Alcohol Treatment Programs: What You Should Know

Posted on: 2 April 2015

When you or a person you love suffers from an alcohol problem or addiction, you may not know what you can do to handle it. However, you are not alone. Alcohol abuse and addiction are extremely common problems in the United States. In fact, of people 18 or older in the United States, it is estimated that almost 17 million suffer from an alcohol use problem. As such, it is important to get to know and understand the alcohol treatment program options available and seek help if you or someone you love is among those 17 million sufferers.

Alcohol Detox

The first step in any form of alcohol treatment program is detoxification. Detox is the process of ridding the alcohol from the body entirely so that recovery can begin with a sober mind and body. 

Many people who are struggling with alcoholism (alcohol addiction) attempt to quit drinking on their own at home many times throughout their lives. However, home alcohol detox is difficult and can even be dangerous due to the associated withdrawal symptoms.

Alcohol detox that occurs in a rehabilitation facility or hospital is preferable for two reasons. First, when detox is supervised by trained staff, a person is less likely to give up mid-detox. Second, medical professionals will quickly be able to address any health concerns that arise while the alcohol leaves a patient's system.

Alcohol Rehabilitation

Once detox is complete, there are more options for alcohol treatment programs. Alcohol rehabilitation can occur in inpatient or outpatient facilities. Inpatient treatment occurs in rehab facilities, and completely separates the recovering alcoholic from their regular, daily life.

This initial separation can help a person to focus entirely upon their recovery and avoid immediate relapse. However, some people cannot take the time away from family or work to stay in a rehab facility. For those people, outpatient treatment is possible.

Alcohol rehabilitation usually includes individual, group, and family therapy. These therapies are designed to help patients identify and cope with underlying causes of alcohol addiction and triggers. Additionally, patients relearn social skills and begin to mend relationships with family and friends. 

Alcohol treatment programs can also include acupuncture, chiropractic care, art therapy, and equine therapy to help supplement the core therapy needed for alcohol rehabilitation. Art therapy and equine therapy can help a person to get back in touch with their emotions and to understand how their emotions can affect relationships with others. 

Knowing the alcohol treatment process will help you to cope with the situation should you or a loved one require such treatment in the future. So keep these facts in mind in the future. For more information, contact a company like Arizona Consulting And Counseling Services.

Share