Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic brain condition that involves a persistent pattern of compulsive drinking that can have serious consequences on someone’s personal, professional, and social life. AUD can be mild or very serious, and it can affect anyone, no matter their age, gender, or background. Understanding more about alcohol addiction can help you or someone you care about find the support to achieve your alcohol recovery goals.
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a medical condition where a person can’t control or stop drinking alcohol, even when it causes problems in their life. This disorder includes what used to be called alcohol abuse, dependence, addiction, and alcoholism. AUD is diagnosed using criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).
AUD can be mild, moderate, or severe, based on how many symptoms you may have. Mild means having two or three symptoms, while severe means having six or more. Common symptoms of alcoholism include increased tolerance to alcohol, addiction withdrawal symptoms, unsuccessful efforts to cut down on drinking, and continuing to drink despite its negative impact on your life.
Medication-assisted treatment for alcohol is a comprehensive approach that uses both medicine and counseling to treat alcohol addiction effectively. This treatment works by balancing your brain chemistry, reducing or stopping withdrawal symptoms, and controlling cravings. Together, these can help you stay sober and take back control of your life.
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of alcohol addiction is crucial for seeking timely intervention and treatment. Some common indicators include:
AUD exists on a spectrum, with varying degrees of severity. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), outlines the criteria for diagnosing AUD based on the number of symptoms an individual exhibits. Mild AUD is characterized by the presence of 2-3 symptoms, moderate AUD involves 4-5 symptoms, and severe AUD is diagnosed when an individual displays 6 or more symptoms.
Chronic alcohol use can seriously affect a person’s physical and mental health.. The long-term effects of alcohol addiction can be harmful and, in some cases, life-threatening.
Outpatient treatment for alcoholism offers a flexible approach to recovery, allowing individuals to receive professional support while maintaining their daily routines and responsibilities. This treatment is an effective option for those with mild to moderate alcohol use or as a step-down approach after completing an alcohol detox or residential program.
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach that combines behavioral therapy with medications to treat alcohol. MAT is effective in reducing cravings, preventing relapse, and promoting long-term recovery.
Addiction counseling is an essential part of treatment for alcohol dependence. It involves various evidence-based approaches that address the psychological, emotional, and behavioral aspects of addiction, helping individuals develop coping strategies, identify and modify negative thought patterns, and build a foundation for long-term recovery. Some of the most common addiction therapies include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, contingency management, trauma therapy, and family therapy.
Peer support plays an important role in the recovery journey. Connecting with others who have experienced similar challenges and are on their own paths to sobriety can provide invaluable support, encouragement, and accountability. At Eleanor Health our Community Recovery Partners have been where you are and are ready to help you maintain sobriety and reduce feelings of isolation. Having a person who has shared similar experiences as you and from whom you can receive advice is particularly helpful during early recovery.
Online alcohol treatment has emerged as a convenient and accessible option for individuals seeking support in their alcohol recovery journey. At Eleanor Health, we provide holistic online addiction treatment services with a compassionate approach. We combine the power of medication and therapy to create personalized treatment plans fit to your recovery needs. Contact us by filling out our online form or calling us today to get more information.
