Ten million Americans suffer from alcoholism, but many people still wrongly believe that this affliction is a moral failing. The stigma surrounding addiction to alcohol has resulted in a pervasive belief that this disease can be overcome by psychotherapy or willpower alone. This is not the case. Fortunately, proven alcohol treatment is available in Seattle and beyond.
Myths and Realities of Alcoholism
Before addressing alcoholism, we must separate fiction from fact. Dr. James R. Milam and Katherine Ketcham have written a guide on this subject, titled Under the Influence: A Guide to the Myths and Realities of Alcoholism. Below are a few of the main points from the text.
First, it is important to understand that alcohol does not have the same chemical and physiological effects on everyone who drinks. The truth is that alcohol, like any other food or drink we take into our bodies, affects different people in different ways. For example, this selectively addictive drug may be tolerated by some, while others (like those who have genetic predispositions to alcoholism) are significantly affected. Many responsible drinkers eventually become alcoholics; this is because the nature of the disease is that it catalyzes irresponsible drinking.
Next, many people believe that their friends or family members become alcoholics due to psychological or emotional problems that they seek to relieve by drinking. In reality, alcoholics have the same problems as everyone else before they start drinking, and these issues are aggravated by their addiction to alcohol. This unhealthy level of alcohol consumption serves as a maladaptive coping mechanism that weakens their ability to function in daily life. Alcoholics should receive psychological care and support after their initial alcohol treatment.
Finally, we must agree upon a shared definition of alcoholism. It is a chronic, primary, hereditary disease which progresses from an early susceptibility into an addiction. This addiction is characterized by the development of tolerance, physiological dependence, and loss of control over one’s drinking.
Now that we have discussed the facts about alcoholism, we can begin to make recommendations regarding its treatment and resolution.
How to Help an Alcoholic
Realizing that someone you love has a drinking problem can be disorienting and frightening. You may not know what to do or where to start. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to begin helping your loved one to overcome alcoholism.
The first step is to educate yourself on the subject of addiction. When a person is struggling with alcoholism, they may lie to themselves or others about the extent of their drinking. If you aren’t informed about the signs and symptoms of this disease, you may not know what to say or how to tell when things have gotten out of control. Visit government websites like the one provided by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism to access educational resources and training.
Next, you should practice what you’re going to say to your loved one. These conversations can become emotional, so do your best to avoid accusatory statements and absolutes. Instead, use “I” statements to illustrate instances of specific concern when their drinking affected you negatively. Consider gathering a group of family members or friends who could provide input on this discussion. Ultimately, you should all be prepared to listen and offer support.
The goal of any intervention is to compel your loved one to seek alcohol treatment. Be sure you have researched centers and contacted them to learn whether beds are available. You can even call the treatment center beforehand and determine whether they take your insurance. Be prepared to immediately take your loved one to your center of choice after they agree to seek treatment.
What is Alcohol Treatment?
Overcoming alcoholism is a process with several discrete stages. Frequently, treatment will begin with withdrawal management, often referred to as detoxification or detox. During this time, medical professionals will oversee the patient and prescribe medications to manage uncomfortable and dangerous withdrawal symptoms. Once all traces of alcohol have been removed from a person’s system, they can begin to focus on the internal work required for other forms of treatment, like therapy.
After withdrawal management has concluded, residential alcohol treatment begins. “Residential” or “inpatient” levels of care take place in structured, homelike environments. When participating in residential programming, individuals will remain on campus for various lengths of time, most frequently 30, 60, or 90 days. This approach is ideal for those with severe addictions to alcohol, or for those whose home lives are turbulent. During residential alcohol treatment, patients have access to individual and group therapy sessions, along with family programming and 24/7 support from staff members.
Once an individual has completed residential treatment, they have addressed many of the core issues that contributed to their addiction. They have also learned several healthy coping mechanisms to help them to deal with life on life’s terms. At this point, there are several step-down levels of care to choose from. Outpatient programming, aftercare services, and therapy sessions are available for those who have left a residential program. Additionally, it is important to participate in regular group meetings through Alcoholics Anonymous. This allows each person to build a sober support network to prepare for their new life in recovery. With dedication and effort, alcoholism can be overcome.
Alcohol Treatment in Seattle
Lakeside-Milam has provided proven alcohol treatment in Seattle and Western Washington for more than 35 years. If you or a loved one are dealing with an alcohol use disorder, there is hope. Addiction, like many diseases, can be successfully managed through evidence-based care. Contact us today to learn more about Washington’s premier drug and alcohol recovery centers.
