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Therapy Methods for Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol addiction is a disease that devastates individual lives and families. There are no shortcuts to recovery. There are various therapy methods, and what works for one person may not benefit another. It is important for patients to understand different therapy methods to treat alcohol addiction and discuss them with their loved ones, to choose the one that is best suited for their situation.

  1. Investigate Medications

    • It is always advisable to seek the counsel of your doctor when seeking alcohol addiction therapy. He may prescribe medication to assist you.

      The Addiction Recovery Center discusses drugs on their website that are sometimes used to treat alcoholics seeking recovery. For example, Topirmate, also called Topomax, reduces alcohol cravings and helps patients not to obsessively think about drinking. Nefazodone, also known as Serzone, is another widely used drug in alcohol treatment therapy. It is an antidepressant that has proven to be beneficial in reducing cravings for alcohol. However, it should be noted that the drug has been associated with liver problems and has been removed from the Canadian market. Some side effects have been reported including fatigue and nausea.

    Investigate Outpatient Therapy

    • Get informed about the outpatient treatment programs available where you live. JoinTogether.org, a website maintained by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University, tells readers that these programs are often beneficial for patients who have strong support systems at home.

      DrugAbuse.gov reports that behavior therapy treatments assist substance abusers in changing their attitude and behavior related to their addiction. They also help them develop skills to handle stress in their lives, which may have caused them to drink in the past.

      Alcoholics Anonymous, famous for their "Twelve Step Program," is one example of outpatient treatment. The group unites alcoholics with recovering alcoholics, who can strengthen and mentor them. The program builds a support system of people who are suffering or who have suffered with the disease of alcoholism. AA is not affiliated with any church or political party and exists for the sole purpose of helping people get and stay sober. The program is free to anyone wishing to stop drinking.

    Investigate Residential Therapy

    • Investigate residential treatment centers and the various programs that they offer if it appears that getting treatment on an outpatient basis will not suffice.

      The National Institute on Drug Abuse informs visitors to their website, NIDA.HIH.gov, that residential treatment is especially beneficial to patients who have more severe issues. Residential programs usually last between six months and a year. These programs include individual therapy as well as group therapy sessions with other residents.

      An additional benefit of residential therapy is that patients have 24-hour assistance and medical supervision during any detoxification period they may need to endure.

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