ALCOHOL

What Is Alcohol Use Disorder?

When someone drinks alcohol excessively, they may be diagnosed with alcohol use disorder (AUD), a chronic and recurring brain disease. Alcohol use disorder is characterized by compulsive alcohol use, an inability to control drinking, and negative emotional symptoms when not using alcohol.

It is estimated that over 16 million people in the United States have alcohol use disorder, including both adults and adolescents. At Achieve Whole Recovery, alcohol addiction treatment in Colorado is available to address this issue, offering specialized care in Denver, Westminster, and Colorado Springs.

How Alcohol Use Disorder Is Diagnosed

To diagnose alcohol use disorder, individuals must meet at least two of the 11 criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) within a 12-month period. The severity of the condition ranges from mild to severe depending on how many criteria are met.

If you are wondering how to know if you have a drinking problem, these criteria help professionals assess whether alcohol use has become harmful or difficult to control. Although many individuals with AUD can benefit from treatment, less than 10% receive the help they need.

At Achieve Whole Recovery, treatment plans are tailored to each individual and may include a combination of medical support and therapy to improve long-term outcomes.

Behavioral Therapy and Counseling for Alcoholism

Behavioral treatments, also known as alcohol counseling, involve working with a health professional to identify and change behaviors that lead to heavy drinking. These alcohol dependence treatments typically involve developing skills to stop or reduce drinking, building a support system, setting achievable goals, and coping with or avoiding triggers that could lead to relapse.

Common therapy methods include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Motivational Enhancement Therapy
• Marital and Family Counseling
• Brief Interventions

The goal of these alcohol addiction treatments is to change thought processes, build motivation, improve family relationships, and provide personalized feedback to help individuals make a change. Ultimately, the most important aspect of alcohol dependence treatment is to avoid confrontation, incorporate empathy and motivational support, and focus on changing drinking behavior, which is a cornerstone of alcohol addiction recovery.

Medications for Alcohol Dependence Treatment

Certain medications have been found to be effective in helping individuals reduce or stop drinking and prevent relapse, an integral aspect of alcohol addiction treatments. The FDA has approved three medications to treat alcohol dependence, but more are being tested to determine their effectiveness. There are three medications approved by the FDA to treat alcohol dependence:

Naltrexone – Helps to reduce the craving for alcohol and can be taken daily orally or monthly by injection.
Acamprosate – Good for those with a significant family history of Alcohol Use Disorder by decreasing cravings and making it easier to maintain abstinence.
Disulfiram – Works by blocking the breakdown of alcohol in the body, which leads to unpleasant symptoms like nausea and flushing of the skin.

This can help some people to avoid drinking while taking the medication. It is important to note that not all people will respond to medications, but they can be a helpful tool for some individuals. Medications for alcohol dependence are non-addictive and are designed to manage a chronic disease, similar to drugs used to treat other medical conditions Achieve Whole Recovery offers comprehensive alcohol addiction treatment in Colorado, including these FDA-approved medications as part of their tailored treatment plans.

Start Alcohol Addiction Treatment Today

Learn more about our medication-assisted treatment (MAT), addiction therapy, and psychiatry for alcohol use disorder recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of alcohol addiction?

The signs of alcohol addiction often develop gradually and can affect behavior, emotions, and daily functioning. Common indicators include strong cravings for alcohol, difficulty limiting how much you drink, and continuing to drink even when it causes problems at work, in relationships, or with your health. People may begin prioritizing alcohol over responsibilities or activities they once enjoyed. Over time, they may also build a tolerance, needing more alcohol to feel the same effects. Recognizing these patterns early can make it easier to seek help and prevent the condition from worsening.

What are the physical signs of alcoholism?

Physical signs of alcoholism can vary depending on how long and how heavily someone has been drinking. Early signs may include fatigue, poor sleep, changes in appetite, and frequent headaches. As alcohol use increases, individuals may develop tremors, sweating, nausea, or noticeable weight changes. In more advanced stages, signs can include coordination issues, slowed reflexes, and visible health concerns such as skin changes or frequent illness. Long-term alcohol use can also affect major organs like the liver and heart, leading to more serious medical conditions. These physical symptoms are often accompanied by behavioral and emotional changes.

What are alcohol withdrawal symptoms?

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms occur when someone who has been drinking heavily suddenly reduces or stops alcohol use. These symptoms can include anxiety, irritability, sweating, nausea, tremors, and difficulty sleeping. In some cases, individuals may also experience increased heart rate, headaches, or mood changes. More severe withdrawal can involve confusion, hallucinations, or seizures, which require immediate medical attention. Symptoms can vary based on how long and how much a person has been drinking, which is why medical supervision is often recommended.

How long does alcohol withdrawal last?

Alcohol withdrawal typically begins within 6 to 12 hours after the last drink and can progress over the next several days. Symptoms often peak within 24 to 72 hours, which is when individuals may feel the most discomfort. For many people, the most intense physical symptoms improve within 3 to 5 days. However, some individuals may experience lingering effects such as sleep disturbances, anxiety, or cravings for weeks. The timeline can vary depending on individual health, drinking history, and whether medical support is used during detox.

Is alcohol withdrawal dangerous?

Yes, alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous, especially for individuals who have been drinking heavily for a long period of time. In severe cases, withdrawal can lead to seizures or a condition known as delirium tremens (DTs), which involves confusion, rapid heart rate, fever, and hallucinations. DTs can be life-threatening without medical care. Because of these risks, it is strongly recommended that individuals seek professional guidance when stopping alcohol use. Medical detox programs can help manage symptoms safely and reduce the risk of complications.

What are the signs of alcohol poisoning?

Alcohol poisoning is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition caused by consuming large amounts of alcohol in a short period of time. Warning signs include confusion, vomiting, seizures, slow or irregular breathing, and pale or bluish skin. A person may also become unconscious and be difficult or impossible to wake. Because alcohol continues to affect the body even after someone stops drinking, symptoms can worsen over time. Alcohol poisoning is a medical emergency, and immediate help should be sought if it is suspected.

How to stop drinking alcohol safely?

Stopping alcohol use safely depends on how much and how often someone has been drinking. For individuals with mild to moderate use, reducing intake gradually and building support systems may be effective. However, for those with heavy or long-term use, medical supervision is often necessary to manage withdrawal symptoms safely. Treatment programs can provide structured support, including therapy, medication, and monitoring. Seeking professional help reduces the risk of complications and improves the chances of long-term success.

How long does alcohol recovery take?

Alcohol recovery is a process that varies from person to person. Some individuals may begin to feel physical improvements within a few weeks, while emotional and behavioral changes may take longer. Long-term recovery often involves ongoing support, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments. Many people continue to work on their recovery for months or even years as they build healthier habits and coping strategies. The timeline depends on factors such as the severity of alcohol use, overall health, and the level of support received during treatment.