Cures for Alcohol Addiction

An alcohol addiction is an addiction is one that is a lifelong battle, one that is hard fought. There is no instant cure for this disease, only treatment for those who are willing to participate. Once various methods of treatments have been completed, the recovery process continues. It is a process that some struggle with more than others; it's one that never has an end to it. An addiction to alcoholism is not hopeless though--there is plenty of support groups and programs to help the recovering alcoholic remain sober.

Significance

• Getting started in a treatment program is the first step in recovery. However, the first step is often the most difficult. First, the addict must first admit he has a problem with alcohol. Once he begins a program, it will take time for both his mind and body to heal; addiction is as much mental as it is physical. The intensity of the physical cravings can be overwhelming, and depression can creep in and take over. Without the right support and form of treatment, it is likely the addict will relapse.

Types

• There are various types of rehabilitation for alcohol addicts, each geared toward the severity of the alcoholic's addiction. The most commonly used types of rehab are detoxification, rehabilitation centers and outpatient rehab. Aside from these, there are also a wide variety of support groups for the alcoholic and her family.

Detoxification

• This type of treatment is considered to be the first step in any alcoholic overcoming their addiction. It is a pivotal piece of the puzzle for the patient to become successfully rehabilitated. It is usually conducted in an inpatient medical facility, such as a hospital or a rehabilitation center so the patient can be monitored and assisted through his withdrawal symptoms. The severity and length of time the alcoholic experiences his symptoms for depends on the length of time he abused alcohol for and how heavy his use was. However, during detox, there are medications available to help relieve the symptoms.

Residential Rehab

• Residential rehab programs provide a dorm-like setting for those who are trying to recover from their addiction, as well as around-the-clock care. This is a wonderful option for people who need to focus on their addiction and recovery without the influence of the outside world and people in it. They are designed for those with moderate to severe addictions.

  They offer both individual and group counseling. The goal of these counseling sessions is to teach relapse prevention, educate the alcoholic about alcoholism, and find out what an addict's personal triggers are for her addiction and how she can combat those triggers.

  The average stay in a rehab center is between 45 and 90 days. Upon completion, the counselors usually set the recovering addict up in an after care program which offers ongoing support once he has encountered the temptations of the outside world again.

Outpatient Alcohol Rehabilitation

• This treatment is a great option for those who are the head of their households and may have work or school. These addicts generally attend sessions throughout the day and are home during the evening. This is for those who have reached a level of non-life threatening addiction, or who have completed a program through a rehabilitation center. It provides ongoing support through individual and group counseling and is a great means of support, especially when the recovering alcoholic may have days of weakness.