How Alcohol Addiction Develops
Alcohol addiction occurs when someone regularly drinks to excess despite the negative consequences that result from their drinking. Over time, the individual will develop a tolerance to alcohol, which means they will need to drink more and more in order to feel the same effects. This can lead to physical dependence, which occurs when the body becomes so used to having alcohol that it cannot function properly without it. At this point, quitting drinking cold turkey can be extremely dangerous and even life-threatening. That’s why professional treatment is often necessary for those who want to recover from alcohol addiction. Signs of alcohol addiction include:- Drinking more alcohol than intended or for longer periods of time than intended
- Being unable to control or limit drinking
- Experiencing cravings or a strong urge to drink
- Continuing to drink despite negative consequences, such as job loss, financial problems, or relationship difficulties
- Needing to drink in order to feel normal
- Feeling unable to cope with or manage stress without drinking
- Prioritizing drinking alcohol over other responsibilities and activities
The Differences Between Inpatient and Outpatient Treatment
There are two main types of treatment for alcohol addiction: inpatient and outpatient. Inpatient treatment requires the individual to live at the treatment facility for the duration of their program, which is typically 30 days. Outpatient treatment, on the other hand, allows the individual to live at home while attending treatments at a facility or through a program like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Inpatient treatment is often recommended for those who have been struggling with alcohol addiction for an extended period of time or for those who have relapsed after trying outpatient treatment. This is because inpatient treatment provides around-the-clock care and supervision in a safe and structured environment. This can be beneficial for those who need more support during early recovery.The Benefits of Inpatient Treatment for Alcohol Addiction
There are many benefits of inpatient treatment for alcohol addiction, including:- 24/7 access to care: Inpatient treatment provides around-the-clock care and supervision, which can be beneficial for those who need more support during early recovery.
- A safe and structured environment: Inpatient rehab programs provide a safe and structured environment that can help individuals stay focused on their recovery.
- Individualized care: Inpatient rehab programs offer individualized care based on each person’s unique needs and goals.
- Evidence-based therapies: Inpatient rehab programs offer evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), that have been proven to be effective in treating addiction.