The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism explains that “alcohol interferes with the brain’s communication pathways, and can affect the way the brain looks and works.” Alcohol addiction, also known as alcoholism or alcohol use disorder (AUD), is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as a chronic brain disorder. According to the Mayo Clinic alcoholism is characterized by a “pattern of alcohol use that involves problems controlling your drinking, being preoccupied with alcohol, continuing to use alcohol even when it causes problems, having to drink more to get the same effect, or having withdrawal symptoms when you rapidly decrease or stop drinking.” Individuals that struggle with alcoholism prioritize satisfying alcohol cravings above all else. Alcohol use disorder is a mental health condition that requires treatment. Hence, not only is alcohol rehab worth it, but for many people struggling with alcohol abuse, and certainly for those with AUD, attending rehab plays an integral role in one’s recovery outcome and overall quality of life.
Rehab Options
Alcohol rehab programs are typically divided into two formats: inpatient treatment programs and outpatient treatment programs. Inpatient treatment options require an individual to reside at the treatment facility for the duration of the program, whereas outpatient treatment options do not. Though they differ in setting and structure, both inpatient and outpatient rehab options share the same primary goal, which is defined in the Merriam-Webster Dictionary as “helping someone (such as an injured patient or a drug user) to become healthy again.” Treatment programs can vary in duration, typically ranging between twenty-one days long to three months long, in some cases longer.
Most rehab facilities recognize that every person is different, and that each person will require a somewhat individualized treatment plan when it comes to recovering from alcoholism. Depending on one’s needs, these treatment plans may consist of a combination of a wide variety of distinct therapeutic modalities, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), psychodynamic psychotherapy, interpersonal therapy (IPT), mindfulness-based therapy, expressive arts therapies, etc. Upon the completion of an alcohol rehab program an individual will leave with a customized aftercare plan. An aftercare plan is a co creation between the individual and his or her clinical care team that is developed during treatment. This serves as a personalized resource that provides individuals with both detailed and broad guidance, often including suggestions for how to navigate challenges post treatment, strategies for relapse prevention, and more to help with continued sober success.
For Information and Support
If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding substance abuse and/ or addiction, we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. If left untreated, substance abuse can result in long lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. Keep in mind: you are not alone! There is an entire network of professionals that are available to help and support you and your loved one throughout the recovery process. The earlier you seek support, the sooner your loved one can return to a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions regarding our specific program at Haven House Addiction Treatment and/ or general substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment related information. Our highly trained staff is readily available to discuss how we might best be able to help you and your loved one. We can be reached by phone at 424-258-6792. You are also welcomed to contact anytime us via email at admissions@hhtxc.com.
