Alcohol-related use disorders (AUD) is a medical condition that is characterized by the inability to end or manage alcohol consumption despite the negative effects it can have on your job, family and other areas within your daily life. ¹ AUD is not a moral lapse or weakness. Instead, it is an ongoing brain disorder that may worsen in time if not treated.

AUD is a problem that affects 14.1 million adults across the United States and the risk of developing an AUD will depend on many factors. Some cases are due to an influence from genetics while others are triggered by exposure to environmental factors (such for injuries). ²

It is often difficult to tell when a casual drink is turning into addiction or abuse. It is even more difficult to determine if it's the right time to act on it. The following information will assist you in understanding the concept of alcoholismor AUD, terms that were used historically to refer to a variety of alcohol dependence, alcohol dependence, and alcohol dependence. ¹ If you believe that your loved ones or you care about might be suffering from an AUD this guide can provide you with some clues to recognize a potential AUD. We will also help you stay informed of what kinds of treatment options are available to individuals suffering from an AUD.

Signs of Alcoholism & Alcohol Withdrawal

It is not uncommon to have concerns or questions in determining whether you or someone you care about has an alcohol problem. Knowing more about both the physical and mental symptoms of alcoholism, also known as AUD, can help you resolve a variety of issues.

Here are some of the most common indicators and signs to look out for in determining whether drinking might be a sign of alcoholism. If you can answer "yes" to at least 2 of these patterns in behavior in the past 12 months, then an alcohol-related disorder could be the reason: ²

• Have you drank alcohol in greater quantities over a longer time.
• Have tried cutting back or stop drinking alcohol but with no having any success.
• Are you experiencing cravings or an overwhelming desire to drink or alcohol.
• You spent more time drinking alcohol, or recuperating from drinking.
• Inability to fulfill the requirements at school, at work or at home due to drinking alcohol.
• Be less active in workplace, social, or leisure activities due to drinking alcohol.
• Consistently drinking alcohol in situations where it poses physical danger.
• Persistent drinking even when you recognize that you suffer from mental or physical problems which are likely to be caused or exacerbated due to alcohol.
• Have developed a tolerance to alcohol. This could be due to the fact that you need more alcohol in order to get the same result or by noting you drink the exact amount previously does not affect you in the same manner like it did prior to.
• Show signs of withdrawal when excessive or prolonged use of alcohol is cut off or decreased.

In heavy drinkers and/or regular drinkers, withdrawal symptoms from alcohol generally manifest for a period of just a few days after the alcohol consumption has diminished or stopped. These symptoms and signs are: ²

Though only a physician is able to determine if you have an undiagnosed AUD. If you notice any of these warning signs in your conduct it could be a sign that it's the time to seek out professional assistance to diagnose an AUD.

"Do I Need Rehab?" Quiz

You can take our 5-minute, free self-assessment for alcohol dependence below if you believe either you or someone else you care about might be suffering from addiction abuse. The assessment consists of eleven one-to-one questions which are designed to serve as a tool for information to evaluate the degree of severity and the likelihood of having an alcohol-related disorder. The test is completely free, secure and no personal data is required to get the results. It is a "Do I Need Rehab?" test is not intended to identify an alcohol dependence disorder.

Begin Assessment

Disclaimer: Only a medical or clinical professional is able to determine if a person is suffering from a substance abuse disorder. The test may be an indicator of the possibility of addiction, but is not a substitute for the diagnosis of a qualified medical professional or treatment specialist.

