the most common type of treatment for alcohol problems. As the name implies, the person in treatment lives at the center where they are receiving the care. They stay 24/7 at the center for the period of time recommended by the professionals in the initial evaluation.

What are the symptoms of alcohol dependence?

Often when people have become dependent on alcohol, there are a number of accompanying mental health signs. Depression, moodiness, irritability, anger issues, and shame are just a few of the emotional and mental issues seen with an alcohol issue.

What is intensive outpatient therapy?

Intensive outpatient therapy can involve the person in treatment being at the center for most of the day to participate in various types of therapy, work with counselors, utilize medications if needed, and more. Rehab after work is generally after daytime working hours and involves both group and individual therapy.

What are the health issues that occur at this stage of alcoholism?

Cirrhosis of the liver, pancreatitis, hepatitis, and respiratory issues are all health issues occurring at this stage. This final stage of alcoholism is the one most people think of when they think of an alcoholic. The image comes to mind of someone homeless, unkempt, dirty, begging for money for their next drink.

What is the last stage of alcoholism?

Stage 3: Late or End Stage of Alcoholism. This final stage of alcoholism can be deadly if the right alcohol rehab or treatment programs are not found. A lack of care for physical appearance and hygiene and poor diet are now the norm in late alcoholism.

What are the physical symptoms of a second stage of alcohol withdrawal?

Other physical issues can be sweating, shaking, enlarged pupils, decreased appetite, and rapid heartbeat.

What are the negative consequences of excessive drinking?

Relationships with loved ones and friends suffer with alcoholism, sometimes to the extreme. Fighting with family about drinking, losing the trust of friends and family members, losing people in your life because of alcohol use, are just some of the negative consequences of excessive drinking. 4. Social Life Adversity.

How does CBT help with alcohol use?

CBT for alcohol use disorder can take place in a group or one-to-one with a therapist.

What is CBT for alcohol use disorder?

CBT for alcohol use disorder can take place in a group or one-to-one with a therapist. Motivational enhancement therapy (MET) If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, don't wait. Get help today. Speak with WebMD Connect to Care Advisor Call: 855-466-7204* *WebMD may receive a fee.

What is a short counseling session?

Short counseling sessions that happen one-on-one or in a small group. The counselor provides personalized feedback about your drinking and helps you set goals to change your drinking behaviors.

What is AUD treatment?

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic condition characterized by compulsive alcohol use, loss of control over alcohol intake, and a negative emotional state when not drinking. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse ...

Is treatment available inpatient or outpatient?

You will also need to consider your treatment setting. "Treatment is available through both inpatient (residential, at a facility) and outpatient (staying at home during treatment) programs," LeCasse says. "Which program a person chooses will depend on their personal situation, such as finance and childcare."

What should you listen for when a person completes the treatment program?

What you should listen for: When a person completes the treatment program, the program should work with them to develop a “discharge plan.”. This should include recommendations for ongoing recovery support services. Some programs may do periodic telephone “check-ins” to see how patients are doing.

What is the most common type of accreditation for addiction treatment programs?

The two most common types of accreditation for addiction treatment programs are those issued by The Joint Commission and by CARF.

Why are medications helpful?

Why you should ask: Medications can be helpful for many people as part of a treatment plan. They can give the brain a chance to heal while counseling and other recovery supports gain traction. Three non-addicting medications are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat alcohol use disorder.

Do counselors need to be licensed?

You want to get a sense of the programʹs minimum standards for counselors and the credentials most of them have. Virtually all counselors need to be licensed or certified to practice in their state.

Is alcohol use disorder addictive?

As noted above, FDA-approved medications for alcohol use disorder are not addictive. If a program refuses to even consider the use of a medication, their approach is not in line with current scientific evidence. Learn more about alcohol use disorder medications. 7.

How to make sure you get the most out of your addiction treatment?

Make the right for rehabilitation care. Getting ready for recovery is the best way to make sure you get the most out of your addiction treatment.

What are the stages of change in alcohol addiction?

The model that defines these different phases is called the “Stages of Change” model. The Five Stages of Change include Precontemplation, Contemplation, Preparation, Action, Maintenance, and Termination. We’ll discuss each of those stages in more detail below.

