Though alcohol was once prohibited in America, it has since become a widely accessible, legal substance for consumption by individuals over the age of twenty-one, and further has become integral to American culture.
The 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) estimated 86.3 percent of the American population (over the age of eighteen) to have had at least one drink in their lifetime. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIH) asserts, “Alcohol interferes with the brain’s communication pathways, and can affect the way the brain looks and works.” Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant and works by slowing down vital functions in one’s body. The feelings elicited when an individual ingests alcohol occurs because of the way the substance interacts with one’s neurotransmitters.
Where To Start
Alcohol use disorder (AUD), also known as alcoholism, is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, (DSM-5), as a chronic brain disorder. According to the Mayo Clinic, alcoholism is a “pattern of alcohol use that involves problems controlling your drinking, being preoccupied with alcohol, continuing to use alcohol even when it causes problems, having to drink more to get the same effect, or having withdrawal symptoms when you rapidly decrease or stop drinking.” There are a variety of treatment options available for individuals struggling with alcohol abuse. Below are some suggestions that may help you find an alcohol rehab clinic that best suits your nuanced recovery needs:
- Tap into your network: word of mouth can be an excellent resource, ask friends, family, your primary care doctor, or even a hospital if they can offer any recommendations for a reputable alcohol rehab clinic.
- Search the Internet: An Internet search can provide you with certain websites that have compiled lists of accredited substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment programs, such as Psychology Today.
- Know what it costs: though the costs and fees associated with attending a rehab clinic vary, attendees are often responsible for paying for treatment, so it is important to be aware of your financial obligation.
- Pick the program format that is best for you: rehab programs can be structured as either inpatient treatment facilities or outpatient treatment clinics. Individuals that are unable to reside away from home for the duration of the treatment program will benefit from outpatient treatment, conversely, people that are able to reside away from home for treatment may benefit from inpatient treatment.
Every individual is different and will require a somewhat tailored treatment plan when it comes to recovering from alcoholism.
Further Information and Support
Navigating the challenges that arise from living with mental illness, struggling with substance abuse, and/ or addiction can not only be all-consuming but are often impossible to effectively handle without proper support. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding mental illness, substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. Bear in mind that you do not have to be on this journey alone. At {Upwell Advisors}, we offer unique, customized concierge therapeutic services to provide our clients with unparalleled support throughout every step of the recovery process.
Feel free to reach to contact us anytime via email at [email protected] We look forward to supporting you on your journey.
