Alcoholism Treatment Programs in Minneapolis, MN

Alcoholism is a growing problem in the United States and around the world. The National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism reports that over 86% of adults in the United States have consumed alcohol at some point in their lives. While not a cause for concern in itself, 24.6% of these adults have engaged in binge drinking in the last month alone.

Alcoholism treatment is needed to help people manage and treat their substance abuse and dependence issues. There are a variety of alcoholism treatment programs available at Minneapolis Drug Treatment Centers. Their medical experts and addiction specialists work together to form the most comprehensive and effective treatment plans available. They cater to the specific needs of each patient, ensuring they have the best chance of achieving and maintaining long term sobriety.

To find out more about numerous alcoholism treatment programs, call an addiction specialist at (877) 804-1531.

What is Alcoholism?

Alcoholism is a chronic progressive disease. Alcoholics often have trouble controlling their drinking, and many use it as a way to feel better or self-medicate. Many alcoholics become preoccupied with alcohol and have to drink more for the same effect. Alcoholism is an obsessive desire to drink regardless of the negative consequences.

Alcoholics often display a pattern of increasing their alcohol abuse over time. Factors such as binge drinking, blackouts, and losing complete control over one's actions are also all common among alcoholics.

Signs and Symptoms of Dependence

There are a number of signs and symptoms that the vast majority of alcoholics experience. Chief among these is an intense, constant craving for alcohol. Many people in the earlier stages of addiction are alarmed by this craving and attempt to quit drinking on their own. Relapses, without the aid of an alcoholism treatment program, are very common.

Alcoholics also often find it all but impossible to stop drinking after a couple of drinks. The notion of having a "few beers" is thrown out the window. Many alcoholics can't stop drinking until they physically pass out. When alcoholism gets to this stage, it often starts to affect the person's relationships. Family members and friends notice the loss of control. Work performance also frequently suffers as a result of addiction.

Difference from Alcohol Abuse

Though closely related, there are some key differences between alcoholism and alcohol abuse. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, alcohol abuse is a pattern of drinking that falls short of chronic disease or addiction. However, it does greatly negatively impact the person's health, relationships, and ability to work. It also easily leads to addiction. Those that abuse alcohol often fail to fulfill major responsibilities, drink in dangerous situations, and get into legal problems related to drinking.

Alcoholism Treatment

Fortunately for those suffering from alcoholism, much more is known about the disease today than in the past. This increased understanding means that there are more treatment options available than ever before. Though many people are able to admit themselves into a treatment program, other alcoholics aren't able to do so until they experience an intervention from friends or family.

Most alcoholism treatment programs start with a closely monitored medical detox. In serious cases, specific medications may be administered to reduce the potentially painful and dangerous symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. After detox, the patient is placed into an individual or group therapy program. These programs aim to equip the patient with the skills they need to build a positive life and resist relapse for the long term.

There is absolutely no shame in attending a recovery program for alcoholism. Both alcoholism and alcohol abuse are very hard to overcome by yourself. A treatment program makes the process that much easier, safer, and longer lasting.

For more information regarding alcoholism and treatment programs, call Minneapolis Drug Treatment Centers at (877) 804-1531 .