What happens if you relapse after sobering for years?

The person has changed their behavior and is living clean and sober, and works to maintain it, i.e., to not relapse. Until the person has had some years under their belt living sober, the risk of relapse can remain high. Termination occurs when the risk of relapse has diminished substantially—to a high degree—due to the well learned skills and abilities for remaining sober, and due to the positive experience of living clean and sober for years. However, even after years of sobriety, the risk for relapse can always be there. Support from family and friends is always helpful. If relapse occurs at any time after being sober for any length of time, taking the necessary steps to get bake to sobriety, e.g., going back to rehab, should happen as quickly as possible. Relapse is not failure; for some, it’s part of the journey of recovery and living sober.

How often do you go to an outpatient treatment center?

With an outpatient program, people visit the treatment center on a periodic basis for counseling and treatment (for example, 3x / week for 10 weeks). This type of treatment is less costly compared to the inpatient treatment because the client does not incur residential costs.

What is the model of recognizing there is a drinking or drug problem and taking action to do something about it?

This model is called the “Stages of Change” model .

What is inpatient rehab?

This choice may be best for persons who are moderately to severely affected by excessive consumption of alcohol. This type of treatment costs more compared to the outpatient treatment because residential costs and other expenses are included. Inpatient rehab provides an environment away from many triggers, e.g., people, places, and things, and an environment of continuous care.

What tests are done to determine if you are still drinking?

To develop your personalized treatment plan and before prescribing medication, your provider will perform a series of clinical assessments and lab tests to diagnose alcohol use disorder, and if you are still drinking, determine the likely severity of your withdrawal period. For severe cases, inpatient treatment may be recommended.

How long does it take to taper off alcohol?

Most patients will taper off withdrawal medications in 5-10 days while medications used for relapse prevention may be prescribed indefinitely. Alcohol use disorder is a chronic relapsing disease, so persistence is key. For most people, continuing medication and regularly following up with a treatment provider is critical to preventing relapse and staying abstinent from alcohol over the long term.

What is outpatient withdrawal management?

Outpatient withdrawal management is reserved for people with little to no risk of dangerous withdrawal symptoms. At your first appointment your provider will assess your risk for severe withdrawal and if warranted, refer you to an inpatient medically-managed withdrawal program. After the withdrawal period is over, you are encouraged to return to us for outpatient relapse prevention treatment.

What to do after withdrawal from a med?

After the withdrawal period, you will transition to a different medication plan designed to prevent relapse . You will start with weekly appointments and then shift to bi-weekly and then monthly as you become more stable. Occasional breathalyzer and lab tests will be performed to ensure your safety and to monitor progress.

Is alcohol use disorder a drug?

This is not an uncommon concern, but the short answer is “no.” All medications approved for treating alcohol use disorder are non-addictive. These medicines are designed to help manage a chronic disease, just as someone might take medications to keep diabetes in check, and allow you to lead a normal, productive life, free of the problems caused by misuse of alcohol.

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When Is It Time For Treatment?

Options For Treatment

  • When asked how alcohol problems are treated, people commonly think of 12-step programs or 28-day inpatient rehab, but may have difficulty naming other options. In fact, there are a variety of treatment methods currently available, thanks to significant advances in the field over the past 60 years. Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and what may work for one person may no…
See more on niaaa.nih.gov

What Fda-Approved Medications Are available?

  • Certain medications have been shown to effectively help people stop or reduce their drinking and avoid relapse.
See more on niaaa.nih.gov

Tips For Selecting Treatment

  • Professionals in the alcohol treatment field offer advice on what to consider when choosing a treatment program. Overall, gather as much information as you can about the program or provider before making a decision on treatment. If you know someone who has first-hand knowledge of the program, it may help to ask about his or her personal experience. Here are some questions y…
See more on niaaa.nih.gov

Resources

  • Please note: NIAAA recently launched the NIAAA Alcohol Treatment Navigator. This online tool helps you find the right treatment for you — and near you. It guides you through a step-by-step process to finding a highly qualified professional treatment provider. Learn more at https://alcoholtreatment.niaaa.nih.gov.
See more on niaaa.nih.gov

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