Alcoholism

By : B. Steele


While many people still try and define addicts as different from alcoholics, the fact of the matter is that the definition of addiction or alcoholism is almost identical. Maintaining a belief that addiction is a disease of the brain and understanding the other aspects associated with addiction and alcoholism speaks to what needs to be provided in drug rehab programs. The most effective course of treatment lies in entering a drug rehab, addiction treatment center or facility for the treatment of alcoholism. This treatment should be matched to the alcoholic’s particular set of needs. It should also be the alcoholic’s decision to comply with the addiction treatment or alcoholism treatment regimen.

Since the medical profession has come to see drug addiction and alcoholism as primarily the same disease, there is little difference in drug addiction or alcoholism treatment. It is important to state, that the recognition that drug addiction or alcoholism is a brain disease does not mean that the addict is simply a victim. There is no shortcut in overcoming alcoholism and drug addiction. The speed of the alcoholic’s progress is directly proportionate to the commitment and effort he or she puts in.

Alcoholics as well as addicts are told to give up trying to use their own power, to admit powerlessness and depend on a higher power to help them. This is the twelve-step approach to getting an alcoholic to stop using and maintain himself or herself in a state of recovery. It is probably the most respected alcohol abuse program offered in the world, although it is no guarantee of success. Associating with other alcoholics can help the patient out of denial and into striving for recovery. Denial is absolutely the biggest problem with alcoholism as well as other addictions. Hearing similar stories to their own is often illuminating in this regard.

Symptoms of the disease include but are not limited to sneaking drinks, lying about the amount consumed, irritability when alcohol is not available, mood swings, loss of appetite, a puffiness of the face, job loss and a high number of accidents or traffic tickets. Alcoholism signs can also include the inability to remember portions of the events of the previous evening or feeling anxious in a social situation where alcohol is not available. If the warning signs of alcoholism help create interest in exploring possible alcohol addiction and finding help, the good news is that help is available.

Studies on the disease have shown that there are a number of factors that can cause alcoholism, which can be psychological, social, genetic or physiological. There are many steps a person can take to cope with the alcoholism of a loved one and there are support groups that focus on helping people in this type of situation. After the person is no longer exhibiting any symptoms associated with withdrawal, they may then be transitioned to the alcoholism rehab or alcoholism treatment level of care. Due to the many medical and psychiatric issues associated with recovery from alcoholism, initial treatment should begin in an alcoholism rehab or alcoholism treatment center, specializing in the treatment of alcoholism.

Copyright © 2007 B. Steele

B. Steele is a realtor in Nevada and a contributing editor for http://www.Best-Free-Help.com She has worn many hats during her career-mostly in sales of some kind. Among her work experiences she lists: retail fashion owner, restaurant owner, sales manager at a weekly newspaper, etc. She enjoys working with the public and training other sales people. Visit: BEST-FREE-HELP.com Today!

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