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Social Consequences of Alcoholism

Alcohol consumption can cause problems that affect many aspects of one's life. When drinking increases one may start to cut off from their loved ones to drink. They could often call in sick for attend work, or stay clear of social gatherings. They may be issued the licenses for drunk driving and drinking, which makes it difficult to fulfill obligations at home or at work. ^2,3 And even though many who suffer from drinking disorders remain within their households and perform in some way in their work and work, alcoholism rates are quite high among homeless people and homeless, which could indicate a decrease in occupational and social functioning in this particular group. ²

Types of Alcohol Rehab Programs

The process of finding the best program for your loved one or you starts by knowing the options readily available. If you are in need of treatment for AUD There are a variety of kinds that offer alcohol fancy luxury alcohol rehabs programs with various levels of intensity throughout the country that could be of assistance. In the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) provides the following components and setting for rehabilitation with alcohol: ⁴

• detoxification: Many alcohol rehab programs start with detoxification as well as medically controlled withdrawal. This process lets the body rid its system of alcohol that is present in the system, as well as its acute toxic impact. If you're admitted to detox inpatients typically, you will receive 24-hour medical care, in charge of monitoring and managing the symptoms of acute withdrawal that might be present during this time. The administration of medications is based on the need to prevent any complications like seizures.
• Residential/Inpatient Treatment: After successful withdrawal management, you may continue on with additional rehabilitation efforts, which may or may not be in a hospital setting, depending on your treatment needs. These highly intense, 24 hours a day services provide a variety of options. The treatments offered focus on the behavioral and social issues that are related to addiction, helping to make the necessary changes to maintain recovery. While the treatment might only last for a few weeks but it's full of extensive therapeutic interventions, and could at times be based on modified 12-step method. During your stay, will be undergoing therapy and participate in group support for peers, such as Alcoholics Anonymous. After your stay at the hospital and transfer to an outpatient program or other type that offers aftercare. Involvement in this stage of treatment is essential for decreasing the chance of Relapse.
• Offpatient Therapy Outpatient treatment is a type of rehabilitation for alcohol that provides programs of low intensity for those dwelling at home sober environment or in a more conducive location. Treatment for outpatients is typically not always the least expensive of these types of treatment and allows flexibility to people who are employed or attending school or working towards other educational or professional objectives while getting treatment to treat their alcohol-related.

Will Insurance Cover the Cost of Rehab?

In most cases, insurance will cover the majority or all the costs of rehabilitation. The extent to which insurance will cover your rehab is contingent on the specific policy you have and the rehab center you select, the treatment you receive, and other elements.

There are a variety of aspects to consider with regard to protection from insurance, the company can answer these questions. If you decide to enroll in a rehab program, it's crucial to discuss with the admissions team regarding your financial obligations when you receive rehabilitation services.
To find out if your insurance will cover treatments at of our treatment centers, enter your insurance information on the form below.

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How Long is Alcohol Rehab?

Based on the specific needs of your requirements, rehabilitation can be anywhere from several days if you only require detox, up to one month or more for those who require residential or inpatient treatment. Find out more about the duration of rehabilitation courses and whether your insurance will be capable of covering at least part of the cost of treatment:

Steps of the Alcohol Rehab Process

If you decide to seek help and decide to seek out alcohol rehabilitation, it's normal to be anxious and scared particularly if this is your first experience. It's normal to be feeling this way, but don't let your fears or feelings hold you from getting the assistance you require. Here's what you can expect to find when you enter rehabilitation.

A lot of rehabilitation programs begin with an detox facility to detoxify. The process of detoxification lets your body rid itself of alcohol that is in your system. ⁴ This is a crucial time where you must be closely monitored by a medical professional to ensure that you are able to detox safely. The aim is to prevent any dangerous or acute negative side consequences (e.g. seizures, etc.)) in the event of stopping drinking alcohol.

Once you have finished detox, and withdrawal has been managed effectively and you are able to manage it, you can move to a residence for ongoing recovery. Residential treatment provides 24/7 care, usually in a non-hospital environment. The treatment is organized and is focused on helping you comprehend the effects of addiction and to develop the skills required for a long-term sobriety. Some of the skills you will learn include the identification of your triggers which lead the urge to consume alcohol, for example an individual, a place or even an event.

