Alcoholism and Treatment in Albuquerque – (919) 267-1662

Drug Detox Centers Albuquerque offers treatment for alcoholism, which is a growing problem in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that 24.9 percent of individuals in the country had at least one heavy drinking day during the past year. Twenty ­nine thousand people died of alcohol ­related deaths in 2013, including both accidents and homicides. Like other addictions alcoholism changes brain chemistry and structure. Professional treatment, such as at Drug Detox Centers Albuquerque, can help individuals regain control over their alcohol addiction and return to normal function.

Heavy Drinking and Alcoholism

The line between regular, heavy drinking and alcoholism is a fine one. Incidents of binge drinking or heavy drinking episodes are considered an alcohol use disorder that may require treatment. These episodes can often lead to loss of job, broken relationships, legal problems and other negative effects that are characteristic of addiction. Drug Detox Centers Albuquerque provides professional treatment programs that help individual understand the motivations behind their alcohol abuse and how to gain new skills to overcome cravings for alcohol. At Drug Detox Centers Albuquerque, patients can detox from alcohol safely and begin a comprehensive treatment program that addresses their individual needs.

Getting Treatment for Alcoholism

In many cases, people don’t think they have a problem with alcohol addiction. Alcohol use is so prevalent in American culture that episodes of heavy drinking or binge drinking are almost considered normal. But when problems begin to occur because of alcohol use, such as being unable to get to work, getting stopped for a DUI or aggressive behavior that leads to arrest, an addiction has developed that can undermine all your efforts to maintain control. Professional treatment is needed to break the physical dependence on alcohol, and intensive therapy can aid in developing new behaviors to manage alcohol cravings.

The Treatment Process

Like other drugs, alcohol changes the chemistry of the brain. Professional treatment begins with detox, which removes alcohol from the body so that normal chemistry can be restored. Because withdrawal symptoms can be severe, medication may be needed to prevent serious reactions or medical problems. After detox, comprehensive therapy helps to provide insights on underlying problems, and addiction education helps train individuals to deal with their problems on a long- term basis. A holistic approach can offer the best chance of success in recovery, with art therapy, yoga, meditation, group counseling and cognitive behavioral training to change thought patterns and institute new behaviors that provide more positive outcomes.

Managing Addiction After Treatment

Getting treatment for alcoholism is not the end of the problem. Individuals must implement strategies on a daily basis to deal with stress, manage cravings and maintain sobriety. Relapse prevention techniques are a critical part of an effective treatment program. In addition, attendance at support group meetings and ongoing counseling sessions can help these individuals stay sober over the long term. Health agencies like the National Institute on Drug Abuse notes that relapse is likely with addiction, as it is with any chronic disease. It is only an indication that further events to learn to control the illness are necessary.

Drug Detox Centers Albuquerque understands the unique problems of individuals struggling with alcoholism. Detox and comprehensive therapies can help these patients to learn to deal with stresses and cravings, so they can rebuild normal lives in sobriety. Learn more by calling (919) 267-1662 today!