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Rehabilitation Treatments for Alcohol

Alcoholism is defined as a chronic disease where the body becomes dependent on alcohol. As a tolerance develops, alcoholics often need to drink more and more for the same effect. Alcoholics typically have a strong need to drink and cannot limit themselves. They also may drink in secrecy. Withdrawal pains can occur when attempting to stop drinking, but there is help available.

  1. Residential

    • There are facilities across the nation for treatment of alcoholism and alcohol abuse. MayoClinic.com says these programs typically include individual and group therapy, family involvement and educational programs. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services provides a searchable directory of facilities and treatment programs. These include inpatient and outpatient programs plus residential treatment facilities. Drug and Alcohol Rehab Services also provides no-cost referrals to treatment centers and facilities throughout the U.S.

    Detoxification

    • Detoxification typically takes four to seven days and includes withdrawal symptoms such as confusion, hallucinations and shaking. Treatment should be administered at an inpatient facility. The University of Maryland Medical Center indicates that tranquilizers such as Valium, Serax and Librium, or anticonvulsants such as Depakote, Dilantin or Neurontin may be administered to help with withdrawal symptoms.

    Medications

    • Several types of medication may be used to prevent an individual from drinking. Disulfiram, known as Antabuse, is an alcohol-sensitizing drug. Drinking while taking this drug results in symptoms such as flushing, headaches, nausea and vomiting. Naltrexone reduces the desire to drink by blocking the good feelings brought about by alcohol. In addition to oral doses, the drug also may be given by a monthly injection. Acamprosate helps reduce the cravings for alcohol.

    Counseling / Support

    • Counseling and support are critical to recovery. Recovering alcoholics can experience anxiety and depression and it's important to address these issues. MayoClinic.com notes that counseling also can provide behavior modification techniques and help you set goals. Support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous can be helpful in preventing relapses. Al-Anon is available for individuals who are close to someone suffering from or recovering from alcoholism. Alateen is designed for children of alcoholics.

    Alternatives

    • Alternative treatments and techniques for alcoholism include yoga, acupuncture, meditation and spiritual practices. UMMC mentions the use of herbs to treat alcoholism. For example, Kudzu may reduce alcohol cravings and dandelion may alleviate withdrawal symptoms. However, herbs should not be taken without consulting a health professional.

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