By We Level Up Editorial Team | Edited By Rebecca Hill | Medically Reviewed By Dr. Chris Small

Alcoholism and Addiction: Getting Help

Alcoholism is a serious medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can greatly harm the body. Many individuals who struggle with alcohol use find it difficult to stop without help.

Fortunately, effective evidence-based treatments are available. This blog explains what alcoholism is and the different options for treatment. It also explores the challenges people face during recovery and why getting the right support is so important.

If you are in Spokane or the surrounding areas, consider getting your alcohol treatment at We Level Up Washington rehabilitation center. Our alcohol treatment Washington focuses on a dual approach that manages alcoholism and any substance use disorders an individual may have.

Understanding Alcohol Misuse

Alcohol misuse happens when a person drinks in a way that causes harm. This can include drinking too often or binge drinking large amounts at once. It can also mean drinking in situations where it is dangerous, like before driving.

Alcohol misuse can damage the body and mind over time. It can lead to problems with memory and relationships. Most people who misuse alcohol struggle to stop without help.

What is Alcohol Use Disorder?

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) happens when a person cannot control their drinking. People with AUD may keep drinking even when it causes them harm. They have strong cravings to drink.

Some may spend a lot of time thinking about alcohol or trying to get it. Others may need more alcohol over time to feel the same effect. AUD can range from mild to severe and can affect a person’s job and relationships. A doctor can diagnose AUD based on certain signs.

What is Binge Drinking?

Binge drinking is a pattern of drinking that raises the level of alcohol in the blood quickly. This means having five or more drinks within 2 hours for men. For women, it means four or more drinks in the same duration.

People binge drink to feel the effects of alcohol fast. Binge drinking is not the same as Alcohol Use Disorder, but it can lead to it. It increases the risk of accidents and long-term health problems. Even one episode of binge drinking can be harmful.

Causes of Alcoholism

No single cause leads to alcoholism. Also known as Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), it results from a combination of biological, psychological, and social influences. Below is a deeper look at the known causes of alcoholism:

Genetics

A person’s risk of developing alcoholism increases if they have a close relative with the condition. Studies show that genetics can affect how the brain responds to alcohol. Some people may inherit traits that make them more likely to misuse alcohol. These include a lower sensitivity to its effects.

However, having a family history does not guarantee that someone will become addicted. It only raises the risk.

Mental Health Conditions

Many people with alcohol problems also live with mental health issues. These may include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Trauma-related disorders

Alcohol seems to provide short-term relief from emotional pain. But, it makes symptoms worse over time. People with untreated mental health conditions may turn to alcohol as a way to cope. This can lead to a harmful cycle that is hard to break.

Environment

The environment where a person grows up also plays a role. Some of the conditions that can raise the risk include:

• Early exposure to alcohol
• Lack of parental supervision
• Peer pressure
• Stressful life events, such as divorce

Heavy drinking may be more accepted in some cultures. This can make it harder for people to recognize when their drinking has become a problem.

Biological Factors

Alcohol changes the way the brain works. It affects areas that control behavior, emotion, and judgment.

The brain adapts to the presence of alcohol with time. This leads to tolerance as the person needs more alcohol to feel the same effects. Eventually, the brain may depend on alcohol to function normally. This dependence can turn into addiction.

Symptoms of Alcoholism

These are the main symptoms of alcoholism:

• Loss of control
• Strong cravings
• Tolerance
• Withdrawal symptoms.
• Neglecting responsibilities
• Risky behavior
• Relationship problems
• Continued use despite harm

These symptoms vary from person to person. Some may show only a few signs, while others may experience many.

Types of Alcohol Treatment Options

Different treatment options are available depending on the severity of the condition and the needs of the individual. Those seeking treatment for alcoholism have different severity levels and needs.

Detoxification

Also known as detox, this is typically the first step in treatment. It helps the body clear out drugs or alcohol with medication management. This process can cause mild to severe withdrawal symptoms.

Detox happens a lot in a medical setting in many cases. This allows health professionals to prevent complications.

Inpatient Residential Treatment

Patients live at the facility during treatment. Inpatient programs provide 24-hour care. These programs often include:

• Therapy
• Medical support
• Group counseling

They are best for people with severe alcohol use or who have tried other treatments without success. The length of stay can stretch to several months, encouraging relapse prevention.

Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient programs allow people to live at home while attending regular treatment sessions. There are different levels of care, such as:

• Standard outpatient therapy
• Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs)

These programs are more flexible and may suit those with milder symptoms or strong support at home.

Behavioral Therapy

Common therapeutic approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing. Individual and group therapy are both beneficial.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recommends certain medications to support alcohol addiction recovery. They work by:

• Reducing cravings
• Blocking the effects of alcohol
• Causing unpleasant reactions when alcohol is consumed.

Common alcoholism medications include:

• Naltrexone
• Acamprosate
• Disulfiram

Medication is normally used alongside counseling and therapy.

Support Groups

Peer support is an important part of recovery. Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) provide a safe space to share experiences. Support groups help people stay motivated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We Level Up Dual Diagnosis Rehab in Washington

The most effective alcohol treatment is dual treatment. This treatment ensures the individual manages all co-occurring conditions that may amplify alcoholism.

We Level Up Washington provides dual diagnosis treatment for alcoholism and mental health. Our facility offers the best chance to regain control and live a healthier life. Contact us today for dual diagnosis rehab from our team of the most experienced mental health professionals in Washington.

Summary

Call today to speak with our team and learn more about our programs. We Level Up Washington: (509) 348-4077. Your next step starts here.