These are long-term, highly structured residential alcohol rehab programs that typically lasts from 6 to 12 months. They focus on the person as a whole and emphasize long-term goals and recovery.
William Kent Jewell has over 20 years of experience treating AUD and other substance use conditions. He has a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology and is an adjunct professor at the University of Saint Mary and Kansas City Kansas Community College. He is the current Executive Director of Benilde Hall in Kansas City, Mo. Benilde Hall provides substance abuse treatment, mental health treatment, transitional living, and a transitional job program for homeless chemically dependent males all in one facility.
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, people who experience two or more of these red flags may be addicted to alcohol:
If you or a loved one has any of these symptoms, consider contacting an alcohol treatment center or professional for help.
Long-term drinking causes many physical, psychological, and social effects that can be difficult or impossible to reverse. Choosing an alcohol rehab center can quite literally save one’s life. These centers strive to help patients:
All alcohol treatment centers follow the same basic steps:
The specifics of these steps will differ depending on the person and a variety of approaches may be used, including both medical and mental health treatment. The recovery process will place a strong emphasis on external support within the community and family.
There are several approaches rehabs use to treat alcoholism, and the vast majority use a combination of treatments. The following are among the most common.
Medication can be used to either assist in detox or prevent relapse. Currently there are three FDA-approved medications for treating alcohol addiction. Naltrexone blocks both alcohol cravings and the feelings of reward after drinking. Acamprosate (Campral®) is used to combat the symptoms of withdrawal. Disulfiram (Antabuse®) changes how the body breaks down alcohol, producing severe side effects after drinking. Other medications may be used to treat any co-existing mental health conditions.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a famous example of the mutual-support groups known as 12-step programs, which can be helpful both during and after alcohol rehab. These groups are often anonymous and help link those seeking treatment with a sponsor who has experienced recovery. They provide valuable peer support while undergoing treatment.
Alcohol treatment programs vary, especially with respect to the type and duration of care they provide. Which suits one best often depends on his or her needs and circumstances. Some of the most common types of alcohol rehab facilities:
These are long-term, highly structured residential alcohol rehab programs that typically lasts from 6 to 12 months. They focus on the person as a whole and emphasize long-term goals and recovery.
These are long-term, highly structured residential alcohol rehab programs that typically lasts from 6 to 12 months. They focus on the person as a whole and emphasize long-term goals and recovery.
These are long-term, highly structured residential alcohol rehab programs that typically lasts from 6 to 12 months. They focus on the person as a whole and emphasize long-term goals and recovery.
These are long-term, highly structured residential alcohol rehab programs that typically lasts from 6 to 12 months. They focus on the person as a whole and emphasize long-term goals and recovery.
Alcohol treatment outcomes depend on a number of features, including the specific nature of one’s condition, the accessibility of services, and the degree to which they collaborate with treatment providers. Nevertheless, there are certain program characteristics universally linked rehab success despite such variation. The National Institute on Drug Abuse advises anyone considering treatment to ask the following questions when finding an alcohol addiction rehab:
William Kent Jewell has over 20 years of experience treating AUD and other substance use conditions. He has a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology and is an adjunct professor at the University of Saint Mary and Kansas City Kansas Community College. He is the current Executive Director of Benilde Hall in Kansas City, Mo. Benilde Hall provides substance abuse treatment, mental health treatment, transitional living, and a transitional job program for homeless chemically dependent males all in one facility.
Individuals who come to our facility do not require medical detox or they have already had medical detox and are physically stable for treatment. Anyone entering treatment for substance abuse should expect post-acute withdrawal. In early recovery individuals work on behavioral changes and learning about themselves and the “whys” behind their use. During this stage, they will experience intense cravings and begin to learn what their triggers that are drawing them back to their substance of choice. After the early stages, individuals begin to work on their cognitive changes. Real recovery is a life change which will always require maintenance.
We utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) integrated with Motivational Interviewing and Stages of Change.
Themselves.
An individual needs to be evaluated by a professional to determine what level of treatment may be required.
Recovery is a personal journey of healing the mind, body, and soul. It takes work to be able to live a healthy lifestyle free from drugs and alcohol. Individuals should be informed the journey will not be easy, and it will require a hard look at oneself.
Seek professional guidance. Intervention may be required. Most of all, tough love.
Everyone is recovering from something. No one is alone in their journey.
According to MedlinePlus, the amount of time spent in withdrawal can differ from person to person. While minor symptoms can last weeks, the worst portion hits 24 to 72 hours after the last drink.
Endorphins are a neurotransmitter that produce a pleasurable feeling. Research suggests that participating in a fun activity–such as exercise or eating ice cream)–could trigger change in the brain that provides a rush of endorphins. This provides a feeling of happiness that is then associated with the activity. Researchers not that the brains of heavy drinkers are more sensitive to endorphins while drinking, producing an even stronger feeling of pleasure.
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism reports that there are genetic influences in the development of an alcohol addiction, but it is not a guarantee to develop the condition. While having a family history of addiction may raise the risk of developing behavioral problems including addiction, there are ways to prevent it. The NIAAA recommends reducing your risk by drinking in moderation as an adult, avoiding underage drinking, and speaking with a health care provider about your concerns.
Determining if a friend or family member might suffer from an alcohol addiction can be distressing. It’s important to be direct but empathetic with the person. Seek information about AUD and consider having a mental health professional present while addressing your concerns with them. Remember that change will take time and there will be many bumps in the road. Being patient and supportive can make a big difference in the effectiveness of treatment.
Relapse is very common among those in treatment. Overcoming an addiction is a learning process and won’t be without difficult periods. Many clinicians consider relapse a part of treatment as it provides information to the person about what can cause their drinking. Instead of a total failure, it is better seen as a temporary set-back and learning experience.