Understanding the available treatment options—from behavioral therapies and medications to mutual-support groups—is the first step. The important thing is to remain engaged in whatever method you choose. Brief Interventions are short, one-on-one or small-group counseling sessions that are time limited.
What Are the Types of Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder?
It may help to seek support from others, including friends, family, community, and support groups. If you are developing your own symptoms of depression or anxiety, think about seeking professional help for yourself. Remember that your loved one is ultimately responsible for managing their own illness. This guide is written for individuals—and their family and friends—who are looking for options to address alcohol problems. It is intended as a resource to understand what treatment choices are available and what to consider when selecting among them. For more information, please visit the NIAAA Alcohol Treatment Navigator®, an online tool that helps individuals find the right treatment for them—and near them.
Alcohol Use Disorder: Symptoms, Treatment & Screening
Talk to your doctor to see of one of those might be right for you. If you have a concern that you have AUD, you can see a health professional for consultation. They may ask you about your drinking https://ecosoberhouse.com/ habits and health history.
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Many others substantially reduce their drinking and report fewer alcohol-related problems. Other signs of concern social drinking and drinking problem include needing to drink more alcohol to produce the same effects and having strong cravings for alcohol. Alcohol use that creates problems with your ability to function at home, at work, in school, or in your relationships is a sign of a drinking problem. People with alcohol addiction physically crave the substance and are often inconsolable until they start drinking again. At this stage, you no longer want to drink just for pleasure.
- Remember, seeking professional help is a crucial step towards addressing alcohol-related concerns.
- For many, continued follow-up with a treatment provider is critical for overcoming alcohol problems.
- How does the program or provider handle a return to drinking?
Steps to Take When Seeking Help
While alcohol can temporarily alleviate symptoms of anxiety or depression, it often masks underlying mental health issues rather than resolving them. Over time, alcohol use can exacerbate these conditions or even trigger new mental health problems. Health professionals sometimes prescribe medications to reduce the symptoms of withdrawal. Other medications can help you quit drinking by suppressing alcohol cravings or making you feel sick when alcohol enters your body.
- Weight changes occur as the body struggles to maintain proper nutrition while processing large amounts of alcohol.
- Treatment of AUD focuses on relieving symptoms of alcohol withdrawal in the short term and then suppressing alcohol cravings in the long term.
- It can also lead to serious symptoms like seizures, fever, or hallucinations, and can be a medical emergency.
- Brief Interventions are short, one-on-one or small-group counseling sessions that are time limited.
Addiction physicians and therapists in solo or group practices can also provide flexible outpatient care. These and other outpatient options may reduce stigma and other barriers to treatment. Telehealth specialty services and online support groups, for example, can allow people to maintain their routines and privacy and may encourage earlier acceptance of treatment. The NIAAA Alcohol Treatment Navigator can help you connect patients with the full range of evidence–based, professional alcohol treatment providers. When seeking professional help, it is important that you feel respected and understood and that you trust the person, group, or organization to help you. However, remember that relationships with health care providers can take time to develop.
