Alcohol is the most commonly used addictive substance in the United States. It is also one of the most dangerous. Casual drinking can easily turn into dependence, with many people unaware they have a problem until it’s too late.
Alcohol Addiction Risk Factors
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), a person’s risk for developing alcohol use disorder (AUD) “depends, in part, on how much, how often, and how quickly they consume alcohol.” Binge drinking and heavy alcohol use can increase the risk of AUD.
The NIAAA also points to other risk factors, which can include drinking at an early age, as well as genetics and family history. Mental health disorders and a history of trauma can also have an effect on AUD development.
Alcohol Addiction Signs and Risks
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) lists indicators of “risky drinking” that include the inability to cut down on alcohol use, legal problems, and having to drink more than you once did to get the same effect.
There are also a wide variety of short and long-term health risks associated with alcohol use. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these health risks can include:
- High blood pressures
- Heart disease
- Liver problems
- Weakened immune system
- Mental health problems
Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal
Often, an individual may be experiencing alcohol withdrawal without even realizing it. These withdrawal symptoms can begin anywhere from a few hours to a day or two after having your last drink. According to SAMHSA, alcohol withdrawal symptoms can include “shakiness, sweating, tremors, headaches, anxiety, irritability, and/or insomnia.”
Alcohol Addiction Treatment at The Guest House
Depending on the severity of alcohol dependence, detox or medication may be needed. Even after a medical detox, it’s a good idea to continue treatment in an outpatient setting as your mind and body adjust to your new alcohol-free state.
Inpatient Detox
Detox may be the first step in healing your body from alcohol addiction. At The Guest House, we provide a safe space for our clients as alcohol toxins are cleansed from the body. Our modern amenities and private rooms will help you feel comfortable during this first stage of treatment.
Outpatient Care
Outpatient care is for both those who have just completed detox as well as individuals with less-serious alcohol dependence. Addiction is a physical and mental struggle, so it’s important to have a plan in place well after you overcome the symptoms of withdrawal.
At The Guest House, we provide a large variety of outpatient treatment modalities to help you explore the deeper root of your addiction. We offer traditional therapies as well as holistic programs to help you heal your mind, body, and soul.
Alcohol addiction is the most common substance use disorder in the United States. Unfortunately, many people who use alcohol may not even know they have developed a dependence. At The Guest House, we treat alcohol use disorder at every level. We offer top-level amenities to help you feel comfortable through medical detox, along with a variety of therapies after detox is completed. We believe in the power of having many different tools at your disposal, allowing you to find the modalities that work best for you along your journey of recovery. For more information, call us at (855) 483-7800.