Millions of individuals struggle to stop drinking, leading to a cycle of addiction. It can have devastating consequences on an individual’s mental and physical health, as well as their relationships and social life. From work to family to financial impacts, alcohol abuse can wreak havoc on all parts of an individual’s life. If there are so many consequences, why do people abuse alcohol?
At Promises Dallas-Fort Worth in Lewisville, Texas, adults struggling with alcohol addiction can get evidence-based care in one place, including medical detox, residential treatment, partial hospitalization and virtual intensive outpatient care. Call (469) 546-9303 to talk with our admissions team about options for yourself or a loved one.
What Is Alcohol Abuse?
Alcohol abuse occurs when a person has difficulty controlling their urge to drink on a regular basis. It is the most common form of substance use disorder (SUD) in the United States and can have serious health implications over the long term.
When a person abuses alcohol, it means that they drink excessively and frequently, often to the point of strong intoxication. Unfortunately, the path from social drinking to alcohol abuse can be surprisingly short. Research has shown that people who regularly abuse alcohol are more likely to develop a dependence on it more quickly than those who drink in moderation. Alcohol abuse very often leads to alcohol addiction, which can be very difficult to kick and leads to detrimental side effects and withdrawal symptoms.
Why People Abuse Alcohol
People may drink for various reasons, and abuse is common due to the addictive and sedative effects of drinking. Some common reasons for abusing alcohol include:
- Coping with stress or difficult emotions
- Fitting in with others who are drinking and using drugs
- Escaping from reality
- Avoiding withdrawal symptoms
Alcohol has a sedating effect on the brain and body, making it attractive for those struggling with the stress of daily life. Unfortunately, turning to alcohol to relieve stress can cause someone to develop a tolerance. Tolerance is when someone drinks regularly, causing them to need more alcohol to feel the same effects. This leads to chemical dependence in the brain.
Effects of Alcohol Dependence
Alcohol abuse often leads to dependence on alcohol, which may lead to various symptoms that include:
- Engaging in risky behaviors
- Neglecting responsibilities for work, school, or family
- Experiencing multiple legal problems related to alcohol use
- Frequently consuming large amounts of alcohol despite negative consequences
- Developing a tolerance to the effects of alcohol
- Attempts at cutting down without success
- Social isolation
- Sudden changes in mood
It is essential to recognize the signs of alcohol abuse in order for individuals to receive appropriate treatment before their addiction worsens over time. With a variety of treatments available, including counseling sessions, behavioral therapies, and support groups, it is possible for people experiencing addiction to find a path toward recovery so they can live healthy lives free from substance abuse.
Alcohol Abuse Treatment Is Effective
Alcohol abuse treatment programs are instrumental in providing the opportunity to receive professional treatment that can help address the underlying causes of alcohol abuse. Treatment plans range from outpatient counseling to residential rehab programs depending on the severity of the addiction and individual needs. Counseling and therapy can help individuals learn positive coping skills to prevent relapse as well as address underlying issues related to their substance use disorder.
Behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), are used to help individuals identify triggers for their substance use and develop strategies for being mindful of them in the future. Support groups can also be an important part of treatment by providing guidance and emotional support while helping individuals learn how to cope with triggering situations without resorting to substance use.
Get Help for Alcohol Addiction at Promises Dallas-Fort Worth
Promises Dallas-Fort Worth provides medical detox, residential treatment, partial hospitalization and virtual intensive outpatient care for adults at our Joint Commission-accredited center in Lewisville, Texas. Learn more about our alcohol addiction treatment, or let our admissions team verify your insurance before you commit. Call (469) 546-9303 or contact us online to get started.