Can Treatment Cure Chronic Alcoholism?
Alcoholism is a chronic and relapsing brain disease – one that can be treated, but never entirely cured. What can be exactly done to battle alcohol abuse?
Alcoholism is a complex, baffling, and extremely prevalent brain disease according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, roughly 14.5 million Americans over the age of 12 suffer from a diagnosable alcohol use disorder. Men tend to suffer from alcoholism at higher rates than women – 9 million men and 5.5 million women across the country are diagnosed with an alcohol abuse disorder during any given year. Because social drinking is such a major part of American culture, it is often difficult for people to determine whether or not they are suffering at the hands of a diagnosable alcohol use disorder.
Some people believe that even though they drink heavily, and even though drinking might cause some consequences in their life, they can still stop anytime they want. Others believe that people should mind their own business and let them have a good time if that’s what they want to do. Regardless of the reasons why people continued drinking excessively, alcohol consumption contributes to over 3 million untimely deaths on an annual basis.
Does Alcohol Treatment Lead to Lasting Sobriety?
Excessive alcohol use remains the leading cause of accidental death throughout the US and the third leading cause of death overall. If you or someone you know has been drinking excessively, it is important to determine whether or not a diagnosable alcohol use disorder is present – and if it is, it is crucial to seek professional treatment right away.
Can Alcoholism Be Cured Through Rehab?
Alcoholism is a chronic and relapsing brain disease – one that can be treated, but never entirely cured. For sobriety to be maintained an individual must continue with his or her program of recovery, which generally includes involvement in a 12-step program including regular meeting attendance and either actively working through the 12 steps with a sponsor or helping other people work through the 12 steps, a continuation of any therapeutic intervention that is needed, and any medications that are required.
Getting Sober Through a Treatment Program
For example, if an individual was put on an antidepressant medication while in inpatient treatment for alcohol addiction, it will be crucial that he or she stays on this medication long after treatment concludes to avoid a relapse. Well, what is the point of treatment if it is not a cure for alcoholism? If people can stay sober by using the 12 steps, can’t they just avoid attending rehab altogether? Alcoholism is a disease of the physical body, the mind, and the spirit. It affects all areas of life deeply and severely.
For an individual to thoroughly recover, he or she must undergo intensive care that tackles the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual implications of active alcoholism. This intensive work must always be done in a professionally monitored and facilitated setting – like inpatient alcohol rehab, intensive outpatient treatment, or outpatient treatment. Entering into a program of recovery is the very first step on every lifelong journey of healing.
Evoke Waltham and Alcohol Addiction Recovery
At Evoke Waltham, we offer a wide range of effective and comprehensive treatment options for men and women of all ages who have been struggling with alcohol abuse or dependence. Even though there is no known cure for alcoholism, there are many effective treatment options available. Many men and women who were once in the throes of a life-threatening alcohol abuse disorder have gone on to get sober and lead the healthy and productive lives they deserve. however, the people who are in this position did not get there without ample hard work and determination – and every journey of sobriety begins with entry into a reputable and effective treatment program.
At Evoke Waltham, we understand that the traditional, multi-phased continuum of clinical care is not appropriate for every individual case of alcohol abuse or dependence. For this reason, we have developed a treatment program that focuses on providing our clients with the treatment they need exactly when they need it, whether that be over the phone, virtually, or in person. To learn more about our unique and effective alcohol abuse and addiction treatment program, or to begin on your journey of lifelong healing, get in touch with us at your earliest possible convenience.
