Alcohol abuse brings with it many dangers and can cause lasting physical and mental damage. The sooner you can recognize the signs of alcoholism in someone you love, the sooner you can connect them to the help they need. Contact The Arbor at 844.413.2690 to learn more about our alcohol addiction treatment program and how it assists in combating alcoholism.
Behavioral Signs of Alcoholism
Drinking is incredibly common in American society. And on its own, having a few drinks at a party is not necessarily a precursor to or a sign of alcohol addiction. The majority of people are able to responsibly enjoy alcohol without developing an addiction. At the same time, alcohol is an addictive substance whose intake will always bring some risk.
Alcohol abuse or alcoholism is a term used in cases where physical dependence on alcohol has been developed, and negative consequences from the drug use begin to build up. Moreover, alcoholism is one of the most-encountered addictions in teens and young adults. The early 20s, in particular, are a period of heavy drinking for a large percentage of people. As a result, it is also the life stage when addiction is most likely to occur. Some behavioral signs of alcohol addiction to watch out for include:
- An inability to control alcohol use when at parties or social gatherings
- Growing academic or work issues such as slipping grades, absenteeism, or poor performance
- Voicing a need for alcohol to relax or feel good
- Financial issues resulting from overabundant alcohol use
Physical Signs of Alcohol Addiction
While the behavioral signs of alcoholism may be most visible, the physical signs of alcohol addiction are also worth looking out for. Alcohol abuse brings a set of short- and long-term physical complications. Ultimately, alcohol addiction often damages internal organs and creates havoc in the lives of those who struggle with it. Common physical signs of alcohol addiction are:
- Nausea
- Vision problems
- Headaches
- Breathing issues
- Cognition issues or memory problems
Extending from those physical signs are the long-term effects of alcohol abuse. Prolonged, excessive alcohol intake is shown to lead to a variety of mood disorders, psoriasis, cirrhosis of the liver, tremors, and even permanent brain damage. Certain health risks related to proper brain development are highest among teens and young adults who struggle with alcohol addiction.
Alcohol Addiction Treatment
For people struggling with alcohol addiction, the best thing they can do is to seek professional help. Attempting to beat alcoholism on your own likely won’t end well. One reason for this is the difficulty many people experience in trying to undergo detoxification related to alcohol addiction.
Detoxing from alcoholism involves withdrawal symptoms. These are at times as severe as hallucinations and delirium tremens. Conducting a medically supervised detox is highly recommended for anyone looking to recover from alcoholism. After a successful detox, people in recovery enter a period of ongoing medication and therapy.
Alcohol addiction treatment generally employs customized behavioral therapies matched with medications that support people in avoiding alcohol usage. For instance, disulfiram is a medication used in treating alcoholism due to how it produces uncomfortable side effects when someone drinks. This aids in helping people avoid drinking as the behavior no longer produces any physical benefit.
Get Help at The Arbor
The Arbor has a long history of supporting people in overcoming alcoholism through comprehensive care that targets every aspect of our clients’ well-being. Not only can you find inpatient and outpatient options at The Arbor, but our alcohol rehab programs also provide clients with a transitional space that bridges treatment and the return to full independence. Learn more about The Arbor’s holistic approach to helping people heal from alcohol addiction by calling 844.413.2690.