Addiction can be difficult to overcome. Because of the many addictive substances available, many people struggle with this disease. Fortunately, recovery from addiction is possible. Depending on the drug that had been abused, different treatments may be required.
Dangers of Alcoholism
Due to its accessibility and legality, alcohol is ranked the number one addictive substance in the world. As a central nervous system depressant, alcohol impacts brain function, motor skills, and cognitive functioning. When used in excess, alcohol is likely to act as a poison to the physical body, causing the user to vomit or become unconscious. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 95,000 deaths each year are attributed to alcohol consumption. These fatalities include alcohol-induced traffic accidents, liver failure, and alcohol poisoning, among others.
Signs of Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol has a profound impact on an individual’s life and health. These signs are unique to alcohol abuse. The following side effects are indicators that alcohol use has become an addiction.
Memory loss
Prolonged drinking leads to brain damage and shrinkage, impacting memory and cognitive functioning. Because of this, those struggling with alcoholism typically struggle with memory.
Physical bloating
Alcohol dehydrates the body, causing it to store excess water. Because alcohol is high in calories, weight gain contributes to bloating as well. Bloating is a frequent sign that addiction has developed.
Irritability and extreme mood swings
Alcohol affects the brain’s dopamine regulation. Excessive or prolonged drinking consequently prevents the brain from functioning normally, resulting in extreme agitation, anger, and dramatic mood swings.
Bloodshot eyes
Alcohol abuse causes the blood vessels within the eyes to swell and sometimes burst, resulting in a constant bloodshot appearance.
How to Recover from an Alcohol Addiction
If an individual begins exhibiting signs of addiction, such as a desperate need to continue use, change in appearance, or extreme mood swings, professional treatment is crucial. In many cases, the first step in treating alcoholism is undergoing detox. Because of the health complications that may arise during the detox process, it is highly recommended that the individual seeks medical assistance during this stage. Clinically supervised detox can guarantee that the individual can be safe during the withdrawal process.
Once an individual has shed all residual traces of alcohol, it is important to seek additional care. Research has shown that behavioral therapies are very effective in treating addiction. Professional addiction therapists work with clients to develop healthy decision-making and coping skills to fight future temptations. Treatment within professional addiction treatment centers also reinforces sobriety by providing a support system among like-minded individuals.
Due to alcohol being highly addictive, addiction treatment within a qualified center increases the likelihood of maintaining sobriety significantly. Upon graduating from one of these programs, continued support within a 12-step group or aftercare program is very beneficial to maintaining life in recovery. These services help individuals gradually transition into independent, drug-free living.
We’re Here for You
Alcohol is a highly addictive substance that inflicts long-term damage on the body when abused. It is important to seek help immediately if you or a loved one is struggling with this addiction. At Asheville Recovery Center, treatment specialists have developed a unique, hybrid model of treatment which combines a traditional 12-step program with holistic rehabilitation. A multitude of services, programs, and therapies are offered, including the Partial Hospitalization Program, Residential-style treatment, outpatient rehabilitation, and more.
The founders of Asheville Recovery Center, as well as many of our addiction therapists, have struggled with addiction and now enjoy life in recovery. They understand the struggles of addiction and how difficult it is to overcome alone. If you feel that you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, our specialists are on standby and ready to help. Call (828)518-6996 and speak with an addiction expert today so you can take the first step towards a rewarding life of sobriety.
