Alcohol Abuse Advice

Treating Alcoholism

Alcoholism is a disorder that has made million of individuals dependent on alcohol.  It starts with the feel-good effect after losing your inhibitions to alcohol, then next thing you know, one is addicted to this surreal state of euphoria.  Alcoholism should stop for its obvious effects to the body.  Yes, it can be treated.  No one ever said it was easy, but it can be done.

Fundamental to the treatment of alcoholism is managing the body’s withdrawal from this substance abuse.  Since this is a feat not meant for overnight success, small changes can make a big difference in reducing your chances of having alcohol-related problems.  Here are some strategies to try:

Getting help:  It starts by admitting you have a problem and you need help.  Talk to someone about it, be it a family member or a friend.  You shouldn’t be alone with this because then it will be easier to slip back to depression when you do not have a support system.  There are organizations that specially facilitate alcoholism therapies.

Talk to an expert:  An expert can be a doctor or a counselor.  He or she may be able to give you sound advice about treatments.  There might be a prescription medicine that will work for you.  Check your local health department or social services agencies as they are likely to offer help.  They have resources to trained counselors who know about alcoholism and support groups with similar problems.

Cut back:  In severe cases, complete withdrawal can do more harm than good.  Most experts’ advice is to gradually allow the body to retreat from alcohol.  Cutting back on alcohol intake is the first step on quitting drinking.  Keep track of your alcohol intake:  quantity and frequency.  Then set a goal of slowly reducing your intakes.  Pace yourself when you drink and never drink with an empty stomach.  Alcohol is slowly absorbed by your system when you have had something to eat.

Plan ahead:  Don’t let your mind remain idle.  Develop interests that don’t involve alcohol like a new hobby or sports.   Avoid people, places, and occasions that will obviously serve alcohol and may trigger your drinking.  Learn to say “no, thanks” when you’re offered an alcoholic drink.  And should the inevitable happen, always have an intervention plan on what you will do if you have an urge to drink.

Remember that it is important to stay healthy for the fun things in life:  birth of a child, a long awaited trip or a holiday party.  While alcoholics can be a nuisance, they are actually crying for help.  They are our friends and loved ones who got lost in the path.  Treatment is available, so consider one you miss out on the best things in life.