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Amanda Stevens is a highly respected figure in the field of medical content writing, with a specific focus on eating disorders and addiction treatment. Amanda earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work from Purdue University, graduating Magna Cum Laude, which serves as a strong educational foundation for her contributions.
Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to devastating consequences. Long-term alcohol abuse puts people at risk for serious health issues, including liver disease, heart problems, and certain cancers. What was once called alcoholism is now known as alcohol use disorder, a chronic condition that can destroy relationships, careers, and lives. However, professional treatment and rehabilitation programs offer support and strategies to help those who are struggling to regain control and build healthier lives.
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What is Alcohol?
Alcohol has been consumed by humans for thousands of years, playing various roles in social, cultural, and religious practices across different societies. In the context of beverages, alcohol primarily refers to ethanol or ethyl alcohol, a colorless, volatile liquid produced through the fermentation of sugars by yeast.[1] It is the psychoactive ingredient in drinks such as beer, wine, and spirits.
From a chemical perspective, alcohol is a depressant that affects the central nervous system. When consumed, it is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed throughout the body, influencing brain function and behavior.[2] The effects of alcohol can range from mild relaxation and lowered inhibitions at lower doses to impaired judgment, slowed reflexes, and potential loss of consciousness at higher doses. The severity of these effects depends on factors such as the amount consumed, the individual’s body weight, metabolism, and tolerance level.
Alcohol is one of the most widely consumed psychoactive substances globally, with its production, sale, and consumption regulated to varying degrees across different countries and cultures.[3] While many nations impose age restrictions, limit public intoxication, and control drunk driving through legal measures, alcohol remains readily available in most parts of the world. Its widespread acceptance and integration into social norms often contrast with its potential for abuse and associated health risks, creating complex challenges for public health policies and individual decision-making.
Alcohol Addiction and Abuse
Alcohol is one of the most widely used and abused substances globally, with its consumption deeply ingrained in many cultures. Despite its social acceptance, alcohol can lead to significant addiction and abuse problems for many individuals.
Alcohol is addictive due to its effects on the brain’s reward system. When consumed, it triggers the release of dopamine and endorphins, creating feelings of pleasure and relaxation.[4] Over time, the brain becomes accustomed to these effects, potentially leading to both tolerance and dependence.
Key factors contributing to alcohol’s addictive nature include:
- Positive reinforcement: The initial pleasurable effects encourage continued use.
- Negative reinforcement: Alcohol is often used to alleviate stress or negative emotions.
- Genetic predisposition: Some individuals are more susceptible to alcohol addiction due to their genetic makeup.
- Environmental factors: Social and cultural norms can influence drinking habits and addiction risk.
How alcohol affects the body
Alcohol impacts various body systems:[5]
- Central Nervous System: Alcohol is a depressant, slowing down brain function and altering mood, behavior, and cognitive abilities.
- Liver: The liver metabolizes alcohol, but excessive consumption can lead to fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis.
- Cardiovascular System: While moderate drinking may have some benefits, excessive alcohol use can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
- Digestive System: Alcohol can damage the lining of the stomach and intestines, leading to ulcers and increasing the risk of certain cancers.
- Immune System: Chronic alcohol abuse weakens the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections.
According to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 28.9 million people over the age of 12 in the USexperienced alcohol use disorder in the past year.[6] Globally, approximately 400 million people, or 7 percent of the population aged 15 and older, live with AUD.[7] Alcohol consumption contributed to around 2.6 million deaths worldwide in 2019, with 1.6 million deaths attributed to noncommunicable diseases, 700,000 to injuries, and 300,000 to communicable diseases.
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Is Alcohol Withdrawal Dangerous?
Alcohol withdrawal can be extremely dangerous and even life-threatening in some cases. The severity of withdrawal symptoms depends on factors like how long and how heavily a person has been drinking.
Common alcohol withdrawal symptoms include:[8]
- Anxiety and irritability
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sweating
- Rapid heart rate
- Tremors
- Insomnia
In severe cases, alcohol withdrawal can progress to delirium tremens (DTs), which is a medical emergency. Symptoms of DTs include:[9]
- Severe confusion
- Fever
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Extreme agitation
Due to these risks, it’s crucial that heavy drinkers do not attempt to quit alcohol suddenly without medical supervision. Medically-assisted detox can help manage withdrawal symptoms safely and comfortably. Anyone experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.
What Treatments Are Available for Alcohol Abuse and Addiction?