Also, you'll learn how to enable you to manage stressful situations that may can have caused destructive behavior during the previous time. Learning new techniques will assist you in ways that are healthier for you. Even though confronting negative thoughts as well as thoughts of yourself can be difficult sometimes, confronting them can help you gain control over your life and be accountable for your decisions. ⁶Learn more about the process of rehabilitation for alcohol through the stories of recovery from alcohol of real individuals who struggled with addiction to alcohol.

Do you have questions about the treatment options available for addiction to alcohol? Our admissions navigators are on hand 24 hours a day to listen to your concerns and help you get started with the next steps. Call(888) 611-4684 Why do you need to call us?

What Does an Alcohol Treatment Plan Look Like?

AUD treatment program. However, these treatment options depend on a person's particular needs and past which is why treatment plans can differ depending on the individual. Treatment of AUD and reducing the negative effects on your health which can result from it is essential. The use of pharmacotherapeutic and behavioral approaches can be more effective together. Additionally, newer treatments, like ones that use technology for mobile health are beginning to increase access to a variety of treatments. ⁶

Examples of what a possible treatment plan could include are: ⁶

• Professional behavioral assistance (e.g. counseling, group therapy, or specialty therapy).
• FDA-approved drugs (for controlling withdrawal from alcohol and treatment for AUD).
• Support groups for support (e.g., Alcoholics Anonymous).

While there are a variety of well-known, evidence-based components of treatment available for addiction treatment, it's crucial to keep in mind that every patient's treatment plan is unique to the individual.

What Medications May Be Prescribed During Rehab?

Certain people might be benefited by using drugs to combat their AUD or withdrawal symptoms that arise of alcohol dependence. These medications can aid in the process of reducing withdrawal symptoms that occur during the process of detoxification. Other kinds of medications can be prescribed following detoxification to help combat alcohol dependency within a specific program.

Common medicines for treating withdrawal symptoms from alcohol comprise: ⁷

• the benzodiazepines (e.g., Valium, Ativan), which are highly effective in reducing withdrawal symptoms which includes seizures.
• Carbamazepine (Tegretol), gabapentin (Neurontin) or phenobarbital which can be utilized to treat patients who are unable to tolerate the benzodiazepine medication or need more intensive treatment.

If a patient is stable following detox, the physician might prescribe a medication to treat alcohol dependence problem for a long duration. This kind of treatment is sometimes called medicine-assisted therapy (MAT) and could contain other medications that are approved by the FDA listing: ⁸

• Naltrexone (Vivitrol) is an extended-release, injectable drug that is administered once per month. It reduces cravings and blocks some strengthening effects of alcohol when consumed. Naltrexone comes in instant release pill formulations and the once-daily dose reduces cravings and blocks some the positive effects of alcohol.
• Acamprosate (Campral) also comes in pill and is consumed three times per day. It is able to improve mood and decrease restlessness, insomnia, and unease when it comes to the abstinence of alcohol.
• Disulfiram (Antabuse) comes in the form of a pill and is administered once a day. It's an alcohol-deterrent that causes adverse effects like nausea, flushing and palpitations when drinking alcohol.

After Rehab: Aftercare Planning

Usually, your rehabilitation team will begin developing your post-care plan with you as soon when you start rehabilitation. In this way, you'll be ready for your post-rehabilitation life , and for any therapeutic services that you'll require. The therapy sessions are scheduled to assist you maintain your commitment to your recovery after being released from rehabilitation. Your abilities and strengths will decide what you should include in your plan for aftercare.

Aftercare programs provide support during the transition into your new routine. The short-term goals for behavior will probably comprise: ⁴

• Group or individual counseling sessions.
• Continuous education about the subject of addiction as well as recovery.
• The participation in a 12 step plan (going for at most one or two meetings per week).
• Additional support services , such as mental health, medical or employment.

A few people continue their rehabilitation efforts by living in sober living facilities after the end of their treatment. Sober living centers around the environment being healthy, daily habits and routines. Understanding that a good and healthy living environment (e.g. social support or a safe space free of alcohol) can help you stay sober and is essential for those in the process of recovery. ⁹