Despite many medical proofs linking alcohol consumption to various health risks, people are still regularly consuming high levels of it. Alcohol is the most accessible and most commonly used substance in a large number of world countries. If constantly repeated during a certain amount of time, even moderate drinking can lead to serious, chronic health and life issues. The effects of excessive drinking can be highly destructive not only for the users but also for the people around them. Users will try very hard to mask the problem, but their behavior will change over time until it gets out of control. Some people are able to overcome addiction on their own, but most people with AUD need help from alcohol hotline number at AddictionResource.com and other experts.
Unfortunately, an extremely high number of alcohol-related cases of violence and accidents is a clear signal that social awareness needs to be raised on a much higher level. In order to change negative associations, expressions such as “alcoholism” or “alcohol dependence” were gradually replaced with term Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). This is a medical diagnosis for “chronic relapsing brain disease characterized by compulsive alcohol use, loss of control over alcohol intake, and a negative emotional state when not using”. To determine the existence of AUD, individuals have to be assessed on certain criteria, usually with Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) developed by the World Health Organization (WHO). This screening tool can be used to assess drinking patterns, behaviors, and to point to harmful alcohol use.
The consequences of alcohol misuse can be the major cause of many diseases, with subacute or chronic outcomes. The list is full of extremely serious conditions and some of them are often recognized as characteristic for people with AUD: liver disease, cirrhosis, neuropathy, pancreatitis, atrial fibrillation, cardiomyopathy, gastrointestinal cancer, morbidity, and anemia are just a few of them. People suffering from alcohol withdrawal can experience seizures, arrhythmias, delirium tremens, anxiety attacks, and depression. Due to an increased number of problems with personal relationships, employment and finances these people are at high risk of attempting and completing suicide. AUD has also been associated with frequent injuries and repeated violence.
Information and knowledge are crucial and can make a difference for people with AUD and their families and friends. Suspicions and concern can be confirmed and advice on how to proceed can be asked from any alcohol hotline 24-hour available service. Therapists and counselors who answer calls and e-mails are trained to help anyone, affected by alcohol abuse.
There are many ways to treat AUD and each case demand a separate approach. Recovery should be based on assessments made by professionals. For example, some people will find medications most helpful, while others will benefit from behavioral therapy.
However, some steps and technics are the same and applicable to every case of AUD. It could be one or a set of decisions to make radical or small life changes in order to quit drinking and start with the treatment.
Deciding to stop drinking is the first, very personal and extremely difficult step in the recovery process. Before making this decision, the addict has to recognize the problem and commit to resolving. Denial and hesitation can be the largest obstacles to start with sobriety. If so, the person can contact AA helpline, and get support from people who recovered from AUD. For those who feel overwhelmed, helplines are probably the best option as recovered people have experience and knowledge and are capable to understand the struggle. Writing down reasons for quitting can be another very helpful tactic. It’s essential to include negative consequences and drinking disadvantages, as well as to mention good things such as family, health and better quality of life. This list can be an excellent reminder during some critical moments.
Joining a support group can significantly increase chances for a full recovery. Opportunity to meet other people who understand and support the efforts can be a life-changing experience. Groups such as
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and similar communities are intended for people who struggle with alcohol abuse or addiction. This is a self-help organized system, a fellowship of people who finished their recovery process and those who are on their way to sobriety. AA groups usually have non-stop available AA hotline phone number, as an additional way of support for people who feel insecure and afraid of relapse.
Detoxication is another way of fighting with AUD and very important stage of the recovery process. Uncontrolled detox procedure can end with serious health problems. It’s important to execute it safely and under adequate medical supervision. Some people don’t feel comfortable to share this experience with others but in some cases, detoxication can cause seizures, nausea or even delirium tremens, which is a deadly condition if left untreated. If users are wondering whom to contact to start detoxication procedure, alcohol abuse helplines can recommend doctors or clinics specialized in alcohol detoxication and recovery. An open relationship with doctors is crucial and necessary, and honest communication will enable enough information for specialists to determine which treatment will be most suitable for each patient individually.
Removing alcohol from home is another important change, helpful for lowering the number of drinking triggers. People who already started with the recovery process should avoid places, such as bars, where people usually go to socialize and drink. Also, they should reach for friends who don’t drink and will gladly spend time doing things that are not necessarily related to alcohol consummation.
Adding physical activity to the list of life changes to beat alcohol addiction is highly recommended. Frequent exercising can reduce stress and help with urges and cravings, especially outdoor running and martial arts. Yoga and meditation will reduce anxious energy, restore balance and improve emotional health.
People with AUD should be encouraged to seek help and support, and to talk openly about their feelings and achievements. Furthermore, sharing stories about successful recovery can be an inspiration to others, while a recovered person will be proud and feel useful for the community.