Access to effective and targeted treatment for alcohol addiction is critical, owing to the severe impact alcohol use disorder can have on overall health. Finding the right treatment approach helps to achieve lasting recovery by addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. Thankfully, Able to Change Recovery offers a comprehensive range of evidence-based and holistic therapies that are uniquely designed to meet a wide array of treatment needs:
- 12-Step Facilitation Therapy: Introduces clients to the principles of 12-step programs, which offer ongoing support and a sense of community for those in recovery.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Assists individuals in identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors, which is particularly effective in developing coping strategies for managing cravings and high-risk situations.
- Contingency Management: Provides tangible rewards for positive behaviors, reinforcing the benefits of sobriety and encouraging continued abstinence.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness to help individuals regulate emotions and improve interpersonal relationships, which can be beneficial for those who use substances to cope with emotional distress.
- Family Therapy: Involves family members in the treatment process to address dynamics that may contribute to or be affected by addiction, fostering a supportive home environment.
- Group Therapy: Provides peer support and the opportunity to learn from others’ experiences, which can reduce feelings of isolation and offer diverse perspectives on recovery.
- Holistic Therapy: Incorporates complementary approaches like nutrition, exercise, and meditation to support overall well-being and balance during recovery.
- Individual Therapy: Offers one-on-one support to address personal challenges and develop individualized strategies for maintaining sobriety.
- Mindfulness-Based Therapies: Teach awareness and acceptance of present-moment experiences, helping individuals manage cravings and prevent relapse through mindfulness practices.
- Motivational Interviewing: Enhances motivation to change by exploring and resolving ambivalence, which is especially useful for those struggling with the decision to quit.
- Trauma-Informed Care: Recognizes the impact of trauma on addiction and integrates this understanding into all aspects of treatment, creating a safe and supportive environment for healing.
Take the first step toward recovery
Frequently Asked Questions About Alcoholism and Treatment
If you find that alcohol is interfering with your daily life, relationships, or work, and you struggle to control your drinking despite attempts to cut back, it might be time to consider alcohol treatment. Signs that someone may need help include frequent cravings, drinking more than intended, binge drinking, a family history of heavy drinking, alcohol withdrawal symptoms when they stop drinking, and experiencing negative consequences due to alcohol use.
There are several types of treatment programs for alcohol addiction. Inpatient or residential treatment involves staying at a treatment facility where you receive 24/7 care. Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) offer intensive treatment during the day while you return home in the evenings. Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) provide flexible treatment that allows you to maintain daily responsibilities while attending therapy sessions several times a week.
Detox is the process of removing alcohol from your body and managing withdrawal symptoms safely. It’s sometimes the first step in treating alcoholism because it helps stabilize you physically and mentally. Whether detox is necessary depends on your level of addiction and overall health.
To prepare for alcohol addiction treatment, start by gathering important documents and personal items you'll need. Arrange for time off from work or other responsibilities and let family or friends know about your plans for support. It’s also helpful to set personal goals for your recovery and be ready to commit to the treatment process.
[1] Medline Plus. (2010). Alcohol. Medlineplus.gov; National Library of Medicine. https://medlineplus.gov/alcohol.html on September 17, 2024
[2] Oscar-Berman, M., & Marinkovic, K. (2003). Alcoholism and the Brain: An Overview. PubMed Central (PMC). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6668884/ on September 17, 2024
[3] Abuse, N. I. on D. (n.d.). Alcohol. National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/alcohol on September 17, 2024
[4] Neuroscience: The Brain in Addiction and Recovery | National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). (2023, September 22). https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/health-professionals-communities/core-resource-on-alcohol/neuroscience-brain-addiction-and-recovery on September 17, 2024
[5] National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2021). Alcohol’s Effects on the Body. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA); NIAAA. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohols-effects-bodyon September 17, 2024
[6] National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2023). Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in the United States: Age Groups and Demographic Characteristics. Www.niaaa.nih.gov. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohol-topics/alcohol-facts-and-statistics/alcohol-use-disorder-aud-united-states-age-groups-and-demographic-characteristicson September 17, 2024
[7] World Health Organization. (2024, June 28). Alcohol. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/alcohol on September 17, 2024
[8] Newman, R. K., Stobart, M. A., & Gomez, A. E. (2024, February 14). Alcohol withdrawal. Nih.gov; StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441882/ on September 17, 2024
[9] Temperance Movement: Lower Alcohol Use and Avoid Delirium Tremens. (n.d.). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/25052-delirium-tremens on September 17, 2024