Alcohol use disorder is a medical condition characterized by the inability to control frequent or heavy alcohol use even though it causes problems, such as emotional distress or physical harm to the individual or others. Fortunately, it is a treatable condition, and usually, a combination of medications, behavioral therapy, and ongoing support could help a person recover from this alcohol use disorder.
Let’s talk more about the most effective treatments for alcohol use disorder and where you can go in Danville, Martinsville, and Richmond, Virginia, for effective treatment.
According to reports, alcohol use disorder affects about 14.5 million Americans aged 12 years or older. It can cause significant damage to the health, such as liver problems, and increase the risk of dementia and some cancers. It can also affect many other areas of life, such as personal relationships, work, and finances. Alcohol use disorder involves a pattern of alcohol use that can include:
- Problems controlling alcohol consumption
- Continuing to use alcohol even when it has negative consequences
- Having to use more alcohol to get the same effect
- Being preoccupied with alcohol
- Having withdrawal symptoms when stopping/reducing drinking
If the pattern of drinking results in repeated episodes of distress and problems functioning in day-to-day life, it can indicate alcohol use disorder. The condition can range from mild to severe, but even a mild disorder can escalate and lead to serious problems. Therefore, early treatment and intervention are key to preventing the condition from worsening.
Treatment of Alcohol Use Disorder
The primary goal of treatment is to stop the use of alcohol and improve the overall quality of life. The most effective treatments for alcohol use disorder can include:
Medication
Several oral or injectable medications have been approved for treating alcohol use disorder. Some medications can reduce obsessive thinking around alcohol and remove the compulsion to drink. Other medications can decrease cravings.
Psychological counseling
Counseling and therapy on an individual, family, or group basis could be an effective treatment for alcohol use disorder. It provides insights into the reasons behind problematic alcohol use and to deal with any past trauma or specific issues that may have contributed to alcohol use. Family therapy and good family support are crucial in the recovery process.
Psychiatric services
Alcohol use disorder often co-occurs with other mental health disorders, such as depression or anxiety. Therefore, to treat alcohol use disorder effectively, any underlying mental health conditions need to be addressed and treated first. Treatment may include medication, psychotherapy (talk therapy), and other treatments.
Outpatient programs
Outpatient-based programs, such as Addiction Recovery and Treatment Services (ARTS), utilize evidence-based interventions emphasizing on wellness, recovery, and resiliency. The ARTS program focuses on several different areas, such as reducing moderate to severe alcohol/substance use, increasing knowledge of substances and their effects, introducing coping skills (to reduce usage) and relapse prevention and improving links with local community resources to effectively coordinate care.
The ARTS program may include individual, family, and group counseling and support from professionals, such as psychiatrists and psychologists. It may also involve other specific interventions, such as psychoeducation (regarding alcohol/substance use disorders), anger management, and intensive therapy to address any co-occurring mental health disorders.
Detox and withdrawal
A program of detoxification and withdrawal (that is medically managed) is carried out at an inpatient treatment center or a hospital.
Residential treatment programs
For significant alcohol use, a residential treatment program may be recommended. This can help individuals detox from alcohol, learn coping strategies and relapse prevention, and other skills help them recover successfully. These facilities have access to various specialists, including alcohol and drug counselors, therapists, doctors, nurses, social workers, and other professionals.
Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment near me, in Danville, Martinsville, and Richmond, Virginia
If you are concerned about your alcohol use, contact the highly qualified and compassionate team of providers at EPIC Health Partners LLC. We provide clinic-based and community-based services for adults and children with behavioral, mental health, or substance misuse issues.
Our primary goal is to deliver therapeutic interventions using evidence-based practices for affected individuals. We will assess your personal needs and provide a course treatment designed to help you lead a productive and rewarding life.
To know more about our services, including our Addiction Recovery and Treatment Services (ARTS) program, contact EPIC Health Partners today at (434) 835-4601 or use our convenient and secure Request an Appointment online form.
