Alcohol dependence is a chronic condition in which a person cannot control their alcohol consumption despite the risks. Recognizing the signs of alcohol dependence, understanding the long-term effects of alcohol addiction, and knowing when to seek treatment are critical steps in addressing this issue.
If you or a loved one needs the support of alcohol rehab in Texas, Promises Right Step is here to guide you on your path to sobriety. We provide inpatient and outpatient care as well as gender-specific treatment programs. To ensure you feel supported throughout your recovery journey, we also offer an alumni program. Give us a call at 17135283709 to speak to one of our friendly staff members about embarking on a sober lifestyle with help from our addiction treatment programs.
How to Recognize Alcohol Dependence
If you are unsure whether your or someone else’s drinking patterns are worthy of concern, consider the following signs of alcohol dependence:
- Increased tolerance – This refers to needing to drink larger amounts of alcohol to achieve the same level of intoxication. Your body has built up a tolerance to your usual amount, so you need more or stronger drinks to get the same buzz.
- Inability to moderate consumption – You might have trouble limiting the amount of alcohol you consume or how often you drink. For example, even if you tell yourself you will only have two drinks at a party, it often turns into more.
- Alcohol cravings – You may feel strong and persistent urges to drink alcohol.
- Neglecting responsibilities – This can include calling out of work often because you are hungover, failing to take care of household duties or child care, or missing out on important family or social events.
- Withdrawal symptoms – When you do not drink, you experience withdrawal symptoms like tremors, sweating, nausea, vomiting, and anxiety.
It is important to know how to spot alcohol dependence in yourself so you will know if your drinking behavior is problematic. It can be a little trickier to recognize alcohol dependence in another person, though, because some people with drinking problems attempt to hide their consumption.
Long-Term Effects of Alcohol Dependence
If you do not seek help for alcohol dependence, you run the risk of long-term side effects like:
- Liver disease
- Cardiovascular problems
- Cognitive impairment
- Anxiety
- Depression
Long-term alcohol dependence can also shorten your lifespan and decrease your quality of life.
Treating Alcohol Dependence
If you discover that you or a loved one is showing signs of alcohol dependence, it is best to seek treatment as soon as possible. Although you may be tempted to quit alcohol on your own, going cold turkey can be dangerous for some people, particularly those with severe alcohol addiction. When you enroll in alcohol addiction treatment, you have the advantage of the following:
Detoxification
As alcohol leaves your system, your body will go through various uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. As mentioned, this can be life-threatening in severe cases and lead to intense withdrawal, known as delirium tremens or DTs, causing potential seizures or coma.
When you choose professional addiction treatment, your care team will provide supervision and help keep you safe and more comfortable.
Medication
Certain medications will play a crucial role in your recovery from alcohol dependence. They can minimize alcohol cravings and reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms.
Counseling
Attending one-on-one and group therapy sessions can help you modify your attitude and behavior related to alcohol use. You will also learn strategies for addressing cravings and triggers to drink.
Get Help for Alcohol Dependence by Calling Promises Right Step
Alcohol dependence can be detrimental to your health, but with the right support and treatment, recovery is possible. If you or someone you know struggles with alcohol dependence, reaching out for help is the first step toward regaining control and improving overall well-being. Contact Promises Right Step at 17135283709 to start paving your way to a sober future.
