In order to deal with a person's drinking problem, they should undergo treatment. While there are many treatment centers offering in-patient services, there are also many outpatient centers. These centers provide a safe environment for alcoholics to explore their destructive behaviors. They may also have access to programs like anonymous group meetings. While outpatient programs are not supervised, it is still recommended to have a strong support system outside of treatment.
Signs of alcoholism
The first of the many alcoholism and addiction warning signs is the inability to control a drinker's behavior. These people often rationalize their behavior, such as skipping a class or a commitment, or drinking alcohol in order to avoid judgment or interference from other people. The person may even acknowledge their powerlessness over alcohol. A person may become reclusive or tremble when they try to stop drinking.
Several other causes of excessive alcohol consumption include stress, bereavement, and difficulties at work. Alcohol consumption can lead to a depressive personality, low self-esteem, and a sense of low social status. Alcoholism is caused by genetic and environmental factors, which scientists classify into three groups: social, psychological, and biological. Generally, there is no single reason that leads to alcoholism, but different factors contribute to the development of this problem.
Treatment options
There are several different types of treatment for alcoholism and alcohol abuse, but many people assume that they only have two choices: residential rehab centers and outpatient programs. These programs provide up-to-date and science-based therapies. They can range in intensity and location, and many offer outpatient treatment that allows patients to maintain a regular schedule and privacy. Alcohol treatment professionals can help people overcome their addiction by using non-addictive medications and licensed therapists.
Psychotherapy is a form of therapy that can help a patient control cravings and cope with the effects of alcoholism and addiction. Sessions can last from a few weeks to several months. The psychologist and patient develop a relationship based on trust and open communication. Psychotherapy is also a valuable part of addressing co-occurring mental health issues and can be very effective for helping people get back on the right track.
Costs
The cost of drinking heavily can affect your wallet in many ways. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Americans spent $249 billion on alcohol in 2010, or $807 per person. Heavy drinkers and binge drinkers consume more than twice that amount each day. This can lead to numerous health problems, including impaired driving. In addition to personal costs, alcohol also impacts society. Alcohol is costly for society and our economy.
This report estimates the costs of nonfatal injuries and diseases caused by alcohol. It also estimates productivity losses associated with DUI convictions, including loss of driving privileges, increased insurance costs, and increased insurance premiums. These estimates do not include the economic costs associated with family care and decreased presenteeism. Alcohol is associated with many tragic outcomes, including car crashes and drownings, as well as deaths. Alcoholism costs society billions because of the increased risk of violence, drunk driving, and traffic crashes.
Genetic factors
Although the exact genes that cause or prevent addiction are still unknown, some studies suggest that there are several genetic factors that are linked to substance abuse and addiction. Interestingly, the genetic factors that lead to alcoholism are not the same for everyone. While it is still unclear which genes are responsible for alcoholism and addiction, these findings point to an underlying link between mental health and alcoholism. For example, people with a family history of schizophrenia or clinical depression are more likely to develop alcohol addiction.
During a Human Genome Project, scientists were able to identify the genes associated with the disorder in American families. This information allowed researchers to identify which Americans had the highest risk of developing alcohol use disorder. Although alcohol abuse runs in families, the genetic basis of alcoholism has not been established until recently. However, the Human Genome Project helped identify every gene in human DNA. Now, scientists are able to find out who is at greatest risk for alcohol abuse.
Effects on relationships
Alcoholism and alcohol abuse affects family members in more ways than one. It can cause significant relationship disruption, including dishonesty, emotional repression, and strained relationships. Alcohol-addicted people are also more prone to codependency, a condition whereby a person's self-esteem and emotional needs are dependent on the other person. It is no surprise that marriages with heavy alcohol consumption are at higher risk of divorce.
The financial problems that are caused by alcohol addiction are a significant strain on relationships. The person suffering from alcoholism may avoid social functions, citing various reasons, such as the need to spend more money on alcohol. It is also more likely to be involved in reckless and criminal behavior, putting a strain on his or her relationship with family members. The alcoholic may also have trouble relating to family members who do not drink alcohol. If the alcoholic is a parent, the responsibilities for the family and children may be passed on to the other parent.
