Alcohol addiction is becoming increasingly prevalent among Americans. A 2022 study revealed that 2.2 million adults aged 18 and older reported experiencing alcohol addiction and sought treatment within the past year. Binge drinking and alcohol misuse have become normalized, particularly among younger adults, making it harder to recognize the problem. Many signs of alcohol addiction may seem inconsequential, but at their core, they signal deeper issues.
Overlooked Signs of Alcohol Addiction
As binge drinking and party culture become more accepted, it becomes easier to dismiss certain signs of alcohol addiction. Common signs that are often destigmatized include:
- Drinking without the ability to stop once started.
- Frequently becoming sick during or after drinking.
- Making dangerous choices, such as driving under the influence.
- Facing legal or financial issues as a result of drinking.
These behaviors might be viewed as rites of passage for young adults or occasional lapses for others, but they are indicative of a problematic relationship with alcohol.
Subtle Indicators of Alcohol Addiction
Beyond the more visible signs, there are additional, less obvious indicators of alcohol addiction. These often appear alongside the previously mentioned signs and, when combined, strongly suggest an underlying issue. These subtle signs include:
- Trying to stop drinking but being unable to do so.
- Feeling unable to enjoy activities without alcohol.
- Allowing drinking to disrupt work or family responsibilities.
- Needing larger amounts of alcohol to achieve the same effect.
These less apparent signs are often hidden by individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. Isolation, excuses, and secrecy are common strategies used to conceal their dependence.
Steps to Address Alcohol Addiction
Seeking treatment for alcohol addiction is challenging but essential for recovery. The first phase of treatment involves detox, which should always take place in a medically supervised environment. During detox, healthcare professionals administer medications to ease discomfort and manage withdrawal symptoms. Attempting to detox alone at home can lead to severe, even life-threatening consequences.
After completing medical detox, individuals typically enter a residential treatment program. These programs focus on addressing the root causes of alcohol addiction through comprehensive care. Treatment often includes:
- Individual and group therapy sessions.
- Developing relapse prevention strategies.
- Participating in sober activities such as art, music, and exercise.
- Ongoing evaluations by medical professionals to tailor the treatment plan as progress is made.
Once residential treatment concludes, individuals transition to an intensive outpatient program (IOP) or partial hospitalization program (PHP). These programs allow clients to receive continued treatment while living at home or in their chosen accommodations. The focus during this phase is to build upon coping mechanisms and relapse prevention skills developed earlier in treatment.
Recovery Is a Journey
Recovery from alcohol addiction is a multi-phase process, and each person’s journey is unique. It’s crucial to practice patience and trust the process. If you or someone you care about exhibits signs of alcohol addiction, reach out to the professionals at Solution Based Treatment. Our comprehensive care includes everything from admissions and detox to residential treatment, outpatient programs, and ongoing support into sobriety.
About Solution Based Treatment
Solution Based Treatment is a national leader in detox and rehab programs. We offer inpatient medical detox, substance rehab, intensive outpatient programs, partial hospitalization programs, faith-based recovery, and sober living options. We maintain a 2:1 client to staff ratio to offer the best support possible to our patients within upscale living environments. At Solution Based Treatment, we support better living for brighter futures, all starting with our detox and rehab services. For more information visit our website at solutionbasedtreatment.com or give us a call at (833) 999-1941.