Alcoholism Treatment in Fort Lee NJ
Alcoholism is a progressive and chronic disease where people have problems controlling the amount and frequency of drinking, a preoccupation with alcohol, continuing drinking despite the problems it causes, needing more alcohol to obtain the same effects (physical dependence) and withdrawal symptoms occurring when lessening or abruptly stopping drinking. People with alcoholism can't anticipate quantities of drinking, the duration of drinking or the resulting consequences. Alcoholism treatment is needed for sustained sobriety.
Alcoholism treatment in residential rehab centers is available for those who need to get help stopping alcohol consumption and staying sober. For help finding treatment centers, contact Drug Treatment Centers Fort Lee at (877) 804-1531.
History of Alcoholism in the United States
In the United States, alcoholism treatment was not an option and mass production of whiskey led to widespread drinking problems. These were the catalysts for Alcohol Prohibition, laws in effect from 1919 to 1933. These laws banned the manufacture and sale of alcohol. It did not prevent drinking, but did support the rise in organized crime who sold alcohol illegally. Prohibition was repealed in 1933.
In modern times, there are new and innovative treatment approaches to alcoholism. Alcoholism treatment methods are constantly developing new and more effective treatment therapies for those addicted to alcohol.
Alcohol Abuse VS. Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol abuse is drinking alcohol without developing alcohol dependence. Alcohol addiction is dependence upon alcohol.
Alcohol abuse can occur in response to stressful events or as tolerance develops, the person drinks more alcohol to get the same effects, sometimes resulting in blackouts.
Binge drinking is alcohol abuse and alcoholism is alcohol addiction.
When someone is addicted to alcohol, it is difficult for them to recognize they have a severe problem and need treatment. Loved ones can stage an intervention. In this meeting, the abuser and the loved ones discuss how alcohol has directly caused negative consequences to the drinker and the rest of the group. The goal is for the drinker to make the connection, agree they need help and enter into treatment.
Alcoholism Treatment and Detox
Residential treatment starts with a medically supervised detox to eliminate all toxins and alcohol in the body by using doctor prescribed medications. Withdrawal symptoms from alcohol without medication can be severe, painful and sometimes death can occur. A medical detox is necessary to avoid health complications or dying.
After detox, various therapies begin. Psychotherapy, group meetings, behavioral therapy are conducted. Other therapeutic methods such as music, yoga, art, family meetings and biofeedback are conducted to maintain sobriety.
Antabuse (Disulfiram), a prescription medication, may be administered under a doctor's care. It's purpose is to help a person overcome alcohol abuse, but it is not a cure. It does discourage a recovering alcohol abuser from drinking by making alcohol uncomfortable to consume. Severe hangover effects are felt immediately after drinking alcohol, discouraging drinking.
Alcoholism Dangers
Drinking heavily gradually takes a toll on an addict's health. Many dangerous effects of alcoholism exist, here are some of the more serious complications:
- Alcoholic hepatitis is a serious liver inflammation. It may also destroy or scar liver tissue (cirrhosis).
- Dementia is caused by long term alcohol abuse and causes defects within the nervous system leading to disorientation, confusion, short term memory loss and dementia.
- Cancer has been associated with the long term use of alcohol with higher rates of mouth, throat, liver and colon cancer being recorded.
Finding Help Near You
Alcoholism is treatable with the proper drug rehabilitation program. If you or a loved one are searching for effective treatment for alcoholism, call Drug Treatment Centers Fort Lee at (877) 804-1531. We can help you find drug and alcohol treatment centers.