Often leading to significant complications in the lives of those who experience it, alcohol dependence can be challenging to manage. It can impact an individual’s relationships, emotional and physical health, and career. Despite these negative effects, treatment can help those who are living with alcohol use disorder manage their symptoms and work through underlying concerns. Below, we’re going to cover alcohol use disorder, its symptoms, common risk factors, treatment options, and where to turn for help. Although disulfiram, naltrexone, and acamprosate are the only medications approved by the FDA for AUD, other drugs are sometimes prescribed off-label. For example, the epilepsy medicine topiramate or semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, may help people drink less alcohol.
Where Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Go Hand-In-Hand
While disulfiram has been prescribed since 1951, it’s usually the shunned stepchild compared to “newer” naltrexone or acamprosate. However, experts have taken a new look at disulfiram, indicating it may be very effective in some patients with AUD looking to give up drinking totally. Rather than either/or, Naltrexone, disulfiram, acamprosate, and Injectable naltrexone are safe to use and effective against AUD but should be optimized with behavioral treatment and alcoholism treatment AA . Your treatment plan will be structured and individualized based on your clinical needs. If you are in one of our residential treatment programs, you will receive a schedule each day with the individual and group sessions to attend. For example, antidepressants, if someone with an alcohol addiction were self-medicating to treat their depression.
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For lasting results, therapists may also help patients create positive support systems and healthier coping strategies. Alcohol counselors might even use tailored methodologies to help precipitate lifestyle changes and decrease the risk of relapse. Some doctors might also recommend a psychological evaluation from a mental health professional. This may consist of more in-depth questions about your thoughts, emotions, and relationship with alcohol.
Two main components of professionally led treatment
Outpatient rehab ranges from a couple of hours per week to several hours per day, depending on the level and intensity. Regardless of the frequency, you can live at home while recovering from alcohol addiction, which allows for more flexibility with your schedule and routine. Although many people drink alcohol in moderation to relax or enjoy social activities, alcohol use can progress to AUD, also known as alcohol addiction. As a loved one of someone with an alcohol addiction, try to be encouraging and provide emotional support.
- Before starting the treatment process, a person must first recognize their condition and have a desire to quit drinking.
- Three medications are currently approved in the United States to help people stop or reduce their drinking and prevent a return to drinking.
- See the Frequently Asked Questions for helpful suggestions.
- However, not everyone likes AA, and there is considerable variability among meetings.
- Caring for a person who has problems with alcohol can be very stressful.
Twelve-step groups also act alcohol addiction help as peer support groups, providing individuals with camaraderie, accountability, and encouragement throughout their recovery. Motivational interviewing (MI) is a therapy technique that is often used in the treatment of addiction. MI is especially helpful for recovering alcoholics who may not recognize the importance of changing their behavior or might feel that there isn’t much of a point in changing.
- They can work in solo or group practices or in health care centers.
- Faith-based facilities may also have different rules and guidelines than state-funded rehabs or private treatment centers.
- If you or someone you care about is struggling with an alcohol problem, get support from a licensed therapist.
- Many forms of therapy (e.g., online therapy) provide you with flexible options that make treatment more personal.
- It’s important to remember these medications are not magic cures for alcoholism, and they work best alongside counseling and therapy.
Alcohol Abuse Versus Addiction
In November 2021, OnPoint NYC opened the first publicly recognized Overdose Prevention Centers in the country. They are syringe service programs that have operated in Washington Heights and East Harlem for years. In addition to professionally led treatment, many people benefit from mutual support groups. Groups can vary widely, so it’s important to try different ones to find a good fit.