The abuse of alcohol is a problem with almost 16 million Americans. Here is some more info on Alcohol Use Disorder.
What is Alcohol Use Disorder?
When regular alcohol use becomes a problem or a health risk, it is considered an alcohol use disorder (AUD). The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, about 16 million Americans struggle with an AUD. Depending on the number of diagnostic symptoms that are experienced within the span of one year, the AUD classified as mild, moderate, or severe.
Once someone realizes that they have a problem with alcohol consumption and decides to seek help, they will likely need to undergo a residential detox before starting treatment. This is required to ensure that the patient is level headed, sober, and stabilized before entering the treatment program so they can wholly participate in their recovery.
During the residential detox the vital signs will be closely monitored. Severe symptoms can suddenly appear on days 3 or 4 of the detox process, which is why there is such close supervision.
As the withdrawal symptoms commence and intensify, the detox specialists will offer various medications to prevent seizures and ease the discomfort. There will be medication provided for headaches, fever, nausea, diarrhea, and fever; benzodiazepines are offered for anxiety, insomnia,, and seizure prevention.
Alcohol detox lasts for about 5 to 7 days, with most symptoms dying down at that point.
Transitioning Into Recovery
Following the residential detox process, the individual will be ready to begin treatment. Treatment for alcoholism involves an integrated approach accessing evidence-based psychotherapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and others, along with other activities that will compliment the traditional therapies.
After completing the rehab program, which can last 1-12 months depending on the severity of the AUD, the continuing care services should come into play. These help to reinforce recovery efforts during the early months following rehab, as it is a vulnerable time that can result in relapse.
Continuing care might include sober living housing, ongoing therapy at an outpatient rehab, and attending recovery community meetings such as SMART Recovery or A.A.
At Asana Recovery, we understand how difficult recovering from these addictions through our daily work to help those struggling most from this disease. While some may believe they can make it alone, rehabilitation programs are essential in the fight to break dependency. The road ahead is not a smooth or easy one, but you can traverse it if done so with the support of the right team.
Counseling and aftercare processes can assist you by addressing the psychological facets that led you to addition and help you build a structure from which to better cope with life without succumbing to addiction.
The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery, and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future.
There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
