Alcohol abuse and addiction is a debilitating illness. Alcohol abuse, also known as alcoholism, involves not only desire for alcoholic drinks, but also physical dependence and an inability to control the drug. Alcoholism is categorized as a disease because it is a chronic illness that can lead to devastating health problems and states of personal crisis. Despite the challenges associated with alcohol abuse, many treatment options exist for those who suffer from it.
Detoxification and Recovery
One of the first and major steps in the treatment of alcoholism is detoxification. Detoxification includes completely discontinuing the use of alcohol, which often results in withdrawal symptoms such as anxiousness and insomnia. The recovery period may take months--and even years--during which time the patient is susceptible to relapse. A variety of medications and behavioral treatments may be integrated during this period.
Oral Medication
One option for sufferers of alcohol addiction is oral medication. According to Medicinenet.com, three oral medications are offered for the treatment of alcoholism. These three are disulfiram, naltrexone and acamprosate. Disulfiram causes a person taking the drug to feel sick after drinking alcohol, thus acting as a deterrent. Naltrexone affects the brain and reduces cravings for alcohol. Acamprosate decreases the symptoms that occur after an alcoholic has stopped consuming alcohol. This increases the likelihood that he will remain abstinent from alcohol.
Behavioral Therapies
People who suffer from alcoholism may choose behavior therapies as part or their entire treatment programs when overcoming the disease. Cognitive behavior therapy is designed to help patients identify and deal with (and avoid) situations that may lead to alcohol consumption. Multidimensional family therapy focuses on drug abuse by adolescents and involves the abuser and her family. Motivational therapy includes coaching a person through his treatment by helping him recognize his desire for change and his ability to follow through with it.
Rehab Centers
Drug rehabilitation centers are designed to assist people who want to end a drug or alcohol addiction. Both facilities and treatment options differ greatly depending on the treatment center chosen. Inpatient treatment centers require that patients stay at established facilities and undergo a variety of treatments that may include detoxification, medication, psychotherapy, and even physical exercise. Outpatient treatment programs usually include medication and therapy as well; however, they do not require patients to stay on site during treatment.
Support Groups
Support groups can be a great and usually free way to get support while recovering from alcoholism. Some people use support groups as their major forms of treatment, finding assistance and confidence in groups of peers who suffer from the same disease. Such groups like Alcoholics Anonymous often involve 12-step programs to recovery, which include a sponsor or person to contact when fearing a relapse. These groups also have meetings and materials to assist the alcohol abuser throughout her recovery.
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