Signs that it May Be Time to Consider Rehabilitation
Alcoholism, alcohol use disorder (AUD), happens when an individual is no longer in control of their alcohol use—drinking compulsively and excessively, while potentially experiencing distressing emotions when they aren’t drinking. Alcoholism is one of the largest public health issues plaguing the United States, affecting more than 15 million Americans over the age of 18.
With such shockingly high statistics, it is important to understand the warning signs that you may be living with alcohol addiction and what can be done to get you on the path to recovery. If various areas of your life are suffering as a result of your drinking habits, it may be time to consider treatment.
Signs of Alcohol Addiction
Drinking Excessively on a Regular Basis
Although it is relatively common for people to drink in moderation in social settings or with dinner, they typically have a maximum of two drinks on a given day. Others may find themselves binge-drinking—which entails drinking 5 or more drinks on a given day and reaching a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of 0.08% or more.
While this may happen occasionally during parties or celebrations, if you find yourself binge-drinking frequently, you may have a drinking problem.
Building a High Tolerance
Tolerance happens when you no longer get the same effects from alcohol you once had when you first started using it. Eventually, it takes more and more alcohol for you to get the effects it previously gave you.
If you notice you can drink more than you did before without feeling a buzz or getting drunk, you may be experiencing the beginning effects of an alcohol problem.
Problems with Personal Relationships
Oftentimes those struggling with substance abuse find it difficult to maintain important personal relationships. Because many people who are dealing with addiction are also struggling with their mental health, they may find themselves withdrawing from loved ones.
Experiencing Withdrawal Symptoms After Periods of Not Drinking
Many people don’t realize they’re living with addiction until they go without drinking alcohol. If you experience tremors or seizures that may last for anywhere from a few days to several weeks after you stop drinking, you are probably experiencing the effects of withdrawal.
How Alcohol Abuse Affects Your Body
Increase Strain on Your Heart
Studies have found that alcohol abuse increases the risk of having a heart attack. This is because drinking large amounts of alcohol causes extensive damage to your heart muscle and the rest of the cardiovascular system.
Disruption of the Immune System
When you drink excessively, it can disrupt and destroy the microorganisms that live in your digestive system that are there to support your immune system. Large amounts of alcohol also have the potential to kill off the good bacteria that live in your gastrointestinal tract that help to fight off infection. Drinking large amounts of alcohol regularly can also cause an overgrowth of harmful bacteria, leaving you more susceptible to bacterial infections.
Damage to the Liver
When you drink excessively, you are at a significantly increased risk for developing liver disease, including:
- Fatty liver
- Alcoholic hepatitis
- Alcohol-related cirrhosis
Treatment Options Available at North Georgia Recovery Center
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Our partial hospitalization program (PHP) does not require overnight hospital stays and serves as a happy medium between a residential treatment program and outpatient aftercare. PHP is most suitable for those who are just starting the rehabilitation process.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Intensive outpatient program (IOP) provides those struggling with alcoholism the structure and guidance they need without an extended hospital stay throughout your treatment process. This is an appropriate treatment option for those who feel that they would benefit from a combination of private therapy sessions, group activities, education, as well as periodic visits with a doctor.
Individual Therapy
Individual therapy can be helpful throughout addiction treatment in addition to any other program you may choose. Our team of experienced and compassionate licensed therapists will develop a treatment plan unique to you and your needs as you navigate the path toward recovery and wellness.
Family therapy
Our family therapy program involves the various components of talk therapy, thought exercises, and other methods to support our patients and their daily lives as they work toward recovery. By allowing our patients’ loved ones to rally around them, they are able to feel the love and support they need to keep going.
Outpatient Group (Aftercare)
After treatment, it’s normal and recommended to continue to seek support. Our outpatient group therapy sessions are available to provide you with a positive and supportive environment.
Seeking Help at North Georgia Recovery Center
The road to recovery starts with taking the first step. Let us walk alongside you on the path to sobriety and wellness. When you choose to get alcohol addiction treatment at North Georgia Recovery Center, you can rest assured knowing that you will be treated by licensed therapists in our state-of-the-art facilities. Every one of our team members is certified to address and effectively treat the issues that come along with addiction.
To schedule your free consultation with our team, call (678) 940-7873 or contact us online today.
